What is the recommended interval for engine internal cleaning?
3 Answers
For new vehicles, it is generally recommended to perform an engine internal cleaning every 40,000-60,000 kilometers, and subsequently around every 30,000 kilometers depending on the situation. Below is some information about engine cleaning: 1. Hazards of infrequent cleaning: Not regularly using cleaning agents leads to increasingly thick carbon deposits, which can cause valves to not close tightly, resulting in decreased engine performance. Symptoms include rough acceleration, unstable idle, stalling, shaking, knocking, and a series of other faults, severely threatening the vehicle's lifespan. 2. Engine cylinder cleaning: The most common and simplest form of engine cleaning is cylinder cleaning. For new vehicles, this type of cleaning is generally recommended every 40,000-60,000 kilometers, and subsequently around every 30,000 kilometers depending on the situation. The operation for cylinder cleaning is relatively simple. The most common method is to add a cleaning agent to the old engine oil before maintenance, then start the car to let the engine clean itself through the piston's reciprocating motion. After a period, turn off the engine and follow the maintenance procedure to replace the engine oil and oil filter.
Hey, as someone who drives frequently, I believe the interval for engine internal cleaning isn't fixed—it entirely depends on how you use your car. If you do a lot of highway driving with smooth road conditions and the engine runs well, cleaning every 30,000 kilometers or every three to four years might suffice. But if you're stuck in city traffic daily with prolonged engine idling, leading to easier carbon buildup, it's best to check every 20,000 kilometers or annually. My old car taught me a lesson—after five years without cleaning, it suffered from sluggish acceleration and soaring fuel consumption. During repairs, severe carbon buildup was discovered. After cleaning, much of its power returned. Environmental factors also matter—driving in dusty areas means shortening the cleaning interval. I recommend consulting your owner's manual and adjusting based on your driving habits. Preventive maintenance is always better than waiting for problems to arise.
I'm quite particular about car maintenance, and engine cleaning is something I never take lightly. Based on my experience, a cleaning interval of every 20,000 to 30,000 kilometers or every two to three years is generally reasonable, but it depends on the engine's operating condition. For instance, if you mostly drive short distances where the engine doesn't fully warm up before stopping, oil deposits accumulate faster, and you might need an annual cleaning. I once owned a used car that showed improved fuel efficiency and smoother operation after a cleaning. Driving habits play a big role—if you frequently drive at high speeds or haul heavy loads, you'll need more frequent cleanings. Don’t forget to check the oil quality; using high-quality oil can reduce the need for cleaning. I recommend consulting a professional technician to assess your car's condition and create a maintenance plan. In the long run, this can extend your engine's lifespan and save you money.
