Why Do Older Cars Need Carbon Deposit Cleaning?
2 Answers
Carbon deposits increase vehicle fuel consumption, wear out components, and in severe cases, can cause engine knocking. The methods for removing carbon deposits and the hazards of engine carbon buildup are introduced as follows: Methods for Removing Carbon Deposits: Using a drip-feed cleaning method: Cut off the fuel supply, connect a carbon cleaning agent to the engine fuel injector, and use the cleaning agent to soften the carbon deposits inside the engine so they are burned and emitted. This method is only suitable for mild carbon buildup. Disassembling and cleaning the engine intake manifold: Remove the engine intake manifold, scrape off stubborn carbon deposits, clean it, and then reassemble it. Hazards of Engine Carbon Deposits: Engine carbon deposits can reduce engine power and increase fuel consumption. In severe cases, they can cause engine knocking, acceleration noise, damage to pistons and crankshafts, and even lead to engine oil burning, requiring major repairs.
I've been driving my old car for almost ten years, and cleaning carbon deposits is a routine task. For older cars, carbon buildup on engine pistons and valves is common, mainly due to incomplete fuel combustion leaving behind residue. If not cleaned, the car's power will weaken, acceleration will feel sluggish, and fuel consumption will noticeably increase—costing an extra few dozen bucks a month in gas. In severe cases, the engine may shake, have trouble starting, or even suffer reduced lifespan. Cleaning carbon deposits every six months, either by using fuel additives or professional cleaning, can make the car run as smoothly as new. After all, older cars need careful maintenance—keeping them well-serviced can extend their life by several years, and the savings on repair costs make it worth the effort.
