The Hidden Costs Of DIY Fuel System Cleaning: 3 Reasons To Go Pro

DIY fuel system cleaning kits seem too good to be true, promising horsepower increases, improved fuel economy, and extended engine life, all for just a few bucks and a minute or two of work.

But do they really work, or are fuel system cleanings best left to the pros?

Read on to learn about the risks and hidden costs that come with DIY fuel system cleaning kits, or contact your local TIRECRAFT to get a free quote on pro fuel system cleaning straight away.

Part I: Do Vehicles Really Need Fuel System Cleaning?

Your fuel injector is the beating heart of your engine, and like all engine parts, it needs to be serviced on a regular basis. The fact that most modern gasoline is formulated with engine-cleaning detergent additives does not change that.

Indeed, your fuel system requires more frequent cleanings than other components because it is naturally exposed to blow-by heat, carbon, and oil, plus dirt, rust, and other debris. As these contaminants and combustion byproducts build up, fuel system performance drops off, and the risks of serious malfunctions increase.

To keep your fuel system working like new, technicians will submerge and actuate your fuel injectors in a concentrated solvent, then clean it out using ultrasonic vibration, a high-pressure reverse-flow solvent stream, and a media blasting to the injectors’ bodies. Finally, all seals, O-rings, and nozzle covers will be replaced. Most experts recommend booking a fuel system cleaning after approximately 40,000km of driving.

Part II: Do DIY Fuel System Cleaning Kits Work?

While there is plenty of research bearing out the value of professional fuel system cleanings, the same cannot be said of DIY kits. In fact, fuel system cleaning kit tests by MotorTrend showed no improvement in the test car after using a popular brand of pour-in cleaner.

“The problem with pour-in fuel injector cleaners can be two-fold,” writes MotorTrend researchers. “Effective injector cleaning requires stronger chemicals than can legally be sold in stores for use with emissions-controlled vehicles, and stubborn deposits simply must be dealt with by force.”

That said, some cleaning kits may be able to decarbonize valves and cylinders, especially with the intake. But that is not enough to justify their use, especially when you consider their hidden costs.

Part III: The Hidden Costs Of DIY Fuel System Cleaning Kits

1. DIY fuel system cleaning kits can put your warranty at risk. According to the Honda warranty guide, “the use of fuel additives, or fuel injector cleaners, is not part of the recommended maintenance schedule and is not required.” Many manufacturer’s warranties strictly prohibit their use and warn that any damage caused by these additives will not be covered.

2. DIY fuel system cleaning kits can cause damage to your engine. While most DIY cleaning kits will not pose a risk, as long as they are used appropriately, certain products use corrosive agents that can cause damage to the fuel pump or tank lining, leading to leaks and reduced engine performance. If you insist on using a DIY cleaner kit, run it by your local TIRECRAFT tech first—it’s free to do so, and a few minutes of due diligence could save you thousands of dollars in repairs.

3. DIY fuel system cleaning kits cost time and money. Though they typically only cost $10 to $50, you’ll also need to make time to research, purchase, and use your DIY kit. And while it’s not going to break the bank or steal hours from your schedule, that’s still your money and your time, and there are better things to spend it on than snakeoil!

Go Pro With TIRECRAFT: Get A Free Quote On Fuel System Cleaning

If you want to avoid the hidden costs and engine health risks that come with DIY fuel system cleaning kits, go pro with TIRECRAFT! We offer professional fuel system cleanings for all vehicle types; we stand behind all of our work with a 1-year / 20,000km warranty; and every quote is 100% free!

References

Munnell, L. (2011, June 9). Fuel system cleaners: Fact or fiction. MotorTrend.

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