Improve Your Vehicle’s Performance with a Fuel System Cleaning
Most drivers know that gas and diesel-powered vehicles burn fuel to generate the power needed to drive down the road. But did you know fuel leaves a residue behind as it moves through the fuel system? Over time, this residue can cause some major issues. Read on to learn more about how this affects your vehicle and why fuel system cleaning is so important.
Understanding the Fuel System
The fuel system consists of several parts: the gas tank, fuel injectors, fuel filter, fuel lines, fuel pumps, spark plugs, and a variety of sensors. The fuel injectors are small valves that are responsible for controlling the proper fuel-to-air ratio in the engine. If the fuel injectors become too dirty or clogged, it restricts how they function, as well as the flow of fuel through the system.
In addition, carbon from combustion starts to accumulate on your valves, inside the combustion chamber, and on your pistons. This interferes with the proper mixing of fuel and air and prevents your valves from sealing properly. This results in less power, excessive fuel consumption, and poor performance. Over time, it can even lead to expensive damage.
What is a Fuel System Cleaning?
A fuel system cleaning clears out the gum and varnish from your fuel system and gets your fuel injectors working properly. The carbon deposits are dissolved, allowing your engine to run like new again. During a fuel system cleaning, we inspect your system for any leaks or damage. Then we put a special cleaning additive in your gas tank and run a second chemical through the engine using a vacuum line attached to the fuel filter line.
Having your fuel system cleaned from time to time will help your car run efficiently, improve performance, increase fuel economy, and extend the life of your engine. How often you’ll need to do it depends on your vehicle. Most auto care experts recommend cleaning the fuel system every year or every 12,000 miles to prevent performance issues.
You can also check the manufacturer’s recommendations in your owner’s manual. Additionally, the fuel filter should be changed every 30,000 miles. If your fuel becomes contaminated, it’s best to have the fuel system flushed.
Signs You Need a Fuel System Cleaning
If your fuel system is dirty, you may not notice any issues early on. As the problem worsens, you may notice the following signs:
- A rough idle
- Decreased gas mileage
- The RPM needle moves sporadically
- Failed emissions test
- Loss of performance
- Engine stuttering, sputtering, or stalling
- Engine misfires
- A lag in acceleration
Visit EuroCar Service for Comprehensive Auto Repair & Maintenance
If you’ve noticed your engine seems less responsive or any of the above issues, you may need a fuel system cleaning. Your service advisor would be happy to help you find out when the service was last performed and whether your car is due.
At EuroCar Service, we provide comprehensive auto repair & maintenance to help your vehicle perform its best. We specialize in all European makes and models, including Audi, BMW, Mercedes, Fiat, Land Rover, Smart Car, Saab, Jaguar, Volvo, Volkswagen, and Mini-Cooper. Contact us today at (206) 527-8828 or request an appointment online.
