Carbon Buildup: What Causes It and How to Prevent It

Carbon buildup is a common issue that can affect the performance and fuel efficiency of your car engine. The buildup occurs when unburned fuel and other byproducts accumulate on the internal engine components. This includes intake valves, a combustion chamber and spark plugs. This buildup can cause issues such as misfires, rough idle, reduced power and increased fuel consumption.

Fortunately, there are several methods to remove carbon, ranging from using specialised cleaning products to performing engine decarbonisation.

Following, we will explore what carbon buildup is and how to effectively remove it from your car engine to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

1. WHAT CAUSES CARBON BUILDUP IN ENGINE

Oil filters are more like kidneys in a human body. They have a series of valves called bypass valves. Fake oil filters often have faulty or inefficient bypass valves and so if the filter becomes clogged or even blocked, the bypass valves which are the alternative passages do not let the oil through. This exposes vital engine parts to damage.

INCOMPLETE COMBUSTION

The incomplete combustion of fuel is the primary cause of carbon buildup in a car engine. During the combustion process, the fuel is burned to produce energy that powers the engine. However, if the combustion is incomplete, unburned fuel leaves behind carbon deposits. Over time, these deposits can accumulate on the engine components, leading to reduced performance and other issues.

LOW-QUALITY FUEL

Using low-quality fuel is another common cause of carbon buildup in a car engine. Poor-quality fuel may contain impurities or additives that can contribute to the formation of carbon deposits. It’s important to use high-quality fuel with fewer impurities and additives to help reduce the risk of carbon buildup.

LACK OF MAINTENANCE

A lack of maintenance is another contributing factor to carbon buildup in a car engine. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes, air filter replacement and fuel system cleaning, can help prevent carbon buildup by ensuring that the engine is running at optimal levels. Keep an eye on the symptoms that can tell you when to change the car air filter.

EGR SYSTEM FAILURE

The EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) system in a car engine helps reduce emissions by recirculating exhaust gas back into the engine. However, if you see the EGR system failure symptoms, it can lead to an increase in carbon buildup. This is because the exhaust gas that would normally be recirculated back into the engine is not being properly controlled, leading to increased deposits.

2. HOW TO PREVENT CARBON BUILDUP

Carbon buildup in your car’s engine is a common problem. This can also negatively affect its performance and longevity. Here are some ways to prevent or reduce carbon buildup:.

  • Use high-quality fuel: Opt for high-quality fuel that contains fewer impurities, which can minimise carbon buildup.
  • Change the oil and filter regularly: Regularly change your car’s oil and fuel filter to remove contaminants that contribute to carbon buildup.
  • Use fuel additives: Using fuel additives that can help dissolve carbon deposits and prevent further deposits.
  • Keep your car well-maintained: Maintain your vehicle regularly, including replacing spark plugs and air filters. Regular maintenance can decrease carbon.

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