0

Bad fuel economy and performance loss: What’s the reason?

Remember that feeling when you first drove off the car lot? That new car smell, the smooth acceleration... But over time, even with diligently following the dealership's recommended service schedule, you might notice your car isn't quite the same. It feels sluggish, and you're filling up the tank more often. If this sounds familiar, you're not alone.

Clogged fuel injectors and carbon deposit on valves

Let's compare the injectors and valves above with the wok. Aren't they look almost the same?

So, what's the culprit behind your car's sluggishness and thirst for fuel? Even with meticulous maintenance, there's one thing those dealership schedules often overlook: carbon deposits.

These deposits, a natural byproduct of combustion, gradually build up inside your engine. Over time, they can clog up crucial parts of your car's fuel system, hindering performance and efficiency.

Think of it like the black residue that forms under your mom's wok after a good stir-fry – except this buildup is happening inside your car's engine!

The wok that you can find in most Asian home

Ever wondered how those pesky carbon deposits impact your car? Let's break it down. Your car's fuel system – specifically the injectors and valves – are ground zero for this buildup. Here's what happens:

Injectors: Over time, carbon gunk can clog the tiny nozzle holes, messing up the fuel spray pattern. This means your engine isn't getting the optimal fuel mix, leading to incomplete combustion and wasted gas.

Valves: Carbon buildup on the valves prevents them from sealing properly, causing compression loss. This makes your engine work harder, guzzling more fuel just to get you going.

Spray pattern of a clogged versus a clean injector. Quiz time: Which one do you think it can burn more completely?
How gaps due to carbon deposits caused compression loss

Sure, you could ignore those subtle signs of power loss and higher fuel costs. But here's the hard truth: carbon buildup doesn't go away on its own. In fact, it gets worse over time. Those clogged injectors and leaky valves will only cause more damage, eventually leading to catastrophic engine failure.

The result? A hefty repair bill that could easily run into thousands – or even tens of thousands – of ringgit. Is saving a few bucks now really worth that kind of financial risk?

Forget the myths and gimmicks. At LMEM, we believe in scientifically-proven solutions that deliver real results. There are fuel additives are designed to combat carbon buildup at its source, keeping your engine clean, efficient, and running like new. The most common one is injection cleaner which even your car service centre will offer this to you.

DIY pouring injection cleaner into petrol fuel tank
DIY pouring valve cleaner into petrol fuel tank

Author's sharing: Years ago, my local brand car broke down. I've been driving it for many years and service on time. Yet clogged injectors were the main reason for this incident. The bill? Over RM4,000! I was forced to 'makan rumput' for weeks. That was a 'painful' experience!