Engine Flushing

What Is Engine Flush?

Natural aging of the engine, the use of improper fuel and engine oil, as well as irregular maintenance, are all leading causes which lead to the formation and accumulation of carbon deposits, sludge, and impurities inside the engine.

These harmful contaminants can significantly reduce your engine’s performance and shorten its lifespan, which is why engine flushing is highly recommended.

Engine flushing refers to the complete removal of all impurities from all internal components of the engine. This process is carried out using special chemical agents and under professional supervision to ensure that it is performed correctly and without risk to the engine.

The Process of Performing an Engine Flush

After reading the first paragraph, many of you might be wondering: how to use engine flush? However, this process is not recommended to be performed without proper knowledge and experience, as it can lead to serious engine damage.

The engine flushing process begins by adding a special cleaning agent to the existing engine oil, typically just before a routine oil change. After that, the engine is started and left to run for about 10 to 15 minutes, allowing the oil and cleaning solution to circulate through all internal components. 

During this time, the solution breaks down and loosens accumulated sludge, carbon deposits, and other impurities. Once the engine is turned off, the oil is drained along with all the dissolved contaminants.

Finally, the engine is refilled with fresh oil, and a new oil filter is installed, completing the flushing process.

The Benefits of an Engine Flush

• First and foremost, improved efficiency and extended engine life are the main benefits. By removing impurities from the engine, you allow the engine oil to flow freely to the important internal components, protecting your engine and helping it run more reliably.

• With unrestricted oil circulation, the engine runs more smoothly and, as a result, consumes less fuel.

• A clean engine produces fewer harmful emissions, contributing to a better environment.

• For all buyers of used vehicles who did not receive the service history of the purchased car, this process reduces the risk of engine damage and costly repairs, potentially saving you a lot of expenses in the future.

When should you consider Engine Flushing?

The appearance of the check engine and oil warning lights are the first visible signs that something is wrong. The check engine light comes on when sludge or improper oil circulation damages components and sensors, while the oil warning light indicates low oil level or low oil pressure. Both are often caused by sludge buildup in the engine.

Every old and rarely used vehicle falls victim to the buildup of sludge and carbon deposits. These deposits can accumulate inside the engine, affecting its performance and reliability. Regular engine flushing can help remove these harmful deposits and restore engine health. 

If you notice that your car is consuming more fuel than usual, it is most often a sign of sludge accumulation in the engine. Sludge hinders the normal operation of the engine, forcing it to work harder and longer, which leads to increased fuel consumption.

Lastly, the buildup of impurities leads to increased friction between the moving engine components. This friction generates heat, which can cause the engine to overheat.

Common Myths and Misconceptions

Engine Flushing Will Damage Seals and Gaskets

The first thought many people have is that engine flush chemicals are too harsh and will easily corrode seals and gaskets. This is not true, as reputable engine flush products are specifically designed with the safety of these components in mind. By using the correct products and following the instructions, there should be no issues. 

Regular Oil Changes Make Engine Flushing Unnecessary

Regular engine oil change alone is not enough to keep your engine healthy, as over time, impurities accumulate inside the engine that cannot be fully removed with a standard oil change. Processes such as engine flushing and decarbonization allow for a thorough cleaning of the engine’s internal components, improving oil flow, reducing friction, and extending the engine’s lifespan.

This is why it’s highly recommended to pair up decarbonisation (and engine flushing) with your regular, yearly oil change. This will ensure clean intake and compression as well as the exhaust systems.

Engine Flushing is Only for Older Cars

Older vehicles benefit the most from these treatments, as sludge and carbon deposits tend to accumulate over the years. However, newer vehicles are not completely immune either, especially if the owner is using low-quality fuel, neglecting oil changes or rarely driving the vehicle. That’s why preventive measures such as engine flushing and decarbonization are especially useful for maintaining long-term efficiency in old a in new cars.