Q1. What is engine decarbonization?

A: Engine decarbonization as the name suggests can be a chemical or mechanical process where carbon deposits on the cylinder head, and on the pistons are removed to ensure better functioning of the engine.

Q2. What are the techniques of decaronization?

A: There are two techniques of decarbonization – mechanical and chemical.

Q3. What is Mechanical decarbonization?

A: In this technique the engine is opened and the carbon deposits are physically scrapped off the block piston and the cylinder heads.Its success depends upon the experience of the mechanic.

Q4. What is chemical decarbonization?

A: This process utilizes alcohols and terpenes which are added to the conventional fuel supply. These dissolve the carbon deposits formed in various parts of the engine such as the fuel injectors, crown rings, pistons etc. The carbon is ejected via the exhaust.

Q5. Ok, I understand what is decarbonization, but what are the benefits of decarbonization?

A: It is said the engine decarbonization has the following benefits:

• It cleans the engine inside out
• It decarbonizes all the important components, cleaning the Oxygen sensor as well as the catalytic convertor
• Enhances performance
• Reduced engine noise and vibration
• Restores/ improves fuel efficiency

Q6. Most car engines today are compliant with BS IV emission norms which means either ways their carbon deposits and footprint are low. So does one really need decarbonization?

A: This would entirely depend on the symptoms the car is demonstrating. which include:

• cars with heavy carbon deposits show knocking
• an increase in compression pressure
• a drastic drop in mileage
• power/ pick-up are also signs of carbon deposits in your car.

Q7. Is there any way to tackle carbon deposits?

A: A preventive measure to tackle carbon deposits is the use of fuel additives, which help in cleaning out carbon deposits, and prevent their build-up in the engine as well.

Q8. What should be considered before opting for an engine decarbonization?

A: One needs to keep the following points in minds before opting for an engine decarbonization:

• Decarbonizing a modern day fuel injected petrol/ diesel car is not warranted as it does not substantially improve the overall health of the engine
• One should never opt for frequent decarbonization. There is a reason why it is not part of a regular or even an annual car service package.
• Before you opt for decarbonization make sure you have explored all possibilities which may cause the engine to perform sluggishly/ non-optimally.
• Do not expect the car’s performance to be the same post decarbonization, it may go back to the way it was, since carbon deposits are inevitable.
• Decarbonization isn’t cheap, and comes with the possible risk of damaging the engine. So it is better to opt for preventive maintenance such as pure fuel supply from trusted petrol pumps, timely oil changes, using higher quality oils etc to reduce the carbon build-up.

Q9. Do manufacturers recommend an engine decarbonization?

A: Most Manufacturers do not recommend an engine decarbonization, as modern day car engines are designed to last with their components being least affected by carbon deposits. Given the stringent emission norms in practice, they're designed to have complete combustion of fuels in the chamber, ensuring least amount of carbon deposit.