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I just a poured a can of STP "fuel injector cleaner" down the gas tank to clear up a hick up once in a while. The shelves are full of all sorts of additives claiming all sorts of things. Some even claim they can seal a head gasket. Has anyone seen anything good come off these products?
The only thing I ever use is Berryman's B12 fuel system cleaner. This stuff works great if you actually have something that can benefit from it. I run it through my 30 year old Miata once every 2 years or so - it's very strong stuff. The car noticeably idles smoother after using it. I wouldn't use a product like that on a new car though, or probably any car under 8-10 years old. Newer cars will simply not imo have any real build-up that is worth removing. I'd also add that Berryman's is the only one I've found that noticeably improves older cars. The other brands like STP and Techron don't make any difference imo, and I've used many. As far as things like leak sealers I'd stay away, I've read they can clog up passageways and cause more damage than they fix.
Q. Have fuel additives ever helped with anything?
A. Yes. They help fatten the bank accounts of those that make the stuff.
It's funny how these fads come and go. Somebody makes a YouTube video showing how using SeaFoam in your motor has all these wonderful benefits and then the fad explodes, tons of people buying into the hype, all based on unproven anecdotal claims of vague improvements, spraying solvents in places they shouldn't be sprayed. Hey, my SeaFoamed engine "seems" better. Same thing occurred decades ago with Slick50. Wow! My engine "feels" like it's so much more efficient!
The only fuel additive I believe in is mixing oil with gas for a 2-stroke engine. I know the engine will die without it
What about the dealer service department that upsells "fuel injector cleaning" service ?
If it's a true fuel injector cleaning that involves taking the injectors out and using real chemicals solvents to clean it. That's a real service. I would ask what it involves, if it's just pouring liquids I do not want.
I have used injector cleaner a few times. Seems like it helps - 90GMC 4X4 with 400,000 miles. No real service done to the engine, beyond what is expected.
I use Gunk motor flush in the oil before I change it, and always have. I swear by it. I drive to the store, pick up a can and pour it in and then drive to change the oil.
Something works! Engine still runs strong 31 years later!
Yes, tetraethyl lead does a great job eliminating detonation and lubricating valve seats.
Just don't get it on your hands. Since it is an organic compound, it's absorbed right through the skin. And led just ain't good fer ya
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