Racing legend Mario Andretti shares his expert insights on fuel system cleaners, addressing common questions and highlighting their importance for optimal engine performance. Fuel system cleaners are designed to dissolve and remove harmful deposits that accumulate in the engine over time.
**Q: What are bottled fuel system cleaners?**
**Mario:** Bottled fuel system cleaners are fuel-soluble chemical additives that enhance a vehicle’s performance. They work by burning away harmful engine deposits as the car uses fuel, leading to a cleaner and more efficient engine.
**Q: Who should use a fuel system cleaner?**
**Mario:** Everyone can benefit from using a fuel system cleaner. They are particularly useful for those who have recently purchased a used car and are unsure of the engine’s condition. Individuals using lower-quality fuel should also consider them. Quarterly use of a quality fuel system cleaner can help ensure the investment made in your car is protected. The right fuel system cleaner can maximize fuel efficiency and engine performance while reducing maintenance costs on both new and old vehicles.
**Q: How do deposits affect my engine?**
**Mario:** Deposit buildup on engine parts like fuel injectors, intake valves, ports, carburetors, and combustion chambers can lead to poor engine performance, increased emissions, and reduced fuel efficiency. Deposits may also increase the car’s octane requirement, potentially forcing you to purchase more expensive, higher-octane gasoline.
**Q: What causes engine deposits?**
**Mario:** All engines gradually accumulate deposits due to normal gasoline combustion. Gasoline quality also affects the rate of deposit buildup. Modern, complex engines are very sensitive to these deposits, which can significantly impair performance if left unchecked.
**Q: How can I detect engine deposit buildup?**
**Mario:** Signs of engine deposit buildup include a noticeable loss of power, hesitation or stumbling during acceleration, or unusual knocking or pinging sounds coming from the engine.
**Q: My fuel gauge sometimes gets stuck. Can a fuel system cleaner solve this problem?**
**Mario:** Absolutely. Sulfurs in modern gasoline can accumulate and cause the fuel gauge to malfunction. This can be a major inconvenience or a safety risk if you unexpectedly run out of fuel. Chevron’s TECHRON Concentrate Plus addresses the sulfur issue and provides protection from engine deposits.
**Q: Many gasolines already contain additives, so why should I buy a bottled fuel additive?**
**Mario:** Some gasoline additives may not be effective enough to maintain optimal engine performance, especially during frequent stop-and-go driving. Many gasoline marketers have reduced the concentration of fuel additives in their gasolines, making engines more susceptible to harmful deposit buildup.
**Q: How often should I use a fuel system cleaner?**
**Mario:** It is generally recommended to use a fuel system cleaner once every 3,000 miles, or about four times per year, coinciding with oil changes. It is an affordable way to protect your vehicle investment and maximize its performance.