Opinion on engine flushes?

bluewater328

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Join Date: Aug 2010

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Drives: 2011 bluewater 328i LCI sedan

Quote:

Mosaud1998

Originally Posted by

I'm afraid to use it. I don't really want to harm a $5k-$6k engine using an $8 product. Plus, if you change your oil every 5-7k mile, I don't think you should have any "deposits".

Why thoughI'm afraid to use it. I don't really want to harm a $5k-$6k engine using an $8 product. Plus, if you change your oil every 5-7k mile, I don't think you should have any "deposits".

In moderation, say every 3 years or so, I think its fine as a maintenance item and can only do good. You're supposed to flush them all anyway immediately after use (which includes idling the engine). So most of it is detergent or alcohol (burn your problems) anyway, so the effect is somewhat minimal. If your car is used or giving you some odd idling, its not a bad idea if you haven't done it before.

But as you say, an engine that has mostly highway miles and regular oil changes twice a year or whatever your oil analysis says, is probably fine without it. As an N52, you probably have less issues and a good fuel system cleaner is about all you really need. A few people have stuck boroscopes down there and these engine cleaners do take away some of the carbon deposits. So it's up to you. If it ain't broken or bogging, don't fix it.

There's a bit of sarcasm in there...mainly because I can't stand the "doctor" (not speaking of Mr. Who). I think its fine to use additives every couple of years. Things that clear your injectors, fuel system, etc have their place as not every gas is as good as it says it is, plus neither is our engine. The thing you want to consider most is how something will affect your seals/gaskets. That's the largest worry. If you're beyond that, then everything but Boostane is fine :PIn moderation, say every 3 years or so, I think its fine as a maintenance item and can only do good. You're supposed to flush them all anyway immediately after use (which includes idling the engine). So most of it is detergent or alcohol (burn your problems) anyway, so the effect is somewhat minimal. If your car is used or giving you some odd idling, its not a bad idea if you haven't done it before.But as you say, an engine that has mostly highway miles and regular oil changes twice a year or whatever your oil analysis says, is probably fine without it. As an N52, you probably have less issues and a good fuel system cleaner is about all you really need. A few people have stuck boroscopes down there and these engine cleaners do take away some of the carbon deposits. So it's up to you. If it ain't broken or bogging, don't fix it.