Direct Injection Intake Valve Cleaning

While I had the direct injected N14 engine out of my 2007 Mini Cooper S, I decided to remove the intake manifold and inspect the valves. I'm glad I did because I found that they were caked up with performance robbing carbon deposits.
In this video I show how I removed these deposits. I also talk about how they got there in the first place.
This video will apply to several vehicles with direct injection engines.
I had some help with editing on this one from Javan Hovind.
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Pick Set: www.jbtoolsales.com/sunex-too...
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Due to factors beyond the control of EricTheCarGuy, it cannot guarantee against unauthorized modifications of this information, or improper use of this information. EricTheCarGuy assumes no liability for property damage or injury incurred as a result of any of the information contained in this video. EricTheCarGuy recommends safe practices when working with power tools, automotive lifts, lifting tools, jack stands, electrical equipment, blunt instruments, chemicals, lubricants, or any other tools or equipment seen or implied in this video. Due to factors beyond the control of EricTheCarGuy, no information contained in this video shall create any express or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. Any injury, damage or loss that may result from improper use of these tools, equipment, or the information contained in this video is the sole responsibility of the user and not EricTheCarGuy®.

[@richard1835]

I used a Walnut Blaster under pressure and it worked great for a 2008 BMW 535i. No engine removal just the Intake Manifold removal. Great video Eric. Thumbs Up.

[@felixliew4332]

Once cleaned, installing an oil catch tank will help to reduce the carbon buildup

[@dexcoon]

Something I did with my old Mazdaspeed 6 (which was also turbo direct injection) was a feed a can of Seafoam through the vacuum lines once a year, let it sit for about 10 minutes to help it dissolve the deposits and then take it for a hard drive to clear it all out. Seemed to work pretty well, I had the intake off at 130,000 miles and they were still in great shape.

[@TRiBaL1981]

I used those bench buddies along with plenty of carb cleaner to clean the valves of my gti and they came out pretty good! Pulls so much better now!

[@mr.carguy3161]

Bench buddy and drills. Sweet combination! Gotta love Milwaukee tools!

[@rotory2002]

I like you man :) You get right down to business and tell us everything there is to know ! You're the kinda guy I could sit down and have a couple beers with and laugh LOL Thanks for everything.

[@gweedomurray9923]

Some guys go off on side tangents and even try to be funny. I like Eric's direct no nonsense approach and sometimes humor just happens to come up.

[@georgecates9538]

Thank you. That's were I'm going with my 4runner 3VZE just got the intake out carb cleaner and one of the brushes did the job right. Tomorrow I will be going inside the heads clean them good. Great job thank you!

[@Ethan007Hacks]

Hey Mr. Eric! Do you know where I can get a clutch slave cylinder for my Acura Vigor?

[@WKZworks]

A catch tank is a good thing to have; something to supplement the factory stuff in your PCV system (just plumb it inline) before the oil has a chance to be sucked into the intake.

[@67comet]

I added an oil catch can to my EcoBoost for this same reason. It keeps the oil particles from collecting as bad on the intake valves.

[@W42PZ]

Tony Botchagaloop *fool

[@afcgeo882]

You’ll still need a walnut treatment at some point. You do extend the intervals with a catch can though.

[@leoashrae4199]

I've been using my old SpeedBlaster and crushed walnut shells. It requires a lot of refills, but walnut-blasting works great! It's a super-messy, strictly for the outdoors, job.

[@Driftingkalamari]

Great stuff! I have 2010 Cooper S. Same N14 engine. At 35,000 miles last year I had to have it walnut blasted. I’m at 58,000 and need it again... Not only is it on the valves, it builds up IN the combustion chambers, usually piston rings, humming them up. Most common code thrown would be superknock, even if the check engine light isn’t showing it. A simple, cheap, water spray for the intake manifold may help a lot. And definitely add a baffled oil catch can! The N14 should come from factory with one... XD Always enjoying your videos!

[@luisgallo5518]

Seriously love the Mini Series

[@uprise51]

Have you thought about putting a catch can between the valve cover and intake

[@christopherburbidge972]

Love your videos and have for many years! Thank you for all of your time and knowledge!

[@shortdom107]

Is flooding the DI engine recommended with an upper injection cleaning

[@rajaasif7915]

Dear sir it was very helpful and knowledgeable thank you so much

[@syserrx7248]

Thanks for the video, installing catch can when you buy new car would reduce carbon buildup over time.

[@TheV6Guy]

Wondering if there's a way to do this service on a V6 without pulling the engine out.

[@ozzstars_cars]

Looks way better. Nice work Eric. I may give it a try.

[@BrewBlaster]

So Eric, how did you end up with all those extra fasteners? XD

[@Fooshbadacadoosh]

All the extra bolts you get when you put stuff back together

[@HimmelWeint]

@@Fooshbadacadoosh Some parts also come with new bolts or sometimes you just buy extra bolts and what not too. Plus sometimes when scrapping certain parts you take the bolts too.

[@justinwatch]

That's not true. I never have any left over bolts. Stop being a dipstick.

[@flatratemaster]

We walnut blast a lot of VW and Audi's, last week we also had 2 GM 3.6s that needed it as well. We are seeing lots of driveability issues with carbon build up

[@Baerchenization]

After how many miles should I think about this as a preventative maintenance item?

[@michaelw6277]

Baerchenization My GTI was running strong until 90k when the intake manifold failed and I paid to have them cleaned at a discount. The only difference I could tell was it ran smoother. Didn’t notice better fuel economy or more power; it still spun the tires in first and second gear all the same. I’ll only ever do it when the car throws a code or when other work makes it convenient.

[@bryantint1339]

I also have that Cadillac V-6 with direct injection. I never liked the idea of direct injection ever, however, but they do not make those Buick V-6s anymore. I have a 2013 Chevrolet by the way. It used to run great at 27K and 40 K and so on, but near 100K it runs a bit sluggish for sure, and I need a tune up anyway. I plan on doing it at home, once I get back home to King County, Washington. I am over here in British Burma where I spend more time now. Thank you. This was very educational and I had a feeling direct injection in some ways is a gimmick, but I cannot avoid it.

[@blaknoizee]

As early as 45k to 60k. I just avoid Direct Injection altogether. Trade it off for a car that uses Direct Port Injection or an older car with regular fuel injection systems.

[@maxmykhlyk3732]

what if you didn't reroute the "out" of the catch can (or the PCV system) back into the intake of the engine? wouldn't that solve the problem with DI because nothing from the PCV is going back over the intake valves? i was thinking just feed a hose down to the bottom of the car from the PCV like those that drain A/C condensation.

[@RixterNow]

Eric, whats your thinking of an oil catch can for preventing carbon building, specifically on the N14 engine?

[@kjmeljuga]

I have a 2017 accord hybrid. Is this something I should b worried about?

[@nokoolaid]

I might use a bronze shotgun/rifle bore brush.

[@MrUltraworld]

Would an oil separator help? This past year, I purchased a ZL1 & ZR1 and added catch cans to slow down the oil getting on the back of the valves.

[@455Transam]

only helps if there's a BAFFLE or a filter in the catch can.

[@vicarus1]

A $2 clear fuel filter mounted on PCV line will do. Easy fix

[@GrimYak]

@@vicarus1 same one like they used in motorcycle? Cut the hose and put it in between? This sounds ingenious.

[@mareksumguy1887]

@@GrimYak No, that won't work, you idiots. You need some reservoir volume/capacity to collect the oil (thats been scrubbed out of the crankcase gasses). Thats why you need a proper, filtered catch can.

[@mareksumguy1887]

Fred Garvin It needs to have some sort of filter material in it. Like extra-fine steel wool... to catch and condense out the oil molecules... but let the gas/air through, back to the intake.

[@Federer2001]

I have a 2008 VW and I changed the valve cover (PCV valve built in) and I looked into the hose from the PCV to the intake and I didn't see any oil. I suspect no blow by with my engine. I still wonder though if I still have carbon build up on my valves?

[@dennisbaker6814]

Great follow up on comments and demonstration for instances where folks may not have the budget, tools, time for DIYing this process.

[@manvillercwingchun]

I like that you attempted different ways of cleaning them but wouldn't those wire brushes cause massive damage to the cylinder walls if one or more of the wires came off and entered the cylinder?

[@derrickroach4682]

That's why you make sure the valves are not open....lol

[@bcubed72]

Does this mean that every GDI engine ought to get a nitrous/methanol setup? Purely for maintenance purposes, mind...

[@ConquerDriving]

Maybe that's what my learner car needs 😄

[@damieg82]

An oil catch can is what's needed. The bulk of the problem stems for the valve cover ventilation being fed back into the intake. This is done for emissions, but since direct injected engine intake valves don't get washed with petrol like in multi-point injection, the valves gunk up.

[@rotorblade9508]

damieg82 occ is good but yoy still need to sort out the egr problem

[@afcgeo882]

no candy What Chevy do you have without EGR with DI?

[@afcgeo882]

No, it doesn’t mean that. Those certainly void warranties, so keep that in mind. Multi-port injection engines don’t need them. Some GDI engines that are more modern have other ways to filter out particulates. I know Subaru has a patented centrifuge on their engines. I’ve heard new Hyundai/Kia engines leave pistons down every few firings, so it gets washed over with gasoline. All those slow the rates of deposits to where running meth is an unnecessary customization that may cause more harm than good. That said, many engines do still need some type of cleaning. However, it’s been proven that NO method prevents all build-up. Not meth, not a catch and not fuel/oil/TB additives. Eventually it will be time for a walnut treatment.

[@billrimmer5596]

Nice clear video. Thank u Eric. I have enjoyed the Mini series!!

[@zeus-io3hn]

hi Eric, i have this issue with my frd engine. it is giving check engine light. can i spray carb cleaner through the return brake vacuum line to cleaner it. will it help?

[@commodore665]

" Anyone , anyone , Bueller Bueller " , good video Eric , really informative . like to run an intake cleaner through my cars on the in between services , there the ones I do myself ,

[@TheOzthewiz]

Run intake cleaner? Like add to gas? Not going to help much.

[@greenastraopc]

oil catch can is the best option after cleaning

[@deseremere]

Oil catch can will decrease those deposits 5-10% max, it is a fairy tale that it fixes GDI intake problems. Most of the oil comes through intake valve seals

[@kgisabeast]

Toyota has the best design with port and direct injection= no carbon buildup issues

[@remissiveslave]

@Jeff Sol glad you spelled the STATISTS name correctly, good on you.

[@remissiveslave]

@@deseremere any advice on a Wrxs , particularly fa20? Hear 1 million differwnt stories. I probably won't have mine long enough to need to worry, but just in general.

[@MackTheGovnah]

Lukas which is one of the many reasons their engines outlast the others

[@DarkRider2k3]

Hah! So glad I found this. Currently in the process of replacing injectors on my CX-7 and it's got the same exact buildup on my valves from Mazda's GDI. What a pain in the ass that manifold was to remove though!!!!

[@alanw5812]

Happy for the workshop,we do this everyday.warning light come on,and ecu low the power,so you must do it.

[@MrBillrookard]

That's one of the things I was concerned with - I have 2016 Focus ST (direct injected with turbo). I've read that many of the DI engines - especially turbocharged ones - are prone to this buildup. I was thinking this exact method was going to be the solution and it's good to see that this will be the answer to it. Bookmarking the tool links...

[@presjar4016]

Bill Rookard have a look at some studies and see if "dirty" really changes performance / fuel economy.

[@Simple_Youtube]

Get a good quality oil catch can. I have a Morosso

[@TheFringes.]

I got an FRS because of that problem exactly, Toyota uses secondary port injectors. Get an oil catch can, or even a dual can setup and you’ll have no problem

[@MechRider89]

Bill Rookard this isnt the answer, get rid of the egr emissions junk on the engine install a catch can and never have to clean your valves...plus get better fuel economy and more power.

[@ckm-mkc]

Sure made a difference in my GTI - mileage is up ~10 mpg....

[@Tom-Servo]

This series is so informative. This mini is such a mega pos. So glad I never bought one

[@aarongrisham5555]

Lol it's because people don't take care of them. I have a 6 year old B48 engine and I'm betting it's had less problems than any vehicle you've ever had.

[@bijdikh8516]

My Mini has had less problems than an old Mercedes I used to own. Do the scheduled maintenance you need to do, and it'll be reliable.

[@aarongrisham5555]

@@bijdikh8516 exactly

[@melvincolvon8019]

Hey Eric I have question on what triggers the fuel injector air assist on the honda element and the honda crv..?

[@glascojeremy]

Way to go..... I completely understand ur frustrations. Thank u again for the tip!!!!

[@CalSticks]

Happy birthday!

[@spelunkerd]

Dang, what a nightmare! I'd be worried about knocking off debris that ends up inside the cylinder, or caught on the valve lip that prevents a good seal. It looks like there's no alternative to do this better without removing the head. Walnut blasting sounds interesting, but with the valve tightly closed it would be hard to clean the edge of the valve well....

[@malp6280]

uknow you could open the valve & pour fuel into the chamber engulfing the valve.. the fuel itself would dissolve the carbon & you could vacuum the liquid out or manually crank the engine & allow the fuel to run our (after removing the down-pipe/cat) (doing this without the spark plug in would be the best idea however)

[@memefeed2147]

crc intake cleaner is probably the best option

[@neondiamondsaquaberry17]

If you’re doing this for the first time on a car with 125k miles or so then it’s probably better to go ahead and remove the head so you can also change the head gasket, then you really would reach 200k + miles no problem ,

[@edwinjewell5359]

This flat out Sucks why didnt engineers just incorporate GDI with PFI from the get go.What a Bunch of Bulls#%%.

[@TheZacdes]

You dont have to. Carbon does not build up on the valve seating faces. They are constantly banging on and off the seat, no carbon gets a chance to settle there!

[@josw4988]

Great video! Talked to you at Carlise, you are a great guy and thanks for all the great advice. Keep up the good work with all your videos!!! Like and subscribe and notifications!

[@khndenmark]

I also use walnut to clean my intake valve and they are like new after you done that, I think that is the best way... thanks for the videos

[@garypowell4565]

Good job mate! I've got one question on this procedure, when doing all that scraping with the screw driver aren't you knocking some carbon molecules into the piston chamber through the open valves?

[@USMCghost]

listen at 4:39. He makes sure the valve he is working on, is completely closed.

[@afcgeo882]

JJ0three11 But once he starts running it, it opens up again.

[@TheOzthewiz]

@@afcgeo882 That's WHY he uses the AIR NOZZLE !

[@kevinoneill41]

Do believe he did say make sure that the valves should be closed. T.D.C.

[@ironmike742]

@@afcgeo882 lol

[@SierraOne]

An entire era of engine design to avoid! This type of negative consequence of a new design is an expensive maintenance process.

[@mannys9130]

Living Larger It can mostly be avoided with a PCV catch can.

[@terrenceg3257]

What year did the industry remedy the problem with another injector?

[@BiologistRyan]

This one also had an issue in the valve cover as well. Not saying it wont be an issue but it wont be as bad as this.

[@BiologistRyan]

depended on the car not just year. The subaru BRZ has always had dual injection, the newest wrx does not. A lot of newer cars do also have dual. some still dont.

[@joebabe80]

Like diesel engine

[@WeThePeople2020]

the question I have is how to clean the intake valves without dissembling the engine? There are so many product out there which would you recommend?

[@em1j797]

Another great video Erick!

[@IntegraDIY]

The best/cheapest way I've found to clean intake/exhaust ports is gasoline and a stiff tooth brush.. make sure the valves are closed, fill up the port, and brush it out.. use a shop rag to get the left over gunk/gas out :)

[@kevinoneill41]

Air and break clean/ carb cleaner

[@TheRealMrCods]

Damn that was dirty 😱😱😱

[@DrumeRGray]

What is your opinion on Fuel Induction services that a lot of dealers and service shops offer? The ford dealer I worked at recommended the service every 30-60k and we used the Gulf fuel induction service kit with the fuel rail and intake cleaners.

[@dedskin1]

do you have to disassemble the whole car to do that , im wondering for Audi Q5 with TFSI engine , would it need to be dissembled completely to clean intake valves ? Thanks

[@accordinglyryan]

Glad my current car (2017 V6 Accord) is port injected. Don't want anything to do with this.

[@rosewd2]

Why not prevent this with a oil catch can like the mishimoto mmbcc-msthr-bk one for 21$ on eBay. This would make a good video on installing one, seeing how much oil the recovers from the pcv and how clean is the intake after say 5k miles

[@barryblauvelt4494]

I agree, Getting rid of the oil from the crank case ,pcv would be best handled, with a oil catch can, and keep it out of the intake.

[@atl3630]

Oil catch cans don’t solve the problem.

[@ACitizenOfOurWorld]

Never seen a scientific comparison of valves before/after 30,000mi both with and without a catch can. Just guys putting one in and emptying the liquids that collect in there every couple weeks. Do those liquids equate to carbon buildup? - I don't know, because - again show me the evidence on the VALVES -not what's in the can.

[@brucebalfour8042]

Hi Eric...here is another method for cleaning valves we use on VW TDI diesels prior to egr delete. Pull spark plug and hook up compression test fitting in place and attach air compressor to blow high pressure air through cylinder. Rotate engine to TDC and walnut blast or chemical your choice. Walnuts work best for us...shop vac while you blast and when finished vac and wipe clean. Then rotate engine backward until compressed air blows all of the particles out of the valve recess. You would be amazed how much particulate "packs" around the rim of the sealing surface that you cannot see. Enjoy your videos very much. I have learned a ton. Be well

[@QuietMikeW]

I noticed he said “early “direct injected motors, has there been design improvements to help with this carbon problem on DI? I put air oil separator’s on the PCV systems of my DI cars

[@-CLASSIFIED-]

I bet this is how dentists feel xD

[@napieraustin]

Keegan Spencer “well they’re not perfect but they are better than before”

[@pinoyeh]

I installed an oil catch can on my 2012 Sonata at the 80k kms. mark on the odometer. My car is now on the 145k kms. and perhaps do my own cleaning sometime next year.

[@SuperTajou]

Happy Birthday Mini Series ❤

[@mistardoyle3042]

i have a gdi 2.4 in my chevy equinox with only 43k miles but it idles like crap at stoplights even after throttle body cleaning and spark plugs and is using alot more gas than usual and stumbles at idle too, would i need to have my valves cleaned? how can i do it without taking off my entire intake manifold?

[@pepper13111]

30-50 k miles and engine needs pulling?

[@OffGridInvestor]

NO. Manifold needs taking off. And you get in there with the drill brush. FACT IS that multiple places now make a spray you put in behind the MAS or in front of the throttle body for this. CRC has one and there's a couple others. You can also get intake manifold cleaner (some sitting on my bench right now) and that SHOULD do something. That's LIQUI MOLY brand and easily available. Done it on my old hyundai a couple weeks ago.

[@TheOzthewiz]

THANKS, BMW!

[@90210sky]

@@TheOzthewiz is not a BMW specific issue, all newer engines in all brands are GDI due to emissions requirements .

[@NuarStanger]

2 words. CATCH, CAN. Won't fix the issue, but it will help A LOT

[@barryblauvelt4494]

Plus,... say, 10% MMO in oil at oil change?

[@atl3630]

Evidence, please

[@NOXXism]

it's literally what catch cans do. They catch the oil that comes from your PCV system. BMWs have breather filters, and newer TDIs have an incorporated one on the valve cover. Oil contributes massively to this gunk that forms on the valves @@atl3630

[@my4cars528]

The Ultimate Channel for Ultimate Infotainment!

[@markjacobson1285]

What are your thoughts with the 3.5 Liter Earth Dreams in my 2018 Honda Ridgeline? Same issue at some point or has Honda designed this engine with the intake valve issues in mind? Thank you for your response.

[@Rickm2003]

that brush you used would be good on a rim with the aluminum tpms, clean the sensor hole out quick!

[@ericthecarguy]

Bench Buddies are great.

[@ScubaCat3]

The "mini series". Ahhhhhhhh I get it. Good one. :)

[@romanf5666]

but some of the vales are open, is dirt going into the engine? or is it better, to turn the crankshaft, to close the valve after each cleaning

[@brandonfoss9445]

Is there any risk of scratching the valve or port with the screwdriver/pick? If so would it adversley affect the engine?

[@lukekilah6257]

Main reason I added a provent 200 and water methanol injection. My tdi has 240 k on it and the intake manifold/ valves look brand new

[@MechRider89]

luke kilah smart man, a water/meth setup is a easy way to deal with the problem plus gain a little more power from cooler intake air temps

[@lukekilah6257]

MechRider89 thanks bud, it’s made a huge difference. Plus it keeps my egt’s nice and low

[@DracoOmnia]

Can't wait to pull the trigger on a meth kit. Should be my last mod... Lmao

[@martij30]

Just read this online about the N14 engine, which belongs to the Prince engine family: 'On 25 June 2014 1.6-litre turbo Prince engine won its eighth consecutive International Engine of the Year Award in the 1.4 to 1.8-litre category.' Who do they get to choose these? No way that this engine should even be considered as "engine of the year'.

[@Butterffinger5678]

martij30 I agree. A lot of those awards don't seem logical to me. Like J.D. Power's "initial quality" award. The cars are analyzed is the first 90 days of ownership. That's three months and maybe 5,000 miles in that amount of time...

[@kennethrome5125]

JD Power also does the a 3 year quality analysis on every car/truck .....How does it come out of the factory and how well the vehicle perform over the next 3 years .....

[@terrywaters6186]

Do I need to get rid of my 2011 Chevy Equinox with the DI 2.4?

[@quickguesswho]

Does an egr delete fix this problem? I have a 18 Subaru wrx

[@jblyon2]

Toyota put the extra set of port injectors in their direct injection engines from the start! You can't even use normal cleaners in direct injection engines that have a turbo integrated into the exhaust manifold. The excess heat from burning the cleaner can do severe damage to the turbo (especially Ford Ecoboost). You HAVE to remove the valve covers and clean them manually.

[@richhunter515]

jblyon2 afraid I’m going to have to do this to my 2014 Escape soon :/

[@Tool0GT92]

Some shops can do walnut blasting, they close the valve and its kind of like sand blasting and they use a vacuum while cleaning it.

[@jd5179]

Wrong - DI was first integrated in Lexus IS , I think 2007 models . They issued a extended warranty due to valves fouled by carbon deposits . Eversince they stop using DI until they developed 2nd gen DI engines .

[@jblyon2]

jd5179 I wasn't aware they initially sold the 2.5 V6 without D-4S. Strange since it was used on the 3.5L whose design was a couple years older. The -FSE designation of the 4GR alludes to it having D-4S just like the 2GR-FSE 3.5L. I haven't seen any other FSE engine without it. Must have been a cost saving measure that came back to bite them in the ass...

[@biz4twobiz463]

Many products that clean DI valves specifically say, SAFE for turbo.

[@williegillie5712]

Sad part in many cases is just cleaning the valves doesn’t solve the problem. That gunk also gets into the valve seat and head seat causing loss of compression. Best to pull the heads and do a proper head job (valves and seats)

[@raulferro3998]

I own a 2019 DI turbocharged car. It's new but I am aware I will go through this sooner or later and was thinking to myself..why not just take the car to your mechanic and have him remove the head and take it to a shop for proper maintenance as you said.

[@michaelblackmore4634]

Would using this method help to clean a diesel intake manifold? A lot of problems also stem from the EGR.

[@autodiagnostic7736]

Nice job,I will try it,thanks to @EricTheCarGuy !

[@Jessersadler]

Marvel mystery oil. Best detergent on the market.

[@VentureNW]

Doesn't matter how great the detergent is, if it doesn't hit the back of the intake valves. DI goes Direct into the combustion chamber, unlike port injectors. That is, unless you are pulling off the intake and cleaning them out by hand like Eric did here.

[@deseremere]

Looks like a very reliable engine that can easily go 300K miles with very little maintenance

[@SteveXP2]

Sarcasm is so annoying boring. Internet today: Everyone tries to be funny. Sorry CNT, its just coincidence that i answered yours..

[@salvadorrobledo1151]

Back in 2015 I got a new f150 with the 3.5 EcoBoost engine. It took me about 2000 miles to put in a catch can and when I was installing it I found oil in the PVC line into the intake. 34,000 miles later I went to check the line because of this video and found no oil!

[@stefandenic7144]

I have the same engine in my 207. 90k miles and this was never done on it. Apart from shaky iddle and performance drop, can it have some real issues with the engine? Cause a break down ?

[@hiramesensei3112]

So, you're telling me I should add secondary injection... ;)

[@matowixunplugged7927]

Expand Dong a combination of direct and port injection is best

[@Tool0GT92]

It's cheaper to either get the valves cleaned occasionally or get a catch can.

[@nicholasbaldwin1674]

Meth injection at throttle body

[@EB-dr4dd]

Ethanol prime injection keeps the oil thin and slippery allowing it to slide past valve stems. Or put 87 and have black oil and main seal leaks and lung cancer and sulfur dioxide clouds to reduce carbon dioxide.

[@fredpinczuk7352]

Install a catch Can.

[@2CabrasLocas]

Why do you say "early" direct injection vehicles? What has changed?

[@ericthecarguy]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/d4G5hnt-bbN2nsU

[@BBBILLY86]

M B I agree. Last I knew only two manufactures have added that extra wash valve. The dozen others using DI are all prone to this carbon build up.

[@rc8839]

Mazda has solved this problem with their Skyactive engines by running the engines a tad hotter, enough to burn the carbon off. Its been six years now they introduced the Skyactive and no complaints about carbon buildup.

[@2CabrasLocas]

rc max Ahhhhhh! I've got a 2017 Silverado with direct injection & have always been freaked out (though I'd found out it's "normal") that the thing runs at 210 deg!!

[@BBBILLY86]

M B running engines hotter has been used for a few decades to reduce emissions.

[@dtaylor5493]

I bought a new 2018 GMC Sierra with 6.2L. After some research, I immediately installed a catch can on it. In only 25k kms, I've emptied it several times and collected almost 3 litres of sludge that would have otherwise gone through the intake. Winner winner chicken dinner

[@ForTheManDIY]

CRC intake valve cleaner works for me. My 2017 Sonata mileage dropped from 32 to 26mpg combined at 25K miles. I lead foot all the time. I bought 2 CRC cans. After treatment, mileage returned to 32mpg combined. Hot engine @ 2000rpm spray continuous till engine almost dies then turn off and let heat soak for an hour. Drive car for short trip and repeat 2 more times. I used 1/3 of the first can and got excellent results (32mpg again) and now WOT sets me back in the seat again. Engine hard starts and pings for the first block of driving during first treatment. After 3rd treatment, no more pinging, proof no more carbon breaking loose. My method gives great heat soak, blipping the spray can while engine remains running does little for heat soak. No ECM codes.

[@ACitizenOfOurWorld]

GDI increases performance - until it doesn't

[@VinnyMartello]

Quadrajet need an air horn gasket and float needle once every 5 years. Ten dollar fix.

[@TheDaltonmichaels]

@@VinnyMartello with crappy fuels now all containing ethanol you pretty much have to rebuild carbs every year. gaskets all get dried out and seals go bad , diaphragms crack , ethanol is hell on carbs even ethanol specific carbs are just a slight increase in life between rebuilds not a guarantee solution that will last years.

[@jeffruebens8355]

@@TheDaltonmichaels my 2 motorcycles have carbs- I put Startron from the Walmart boat section in the fuel tank every winter. The oldest one is a 2002 with all the original parts, except rejetted in 2003 for a freer flowing intake and exhaust.

[@ellesmerewildwood4858]

Faulty rocker covers allowing oil into the intake system are exactly the problem I have with my Mitsubishi 380. No easy fix, it's a bad design from factory. So I recently had to disconnect the pcv pipes and open to atmosphere leaving them as breathers. It's not the right way to do it but I can't do a proper fix. At least I'm not getting the oil consumption anymore and the throttle body is spotless and engine runs much happier not sucking in oil.

[@mannys9130]

Ellesmere Wildwood Install a baffled catch can between the PCV outlet and the intake. The baffles and steel wool that's in the catch can condense and trap the oil vapor/mist and cause it to fall out of the PCV gases. You just empty the can every so often.

[@frostyflowers4207]

Always better to vent crank case and block inlet hole Car makers have to vent it though engine only due to emmisions they know over long period this hurts your engine

[@mannys9130]

Frosty Flowers 420 Nah, venting to intake puts a slight vacuum on the crankcase to draw out the gases and bring fresh air in. When the oil separation is working correctly, it's fine. When it's not, adding a catch will solve the problem of sludge in the intake.

[@frostyflowers4207]

BS if gasses blow by ring they will vent out off crankcase vacuum is not needed

[@mannys9130]

Frosty Flowers 420 Nitric oxides produced during combustion, as well as water mix in the crankcase making nitric acid. You want to get that out ASAP. Venting to atmosphere vs venting to intake is clearly inferior at removing those gases. Venting to intake draws fresh air in faster. Don't take shortcuts, just install a catch can.

[@johnmattiazzo3900]

Would a high quality gasoline an low noack synthetic oil minimize deposits like amsoil or redline oil ??

[@EnthusiastsGarage]

Any update on the Honda 20k oil change?

[@desmodevil2291]

Was I the only cringing watch him use a screwdriver to CLEAN valves? +1 for walnut blasting

[@jameslatimer1432]

Could of cleaned intake with engine in car and made bill cheaper fuck taking my car to his garage lol

[@JohnMaxGriffin]

James Latimer Idk if you noticed, but he didn’t take the engine out just to clean valves.

[@rickhibdon11]

Nope. I was cringing all the way. Steel screwdriver scraping in an Aluminum head? No freaking way! Engine is out already, why the hell wouldn't you just pull the head?

[@WrenchMonkey88]

How to close the Mini Cooper valve?

[@zorpit]

@@rickhibdon11 It's not the head you have to worry about. It's the sharp metal scraping against the valve. Creates stress points and failure areas. But on that engine....probably wont affect it much.

[@radekwysocki7875]

missing fastener = weight reduction XD

[@richardquinones2959]

Wow that intake manifold was dirty as hell nice job Eric😎✌

[@theretrogeek2281]

does the N18 engine has the same problem? thanks.

[@johnazhderian5734]

Wow, this sounds like a very expensive and labor-intensive service just to improve gas mileage by one mpg!

[@InsideOfMyOwnMind]

How in hell did they not know about this problem in development? Push it out the door and all you poor DI owners get to pay for it. 😂😃🤣😄😆

[@bradbyers2764]

InsideOfMyOwnMind its design flaw they make test but never run full or check entirely possibly kn a slight issue and stamp it good and always remember time line for demand to accomplish a job and produce by corporate demand do u think pple who drive 100k dollar cars care lol they just want 💰

[@jessstuart7495]

They fired all the older experienced engineers who warned them about this.

[@InsideOfMyOwnMind]

I actually just saw that exactly happen with an electronics firm. Dyed in the wool American company, moved out of the country, lost all the good people, got new ones and now there's nobody to tech support last year's models.

[@GallAnon]

They didn't care. Direct injection gets better gas mileage so it satisfies epa and its not a big issue until like 75k. Catch cans and aos helps.

[@kurtzimmerman1637]

They new about it. They don't care. They blame owners saying it's maintenance. Another way to rip off people.

[@maxmykhlyk3732]

what if you didn't reroute the "out" of the catch can (or the PCV system) back into the intake of the engine? wouldn't that solve the problem with DI because nothing from the PCV is going back over the intake valves? i was thinking just feed a hose down to the bottom of the car from the PCV like those that drain A/C condensation.

[@AntonioClaudioMichael]

Very entertaining and educational

[@agatsu1776]

try dry ice blast

[@LMacNeill]

I have a 2015 Mustang with the 2.3 L EcoBoost engine -- it's direct-injection, turbocharged, same as the engine in your Mini there... I'm very concerned that this will become a problem for me in the future. And it's not like you can just spray something into the intake, like SeaFoam for example, because anything you spray in the intake is gonna go through the turbo and destroy it... So if you were to try to use SeaFoam (or something similar) you'd have to figure out a way to introduce it *after* the turbo... Ugh... Sounds like a nightmare... Anyway, thanks for the video, though -- so many engines are direct-injection these days, it's important for everyone to know what they're going to have to deal with eventually.

[@ericthecarguy]

If you put the cleaner in the intake it won't go through the turbo. The intake is after the turbo.

[@CalSticks]

For the intake manifold/head ports, fine - but you're right; definitely can't just pull the air filter off and empty a can.

[@aserta]

I tend to the cars of my family and friends, as a hobby and because none among us trust stealerships and shops anymore, not with our lives anyways. Whilst i've 'steered' away some of them from DI engines, there's still 3 cars (one funnily enough a late prod Mini of the one Eric just showed). At the very least here in EU, i can't be bothered to care about these issues anymore, these engines are absolute garbage as far as i'm concerned and ALSO, i strongly believe that the only reason they exist on the market is to thieve more and more money from owners. Why? Because, like i said, at least here in EU, i, as a hobby mechanic, i can go in break up yards and just takes these intakes and parts in general off the hundreds if not thousands (across EU) engines that were trashed, and neatly stacked on racks. At this point, i cannot be bothered to do a repair job on the quick with those 3 cars, i simply bought 2 extra of each, and i replace them in the engine, and clean the dirty ones with baths and media blasting over months. I would never buy one, ever.

[@UnlinealHand]

In the Mini community there are mixed reports of Seafoam working or not working. And whether to put it in the intake or PCV hose. Personally I don't think it's a strong enough solvent on its own to take care of intake valve coking like we saw here in one shot. Maybe if you did it every oil change or even sooner but even then I'm doubtful. There either needs to be a constant spray on the back of the valves for a long time or some sort of physical abrasive action to clean the valves off. On my Mini I went for methanol injection partly to solve this issue (on top of the performance applications). I know nothing about the EcoBoost engines so I'd double check to see if maybe it's not also port injected on top of DI, make car manufacturers are moving toward using both on their engines to help with this issue.

[@AustinVinkler]

EricTheCarGuy hi Eric, when are you gonna do the Mobil1 oil video? , the year has passed :)

[@jordanh9668]

How do you know if the valve is all the way closed? And do you just turn the crank to close it?

[@ac235287]

Hi Eric, want to ask u, does it also happen in Diesel Direct injection engine ? i am talking abt toyota 2GD diesel commonrail engine.