Problems After Using Cataclean – Tips for Smooth Recovery!

Every car owner’s expectation is to improve the vehicle’s overall performance with a clean engine. Cataclean is a popular choice when it comes to engine cleaning. The reason why, it comes with a lot of benefits apart from cleaning the engine. In particular, you will experience that the engine power and gas mileage has increased.

However, there are some problems after using Cataclean, too. Although they are rare, it is worth knowing what you can expect occasionally. Then, you will be able to solve those problems without delay. We will be discussing how you can fix the problems caused by Cataclean, too, so keep reading!

What is Cataclean?

Cataclean is used to unclog the fuel injector of vehicles. It contains a specialized chemical that can repair the entire fuel system. As the company claims, it has the ability to improve the fuel economy and reduce hydrocarbon emissions.

Cataclean is beneficial in revitalizing the engine performance, too. Similarly, Cataclean can be used as a catalytic converter cleaner.

When you run the vehicle for months, carbon deposits can build up in your system. As a result, the exhaust flow will be restricted, and engine performance will be reduced. Thus, Cataclean does a great job of preventing these issues.

Since Cataclean has a 12-year independent testing, it can be known as a reliable auto product.

Problems After Using Cataclean 

1. Important engine parts, including the catalytic converter and turbocharger, will wear out quickly due to the excessive usage of Cataclean. Consequently, the engine performance can be lower, so you might have to replace the parts.
2. Cataclean fuel additive can damage your catalytic converter if you use it improperly. As a result, Carbon Monoxide can be mixed with air.  
3. Cataclean can interfere with the sensors of the exhaust system because it is designed with certain chemicals, including detergents and alcohol. Those sensors are used to check the way the pollution control system functions.
4. Cataclean may be harmful to the oxygen sensor of your vehicle. As a result, the vehicle will not be able to run smoothly, and it can consume more gasoline. The oxygen sensor is responsible for monitoring gas’s oxygen levels.
5. Controversially, Cataclean can clog your fuel injectors rather than clean them. The reason why, there are chemicals and detergents in the products that can jam delicate components in fuel injectors. Then, you will have to face issues with fuel efficiency.
6. Cataclean can cause smoke in exhaust and muffler areas. This scenario can happen when your catalytic converter cannot function properly. Moreover, the oxygen sensor should not be clogged.

How to Fix Problems After Using Cataclean? 

If you found that exact problem caused by Cataclean, here are the steps you need to take next.

1. First of all, you can drain the fuel system and check whether the problem is over. If not, you have to remove your Cataclean additive. Then, the system will be unclogged.
2. You can buy a fuel injector cleaner to unclog the component. It has the ability to clear your engine and injectors. Moreover, there are fuel system cleaners that help to get rid of any residue in the system. You need to choose these products according to the type of your engine.
3. After using Cataclean, you can apply a fuel tank filter to avoid any aforesaid issues. The filter is a full car repair, so all the parts will be cleaned and unclogged. This technique can be used if the above-mentioned ones do not work.  
4. Finally, you have to check the parts of your system. If they have been damaged, it is advisable to replace them before they totally wear out.

Why does Cataclean Cause Problems?

Indeed, there is no wrong with Cataclean because incorrect usage causes problems. It is a must to check the condition of your diesel engine and fuel system before using Cataclean. They need to be in good condition.

And you need to use the right proportion of Cataclean for your engine. If you use too much liquid, it can harm the engine parts.

And it is not recommended to add Cataclean in a full tank of gas. If you use it in a full tank, the vehicle will start to perform inefficiently. Moreover, the engine can be ignitable, especially when the car is throttled.

Why does My Check Engine Light Come On After Using Cataclean?

Check engine light is one of the major symptoms of a malfunctioning catalytic converter. As we once said, Cataclean can be harmful to your catalytic converter if you use it in an improper way.

Also, if your exhaust system does not work properly, you will see the check engine light while you are driving. Especially when you drive slowly, the vehicle can show stalling or idling because the engine cannot perform well.

Thus, you are advised to get an OBD II diagnostic check after you use Cataclean. It will diagnose any fuel additive problems in the sensors of your vehicle.

How to Use Cataclean Properly?

If you are inexperienced in using Cataclean, here are the steps you need to follow.

1. Make sure to buy the correct type of Cataclean and read the manufacturer’s instructions first.
2. The bottle’s stopper should be removed and poured into half of your gas tank.
3. Now, you should run the vehicle for around 15 minutes. This step is vital because the liquid can get into the parts of the vehicle’s system.
4. After 15 minutes, you need to speed up the vehicle and drive for another few minutes. Then, the liquid will be hotter and clean the catalytic converter.

How Often Do I Need to Use Cataclean?

It is recommended to use Cataclean 4 times every 12 months. Thus, you should use a sponge catalytic converter cleaner four times every 12 months, too.

If you follow the intervals regularly, it is possible to minimize carbon build-ups within the unit.

Make sure to get professional help if you do not have an idea to choose the product and use it.

If you face aforesaid issues after using Cataclean, try to avoid them before the problem becomes serious.

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Video Credits – Peter von Panda