Hey guys!

I'm new to the forums here and I just have a quick question. Oh yeah I drive a 1998 corolla ce. A few days ago my engine started running rough and after going to my dealership they replaced the spark plugs. They have also recommended that I get my fuel inductor cleaned, apparently there is a build up of carbon in it. I've decided to hold off on getting it done since its around $150(CND.) it seems to be running fine now. I guess what I'm wondering is is this something I NEED to do now? I'm a college student so money doesn't exactly grow on trees for me. Will this just lower my fuel economy or will it cause other problems for me down the road(read expensive problems?)

Thanks for any help you guys can give.
BigJay

BigJay - In my opinion, the fuel induction cleaning is just the latest dealer way to make money. The standard for fuel induction cleaning is to add a can of fuel induction cleaner to the fuel tank each oil change. I have a 1994 Madza B3000 that has 220,000 miles on it, and that is the only way the induction system has ever been cleaned.

Goto Canadian Tire and get some "injector cleaner". Make sure you have a full tank and add the recommended dose.

Do this every second tank until it runs smooth. Else, you will have to replace your injectors. About $100 each.

Fuel injection problems are mostly caused by dirt and poor quality gas. First of all change your fuel filter then run only MAJOR brands of gas, if you can run Sunoco with 9.8% Ethanol than do so. Off brands of gas have NO cleaning additives but MAJOR brands do such as ESSO,SUNOCO and so on, and do not forget your air filter. I currently own a performance shop and have dealt with this problem MANY times. Remember there is no quick fix in a can.....

After re-reading the original post, bigJay's problem clearly was the sparkplugs. As he said, it's running fine now.

I do agree with xrs rev however. The fuel filter is a regular maintenance item, and Jay, you should replace it every 50,000 km. Same goes for the air filter, but check it yearly.

They make a product called seafoam you can buy at advace auto parts comes in 16 oz. can ,read instruction and pour in your gas tank and you will be amazed at difference, smooth running. I use this in my 87 mr2 almost every third tank. Hope that helps you and drive safe.