Fuel Injector Cleaner - Recommendation?

[al76slc]

I started this on the tech forum and didn't get any real help. I found an old bottle of STP brand fuel injector cleaner in my garage - probably 10 years old, but unopened. Still good to use, or should I toss it?

If it's too old, or the wrong stuff, what should I use? My indie suggested I use some periodically on this low mileage vehicle.

Thanks
Al

[uberwgn]

I would not use it.


Get a fresh can of either MOTUL or LM Diesel Purge. If you're not doing much mileage, you may not really need these products.

Many folks seem to use an additive at every fill-up. These mainstream products should be keeping the system clean.

[Robert Deming]

I had a problem a while back with my E320 stmbling very badly during warmup. It turned that the problem was quite general here in Western Washington, and my Mercedes dealer had considerable experience with it.

They recommended using a high concentration of Techron additive. Use your gas down to less than a quarter full, then add a full, large bottle of techron additive, then go out and drive hard. Try to go up long hills at full throttle, etc.

This process worked very well for me. It cured the stumbling completely. Now I just fill up with Chevron occasionally, and the problem has not returned.

[flbenz]

I've had great results from Techron and other posts have said it's the only additive approved by MB. Not sure if that's true, but I sure wouldn't use an old bottle.

[tecqboy]

If the can was un-opened, I wouldn't hesitate to dump it in a full tank of gas. If there is some concern of sediments or rust, pour it through a thin rag. Don't dispose of it in the trash or done the sink.

[SunGuy]

Hey al76slc,

Good advice on using Techron with 1/4 to 1/2 tank of gas. In my '87 560SL, I've also used Lucas brand injector cleaner with equal to better results. I agree also not to use the old stuff as since it's a combustible material, fresh stuff would be better.

Bob

[1983500SL]

It's not worth the potential trouble and get some LUCAS...

[al76slc]

I'm going to toss it and get the Lucas. Thanks for the tips.

I thought that modern gas (I use 93 octane) has enough cleaners, but when my indie suggested using it, I figured there must be some validity to it - he's treated me fairly.