Had the check engine light come on for no apparent reason. Had the faults checked at an independent dealer. Reported misfire in all four cylinders, but no currently present. I had the high pressure fuel pump changed 6 to 8 months ago.

SF Mini diagnosed carbon in the intake runners. Blasted it out with some sort of new tool. Worked very well, since driving it now feels like a brand new car. Much more torque, pick up etc, though the torque steer seems to be higher.

What is the advice for preventing the carbon? Best SF Mini would say is drive it hard and use a fuel additive.

 

An oil catch can, will keep the carbon from building up. It keeps the oil vapor out of the intake runners and ports. Though you have to remember to empty it from time to time, so it doesn't overflow and really mess up your engine.

Dave

 

I'm curious, how often do you change your oil?

 

about every 5k miles. Dnepr Dave, help me understand what you mean by a catch can.

 

This thread should get you started. Exactly like DneprDave said, basically a catch can will trap all the gunk and blowby gasses that would otherwise run through your engine and cause carbon buildup. It's pretty easy to install and worth it for peace of mind and engine health.

 

Would love to know more about this.


As stated, the catch cans are of some help if you live in a humid climate like SF. Some people recommend a regular seafoam regimen to keep the build-up down, but it doesn't seem very effective once the build-up is severe.