Engine decarbonization: a complete guide to benefits and drawbacks

Engine decarbonization has become one of the most discussed automotive services in recent years. Many drivers wonder whether it’s worth investing in this process and whether the benefits are real or just marketing. In this comprehensive guide, we analyze all aspects of decarbonization, from the technical process to the costs involved and drivers’ real experiences.

Carbon deposits, also known as calamine, are among the chronic problems of modern engines, especially on diesel. These deposits form due to poorer fuel quality, improper driving habits, and neglected maintenance. The decarbonization process promises to solve these problems, but how effective is it in reality?

What is engine decarbonization?

Decarbonization is a technological process that removes carbon deposits (calamine) from the internal components of the engine. These deposits accumulate over time on intake and exhaust valves, in the combustion chamber, on pistons, and on the intake passages.

Using a specialized generator, hydrogen gas is injected into the engine’s intake while it runs at idle. The hydrogen reaches the combustion chamber where it increases the combustion temperature, facilitating the dissolution and removal of carbon deposits through the exhaust system.

There is also an alternative method using water vapor, considered safer and cheaper. In this case, water sprayed into the intake turns into steam that softens and removes carbon deposits.

Hydrogen injection method

Hydrogen is delivered to the engine via a specialized generating system that injects hydrogen gas into the intake while the engine runs at idle. The hydrogen reaches the combustion chamber where it increases the temperature of combustion, facilitating the dissolution and removal of carbon deposits through the exhaust system. This method is performed by trained professionals using proper safety protocols.

Water vapor method

There is also a safer and cheaper alternative using water vapor. The process involves controlled spraying of water into the intake of a warm engine in proper operation.

What does engine decarbonization help with?

Decarbonization brings multiple benefits for the health of the engine:

• Cleaning internal components: The process removes deposits from the combustion chamber, pistons, valves, and segments. This improves the sealing of combustion chambers and combustion efficiency.
• Improved performance: A clean engine burns fuel more efficiently, which can lead to a rise in power and torque, though not dramatically.
• Reduced fuel consumption: More efficient combustion can contribute to a 5-10% reduction in fuel consumption in favorable cases.
• Unseizing components: The process can free up components such as the EGR valve or improve turbocharger operation by removing deposits.
• Improved emissions: A cleaner engine produces lower emissions, an important factor for passing periodic technical inspections.

Practical experience with decarbonization

To test the effectiveness of this process, we opted for decarbonizing a 2004 Ford Transit with a 2.0 TDCi engine and over 240,000 km on the odometer. The vehicle was well maintained, with [injectors] recently refurbished and regular oil changes every 10,000 km.

The procedure lasted 40 minutes, during which the hydrogen generator injected gas into the engine intake while it was idling. After the process, we observed the following minor improvements:

• Quieter and smoother operation at cold start
• Slightly improved throttle response under load
• Easier starting in the morning

The changes were not dramatic, as expected given the engine’s good condition before the process. Specialists recommend repeating the process at 20,000 km for optimal results.

Costs of engine decarbonization in Romania

Prices for decarbonization have dropped considerably as more service centers offer this service:

Standard prices:

• Engines under 2000 cc: 250 RON
• Engines over 2000 cc: 300 RON
• Discount for a second visit: 50 RON

Street-side services: 100-150 RON, but they are not recommended due to the risks involved.

In the past, when the service was new on the market, prices reached 100-150 euros per car. Competition has led to prices leveling at the current level.

Risks and disadvantages of decarbonization

Although the benefits are real, the process is not without risks:

• Risk of engine damage: If the generator fails and injects excessive hydrogen, extreme temperatures can melt pistons or burn head gaskets.
• Improper adjustment: An unqualified specialist can set incorrect parameters, leading to damage of internal components.
• Does not solve mechanical problems: Decarbonization is a preventive maintenance process, not a repair. It will not fix defective injectors, turbocharger issues, or major mechanical wear.
• Temporary effects: Benefits persist only if the conditions that caused the initial deposits improve.

Alternative method with water vapor

Decarbonization with water vapor represents a safer and cheaper method. The process involves controlled spraying of water into the intake of a warm engine that operates properly.

Steam formed in the combustion chamber softens and dissolves carbon deposits, removing them through the exhaust. This method carries lower risks compared with hydrogen injection, but still requires careful monitoring by a specialist.

When is decarbonization worth it?

Decarbonization is recommended in the following situations:

• Vehicles with more than 100,000 km
• Engines that operate predominantly in urban traffic
• Vehicles fueled with questionable quality fuels
• Symptoms such as increased consumption, reduced power, or uneven operation
• As a preventive measure for modern diesel engines with EGR and DPF

Recommendations for optimal results

To ensure decarbonization is effective and safe:

1. Choose a specialized service with professional equipment and qualified staff
2. Ensure the engine runs properly before the process
3. Follow post-decarbonization recommendations (drive more aggressively during the first 100 km)
4. Plan the operation regularly (every 15,000-20,000 km for sustained results)
5. Combine with proper maintenance (quality fuel, regular oil changes)

Decarbonization of the engine can bring real benefits, but it is not a miraculous solution. The effectiveness of the process depends on the initial state of the engine, the quality of execution, and maintaining proper maintenance. For well-maintained engines, improvements will be minor, but for vehicles with neglected maintenance, the results can be more noticeable.

Before opting for this procedure, assess the overall condition of the engine and consult a specialist to determine whether decarbonization is the right solution for your vehicle.