Best Carbon Cleaner for Intake Valves – [ Top 8 Out of 3562 ]

Carbon is the by-product of any combustion reaction. For this reason, carbon depositions are unavoidable. The same is valid for intake valves. Inside a car’s engine, the intake valve will surely get carbon buildup as time passes. But this doesn’t mean one can’t get rid of the issue.

To have an engine that performs flawlessly, you need to keep it free of any carbon buildup. Most of the carbon soot can be removed easily, but the task becomes tedious if the carbon soot is formed on the intake valve. For this reason, we’ve listed the best carbon cleaner for intake valves.

Many valve cleaners claim to remove carbon, but not all can do so. Moreover, the best among the ones which remove the carbon won’t stop at cleaning the valve. They’ll boost the engine’s performance, mileage, HP and also reduce idling. In other words, it revives your engine by getting rid of the carbon soot.

In a hurry? Buy any of these, you won’t regret we guarantee!

IMAGE	NAME	EDITOR’S RATING	PRICE
	STP PRO-SERIES CAR INTAKE VALVE CLEANER
	CRC GDI IVD INTAKE VALVE & TURBO CLEANER
	BERRYMAN 2611 INTAKE VALVE AND COMBUSTION CHAMBER CLEANER

Best Carbon Cleaner for Intake Valves Review  

If you want to find the best carbon remover for your engine’s intake valve, then take a look at our article. Not only did we list the eight best carbon removers, but we also pointed out what makes them stand out. And to further help you find the remover that suits you, we’ve also listed the factors you need to look out for before buying them.

1.STP Pro-Series Car Intake Valve Cleaner

If you want a professional-grade carbon removal for your intake valve, then STP Pro -Series is a perfect choice. This is by far the best GDI intake valve cleaner. Once used, the carbon buildup on the intake valve will disappear. It would look as if you have replaced the valve.

But unlike other carbon cleaners, this one will benefit your engine. By entirely dissolving the carbon soot, it leaves behind zero footprints. Moreover, while giving your machine the lost peak performance, it will make your engine outlive others of its kind. Remember, it’s cheaper to clean than replace.

What Sets This Apart

• Overall HP of the engine is increased
• Dissolves the harmful carbon buildup
• No external tools are required
• Works as a fuel stabilizer after carbon removal

Benefits

• Increases mileage and saves gas
• Engine life is increased due to reduced idling
• Each packing is enough to clean an entire engine
• Lifetime of the engine rises significantly

Drawbacks

• Instruction guidelines aren’t clear
• Application mechanism isn’t suitable for beginners

Verified User Review

We know this is the best carbon cleaner for intake valves because we experienced it first-hand. After using this, the engine was working as if it was brand new. The acceleration and mileage of the car were upgraded. But a downside is it leaves the intake valve vulnerable to future harsh carbon buildup.

Verdict

The best feature about the STP Pro-Series Car Intake Valve Cleaner is that it revives your engine. No matter what amount of carbon soot is deposited around the intake valve, it will dissolve the soot. And once done, it will leave behind a valve which would seem to be as good as new.

2.CRC GDI IVD Intake Valve & Turbo Cleaner

If you want a premium recommendation, then go for CRC. To be more specific, get the CRC GDI IVD intake valve & Turbo cleaner. This is a one-of-a-kind carbon removed as it not only dissolves the carbon but also prevents future accumulation. And the application is so easy that an amateur can use it like a professional.

Using this for routine maintenance will provide the best outcome. This cleaner isn’t specific to any GDI engine. So, using it for any GDI engine model is a-ok. But one thing to keep in mind is the quantity of it. Overusing it may cause opposite results.

What Sets This Apart

• Dissolves baked carbon within one hour of use
• Installation is easy and is done via the air intake system
• Perfect carbon cleaner for beginners
• Suitable for frequent and quick clean

Benefits

• Simple and easy to follow instructions
• It’s compatible with the fuel additives
• Precisely dissolves baked-on carbon soot
• Takes effect within an hour of application

Drawbacks

• Not suitable for pre-existing carbon deposits
• Overuse of this cleaner can accelerate the accumulation

Verified User Review

After using this for two successive treatments at about 1,500 miles apart, it’s safe to say that it works. We have faced no major issues while using it. The application procedure is fast and straightforward. But one thing to keep in mind is that it’s best suited for routine maintenance. Getting rid of pre-existing carbon is a bit time-consuming.

Verdict

Using the CRC GDI IVD just before a fuel change is the best way to use this cleaner. Doing so will help you get rid of the carbon soot and lessen the damage caused due to it. In other words, your engine’s lifetime will be extended. And with its easy application procedure, it’s the best carbon cleaner for intake valves.

3.Berryman 2611 Intake Valve and Combustion Chamber Cleaner

With a formula that includes PEA or Polyether Amine, Berryman 2611 is a carbon remover that suits professionals. It can clean all types of intake valves. PFI, TBI, GDI, just name it. The application procedure is simple and easy enough for a novice to follow. This versatility and usability make it one of its kind.

It can dissolve the accumulated carbon as if it were acid. But it won’t damage the engine or the intake system. Once it’s done with the work, your machine will be experiencing positive changes. These include increased acceleration and mileage.

What Sets This Apart

• Doesn’t affect oxygen sensor and catalytic converters
• Significantly increases the engine’s overall mileage
• Professional solvent that can be used even by a novice
• The solvent uses a one-for-all formula for versatility

Benefits

• All types of intake valves can be cleaned with it
• Dissolves the carbon soot effectively
• Engine’s health is kept intact
• Perfect for PFI, TBI, and GDI engines

Drawbacks

• Each pack of the solvent can’t be used more than once
• It can’t be used for diesel engines

Verified User Review

We found the application process suitable even for a novice. But this doesn’t mean that the product was of novice quality. In fact, it’s a professional-grade product. But there’s a bit of flaw with it. It can clean the intake valve perfectly as long as there are no holes. If there are holes, the pressure drops, and this makes the product ineffective.

Verdict

Being a professional product that even a novice can handle, it’s a product that’s adored by many. Moreover, it can be used to clean carbon for all types of intake valves. But the small quantity of each packaging isn’t suitable for multiple uses. So, if you don’t mind buying this product frequently, this is a perfect carbon remover.

4.Sierra 18-9570-0 Carbon Free Aerosol Cleaner

In the field of carbon removal, Sierra is a well-known name. They have tons of products that focus solely on carbon removal. One such product is their 18-9570-0 Carbon Free Aerosol Cleaner. With the help of this, you can dissolve the carbon buildup within your fuel intake with ease.

It can remove the carbon like an eraser erases a pencil mark. But the aerosol shaped can makes its application a bit tedious. Despite that, with the help of external tools, even a novice can apply it. It might not be as easy as other products on the list, but it can dissolve the carbon just as efficiently.

What Sets This Apart

• Designed to clean carbon and improve engine performance
• Cleans the entire fuel intake system, not just the valve
• It leaves a non-stick surface
• Suits both four and two-cycle engines

Benefits

• Removes gum, carbon deposits, and varnish
• Intake ports, pistons, and valves are thoroughly cleaned
• Dissolved carbon leaves no footprint
• Perfect for regular maintenance

Drawbacks

• External tools are required for the application
• Flammable and hazardous product

Verified User Review

Once we used it for our engine, the carbon deposits and gums were gone like magic. It worked like a charm. The application process was a bit tedious. That’s because external tools like a nozzle and an extension pipe were used. It also requires an extra fuel filter. Other than that, the solvent was able to remove the carbon buildup perfectly.

Verdict

Sierra is a brand known for its carbon removers, and this product is as effective as others on the list. It thoroughly dissolves the carbon buildup, gums, and even the varnish. And as the application point is the fuel intake, it cleans the valves, ports, and even the piston. So, for a thorough engine wash, this product is perfect.

5.Gumout 540023 Regan Direct Injection Intake Valve and Port Cleaner

For a GDI engine, carbon buildup on the intake ports and valves is unavoidable. But removing them isn’t. And to help you with that, Gumout has their carbon remover Gumout 540023 Regan Direct Injection. This product is an aerosol-type cleaner that’s to be applied directly to the intake system. And once used, it can dissolve all the carbon around the intake valve.

Using this will take care of the dirt along with the carbon. This cleans your exhaust and also makes it so that the engine is revitalized. But while using it for carbon removal, the application time has to be kept a note of. If not, then the metallic surfaces of the engine might get damaged.

What Sets This Apart

• Use pf Polyether-amine makes it unparallel
• Can be used for varieties of intake valve types
• Dissolves deposits on unpainted metallic parts swiftly
• Can be used even by an amateur

Benefits

• Removes the carbon along with the gum deposits
• Application process is “spray and go.”
• Restores the HP and gas mileage of the engine
• Clears up carburetors almost instantly

Drawbacks

• Can damage the valve stem
• External tools like the straw aren’t included

Verified User Review

After using it once, we saw that the car’s gas mileage jumped by two and a half miles per gallon. This is something that we didn’t see for other carbon removers on the list. And one of the best things is it can be used frequently. But one downside is it doesn’t include a straw. This makes it hard to be applied on tight spots.

Verdict

If you are responsible about the administration time of the carbon remover you use, then this is the perfect one. It’s easy to use and quick to dissolve the carbon soot.

6.ATP AT-100 Intake Blast Complete Intake System Cleaner

After taking a look at the fancy packing of ATP AT-100 Intake Blast Complete Intake System Cleaner, one might think it just looks good. But that isn’t the actual case. It’s the best carbon remover for not only the intake port but the entire intake system.

The fancy packaging is for it includes a vacuum hose and also a multi-adapter fitting. With the help of these additional tools, using the cleaner is child’s play, even for an amateur. The formula used for the product is smoke-free and catalytic converter safe. So using it to dissolve all the carbon is safe.

What Sets This Apart

• Doesn’t damage the catalytic converter if not in contact
• Multi-adapter fitting and vacuum hose are included
• Cleans the entire intake system
• Eliminates power loss, hard starting, and rough idling

Benefits

• Easy to apply the spray as the pipe is included
• Dissolves the carbon and oil stains perfectly
• Application guidelines are easy to follow
• Most suitable for fuel injected engines

Drawbacks

• Hazardous and flammable material
• Damages the catalytic convertor when in contact

Verified User Review

Out of all the intake valve carbon removers, this is the one that satisfied all our needs. It’s easy to use and works pretty fast. Moreover, this swiftness doesn’t hamper its efficiency. The entire intake system was cleaned as if the system was replaced with a new one. After use, take the car for a drive, and you are sure to feel the difference.

Verdict

If you are a professional and want to use something fancy, then ATP AT-100 is the one to go for. It looks fancy and also does the job. After using it, there will be no carbon trace within the intake system.

7.Liqui Moly 2001 Valve Clean

Liqui Moly 2001 Valve Clean can take care of heavy carbon deposits. It’s a solvent that works slowly but effectively. Using it for a daily use vehicle is perfect. The slow carbon dissolving mechanism makes the engine smooth even during traffic jams. Once it starts taking effect, the carbon will vanish with ease.

The application procedure is simple. So even a novice can use it and make the intake valve carbon-free. But one thing to look out for isn’t to agitate the solvent. Otherwise, the container can explode.

What Sets This Apart

• Lowers the emission of pollutant gas
• Not only protects against corrosion but also carburetor icing
• Pinging, knocking, and dieseling is stopped by using this remover
• Works slowly but does a perfect job

Benefits

• Prevents carburetor icing and corrosion
• Marginal improvement on the mileage per gallon
• Removes rough idling for a smoother drive
• Relatively more environment friendly

Drawbacks

• It takes time to show its effectiveness
• Can’t prevent or decrease future carbon buildup

Verified User Review

Being comparatively cheaper than other items on the list, this carbon remover may not seem the best. But as we used it, we were forced to change our opinion. It’s an excellent carbon remover that’s cheap and efficient. The casing is a bit fragile. Other than that, this remover can dissolve the carbon as if it means business.

Verdict

If you live in a crowded area, Liqui Moly 2001 Valve Cleaner is the optimal solution for your carbon problems. It dissolves the carbon over time and also reduces rough idling.

8.Royal Purple 11853 Yellow Max-Blast Intake Valve Cleaner

Royal Purple has quite a few carbon removers under their name. But among all the removers, their 11853 Yellow Max-Blast Intake Valve Cleaner has fame of its own. The unique nozzle head design makes it perfect for getting to the hard spots.

And once applied, it works instantly. The carbon deposit that was accumulated over time is dissolved almost immediately. Doing so increases the engine’s fuel efficiency significantly.

What Sets This Apart

• Works almost instantly after application
• Boosts engine health and HP
• PEA makes it suitable for both gasoline and diesel engines
• Increases fuel efficiency by 3.8%

Benefits

• Dissolves the buildup on intake valves
• Polyether Amine or PEA makes it versatile
• Perfect remover for direct injection
• Reduces engine corrosion

Drawbacks

• The Cap of the spray isn’t optimally designed
• Application is a bit complex

Verified User Review

Once we used the solvent to clean the carbon buildup, it took effect immediately. But as the nozzle for the spray was weirdly designed, it was a bit tedious to apply. However, after the application fuel efficiency of the engine increased significantly.

Verdict

Out of all the Royal Purple products, 11853 Yellow Max-Blast Intake Valve Cleaner works like a charm. It’s swift and efficient. As no carbon soot is left behind, it’s an optimal choice.

Things To Consider Before Buying a Carbon Cleaner for Intake Valves

Now that you know about the best Intake valve cleaners, you must be itching to get one for your car. If one wants to make their engine last long, it’s a must. But there are a few factors that you need to keep in mind before getting one. Here are the factors that you should pay attention to:

Eco-Friendliness

The main aim of removing the carbon buildup is to make the engine healthy. Doing so will also make the exhaust gas cleaner. And most of the carbon cleaners aim to do so. But a few of them are detrimental to the catalytic converter. It’s best to get a carbon remover that isn’t harmful to the catalytic converter, as it will help your engine be eco-friendly.

Effective Material

Some carbon cleaners target particular surfaces. They’ll clean the metallic surface from all carbon soot but will leave the varnish or gum. But a good one will always take care of all types of impurities over the metal surface of the engine. It doesn’t discriminate among the pollutants. For better results, get a versatile carbon cleaner.

Type of Spray

The application procedure for all the carbon cleaners for the intake valve is the same. All are to be connected to the fuel intake. But the spray they use to accomplish that task is different. So, get a carbon cleaner that has a spray head suitable for you.

Quantity

Not all carbon cleaners have the same amount of solvent in them. This makes different brands last different duration. So if you are looking for a carbon cleaner that will last for your long drive, then get a higher capacity model. Otherwise, it’s better to get ones of smaller quantity as you can change them frequently.

Are Carbon Cleaners for Intake Valves Worth It?

For a vehicle to run, a combustion reaction is a must. Without it, the engine won’t be able to supply the required torque. But a serious downside to this reaction is the carbon that’s found as a by-product. There’s no way to get rid of it. It is part and parcel of this reaction. So, it is bound to be accumulated within the engine.

Now a small or shallow quantity of this carbon deposit isn’t that much of a problem. But as time passes, the amount of carbon increases. In fact, as the engine gets old, the accumulation rate increases exponentially. It accumulates on hard-to-clean edges, and one such part is the intake valve.

This is the valve that maintains the fuel intake for the combustion chamber of the engine. If carbon deposits around the valve and clog it up, the fuel intake decreases. This damages the combustion chamber and also accelerates carbon accumulation. Getting rid of this carbon manually means getting professional help. For this reason, it’s wiser to use a carbon cleaner.

The carbon cleaners for intake valves are administered via the fuel intake. They dissolve all of the existing carbon within the fuel system. And once used, they also decelerate the rate of carbon buildup. So, for a healthy and powerful engine, carbon cleaners for intake valves are definitely worth it.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cause for carbon build up within the engine?

For any combustion reaction, carbon is an unintended by-product. So, the combustion caused within an engine is no exception. Thus, this by-product accumulates over the smooth metal surface. A minute quantity of it isn’t a fact. But as time passes, this buildup gets heavier, and this damages the engine.

What are the ways to remove carbon from valves?

Accumulation of carbon near the intake valve can’t be hindered. So, it is better to remove it whenever it forms. One tedious way is to take the engine apart and manually remove the carbon with a brush and soap. But the most efficient way is to use a carbon cleaner that’s designed specifically for intake valves.

What indicates the formation of carbon in engine?

A clean engine runs smoothly. When the carbon deposition gets too much to handle, the machine starts vibrating more than usual. This happens even when the engine is idle. The vehicle also jerks when stopped. These are significant indications of carbon formation in the machine.

Is it possible to remove carbon deposits without professional help?

Depending on the carbon cleaner you choose, it’s possible to use it without professional help. But suppose you are using it for the first time. In that case, it’s recommended to do it under the supervision of a professional. Doing so will ensure your own and your engine’s safety.

How frequently should you clean the carbon deposits?

The frequency of a carbon cleaning treatment is dependent on the engine and fuel type. If the fuel used is low grade, then the motor will require frequent cleaning. The same is true if the engine of the vehicle is an old one. On the contrary, a new engine and higher-grade fuel will require less frequent carbon cleaning.

Final Words

Heavy carbon buildup on any part of an engine is disastrous. And if it’s around the intake valve, it spells death for the machine. To get read of this, the best way is to use carbon removers. You can choose from tons, but after reading our article, you’ll indeed select the best carbon cleaner for intake valves.

If you are still unsure which suits your car the best, then look at your requirements. Then cross-check with the products we listed. Doing so will help you save your engine from an early death.