MAY 2023 AFTERMARKET 43 be taken to maintain the condition of vehicles currently in service, much of which kept the country moving during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. “We’re finding that due to this issue, combined with the current economic climate, garages and fleets are futureproofing by taking out a TerraClean treatment on their vehicles, optimising total cost of ownership (TCO). This can potentially avoid inflated repair and servicing costs associated with a bigger issue but also prevent the vehicle being off the road.” He continued: “The in process involves using an ultrahighly refined fuel that engines run on via specifically tuned cleaning machines to remove carbon deposits and contaminants such as gums, tars and varnishes from injection systems. By cleaning out a vehicle’s engine and injection system, improvements in fuel efficiency and reductions in carbon emissions can be delivered. In fieldbased, independently verified tests carried out by TerraClean approved service centres and overseen by automotive academic Sean Galvin, senior lecturer in automotive engineering at Derby University, 95% of motorists surveyed noticed a positive difference in how their car performed following a TerraClean treatment, and 80% reported their engines running quieter.” Phil added: “Demand is increasing across TerraClean’s thriving network of DPF cleaning and engine decarbonising specialists, which saw its numbers grow to more than 500 locations throughout the UK and Ireland in 2022.” For more information, visit: www.terraclean.co.uk Increasingly complex area You need to make sure your additives and cleaning products are from well-known sources, and are suitable. When it comes to engine oil additives, Mike Bewsey, Chairman of the independent trade body for lubricants, the Verification of Lubricant Specifications (VLS), has concerns: “The cost-of-living crisis has hit motorists hard. It’s understandable that drivers will look to make savings where they can. This might mean turning to additives, choosing cheaper oils or putting off engine oil tops ups or changes completely. All of these risk damaging the vehicle, resulting in possible short-term savings but long-term costs. Drivers might be clocking up fewer miles, trying to save fuel costs, but frequent short trips can be even more detrimental to the oil than higher mileage. This is due to the accumulation of water and fuel and the formation of sludge during Stop/Start and cold phases. Using quality engine oil of the required viscosity and performance specifications, changed in line with the OEM schedule, is the best approach to protect the vehicle. “Engine oil is an increasingly complex area. Modern vehicle engines require sophisticated lubricants using advanced chemistry. Even the slightest change in the formulation has the potential to cause engine damage. Aftermarket engine oil additives risk interfering with the lubricant’s ability to cool, clean or protect moving parts, which could result in unnecessary expense to customers and a loss of reputation for workshops. OEMs set oil specifications and oil change schedules for a reason. They know their engines, how they run on certain fuels and in specific regions, and they know how the engine oil, as well as other consumables, perform over time and mileage. Using the correct engine oil is essential. We recommend referring to the original vehicle owner’s handbook or the servicing and warranty booklet to identify the right engine oil. Looking beyond the viscosity specification – eg SAE 5W30 – to specific ACEA and OEM standards ensures that the lubricant is fit for purpose in that specific vehicle. “ Mike added: “Online lubricant databases can also help confirm the right oil for each vehicle based on the registration. They sometimes offer a choice of brands so that workshops can make their own selection, depending on local availability or their personal preference. If in doubt, always consult the vehicle manufacturer.” For more information, visit: www.ukla-vls.org.uk www.aftermarketonline.net " $% &%$#"! $ GDI Injector %#% %$ # $ Cleaner $ $ % " % % $ " # % $ # # $ Email: info@kalimex.co Call: For more information: % o.uk Above: Fuel System Clean from MOTUL
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