john1r

For my 7 year old Q5 (around 50k miles or so), should I ever use anything like:

Chevron 65740 Techron Concentrate Plus Fuel System Cleaner or BG 44K Fuel System Cleaner

My Audi dealer mentioned it to me at one point, but wasn't sure if they were just trying to sell me on a service or if it's a good idea to use it every now and then (and if so, what's 'now and then'?).

Thanks!

uberwgn

If you are using a Top Tier fuel, you probably don't need it.

FWIW, Audi/VAG has their own injector cleaner. A product like Techron would likely provide some minimal benefit and it's e-z to obtain.

john1r

Thank you. And no harm in using it even if I don't really need it?

Bob Petruska

I put that Techron version in every 6 months, in every vehicle I own, and ever owned since they made it.

It can't harm a thing, but may do some good!

shokhead

BG 44K Fuel System Cleaner

I use it when i'm going on a long trip where I'll be driving for hours at a time.

Redd

As uber said. In theory Chevron gas has enough "techron" in it to do the job, and any TopTier gas should also have the same. No harm (other than the price) if you use Techron once or twice a year anyway. The bigger bottle is usually more of a bargain, just use half. And if you are letting the vehicle sit for long periods, and the gas in your tank is going more than 90 days old? You can add StaBil or a similar fuel stabilizer, which prevents breakdowns and gumming. As long as you're turning over the fuel in your tank every 60 days, that's not needed.

Bad Andy

I have used techron in my car occasionally. It doesn't really seam to help, but doesn't hurt either. Maybe once or twice a year. I have never had or needed the de-carbonizing of the 3.2L motor even after 212,000 miles, so maybe it is doing something good, but I really doubt it.

bpp

Heard about BG products years ago, several garages used it each and every service back in the day.

uberwgn

Well, the tin foil hat crowd would tell you that some of the cleaner ends up in the crankcase, dilutes the oil and causes myriad wear issues. They suggest running the injector cleaner just before doing an oil change.

Bob Petruska