I drive a 2001 Expedition Eddie Bauer 5.4L V8 with around 193k currently. I’m having some idle and acceleration problems but no pending or stored codes. I had someone recommend putting fuel system cleaner (They recommended Chevron Techron). My question is- Are fuel system cleaners (like Techron for example) safe to use? Do they cause damage to different parts of the engine or vehicle while trying to solve other issues? If recommended to use (or if it’s not going to damage anything by using it) what fuel cleaners does everyone recommend? What’s your go to cleaner and how often do you use it?
Techron fuel system cleaner is an excellent product. Chevron makes the GM fuel system cleaner under license for GM - which means it has been tested and proven safe.
I have used the product for years, although I buy top tier fuel often.
In the late 1990’s and early 2000’s - GM issued several TSB’s recommending using the product to eliminate inaccurate fuel gauge readings caused by sulfur deposits on the fuel sending units, from the gasoline.
Since you are having drivability issues. I would suggest using two treatments according to the label direction (two fuel tanks full). The bottles are sold in 12 and 20 ounce sizes, and state on them how many fuel tank gallons they will treat. Once you add the cleaner and fill up the tank, do not add more fuel until the level drops to at least 1/4 or less.
Several national auto part store chains often run specials on the cleaner (buy one - get one free). I often buy them on sale, to avoid paying full price when I am ready to use it.
