Hello,
Yesterday I took my 2020 Equinox in for a routine oil change to the dealership. Its a lease vehicle. Lease matures at the end of this month (March). When I returned to get my vehicle and was reading the paperwork while standing at the window ready to pay, I saw "flush" on the paperwork. I know what a flush is and I know the intended purpose, which confounds me because this vehicle barely has 6k miles on it, I work from home. No one could or would give me an explanation as to why this was done without asking first. And thr kicker? I wasn't charged for it on the paperwork. My only thought is because it's a lease, and technically, I don't own the vehicle. This wouldn't bother me, but in this case it does because I've been considering buying out this lease at the end of this month. I know that flushes have the potential to cause quite a bit of damage so now I'm wondering if buying out is an option. I'd also like to know if there's an average time after which a flush is performed, the vehicle would start showing issues? Days? Weeks? Etc.
Many Thanks,
-R
What did they flush? Coolant? Transmission fluid? Brake fluid?
Typically when it's related to an oil change it's an engine flush, isn't it? It doesn't specify on the paperwork. It says FLUSH (ES) CPC.
I have no idea what "(ES) CPC" refers to and a quick internet search doesn't reveal anything useful. Usually an "engine flush" is not a procedure like power-flushing a transmission or brakes, it's an additive put into the oil that purports to clean out sludge. Not recommended, but it's really not clear what they did.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c83HG0Ip1AM
I'll call the dealership and ask for specifics and get back to you.
It’s a waste of money, but shouldn’t cause any damage. I wouldn’t worry too much.
Well the kicker is they didn't even charge me for it. Any idea how long after a flush the vehicle may start showing issues? Thsnks
Like I said, I can’t think of any issues
I did an additional quick search on Google and this is what I found which aligns with what I've been told: Engine flushes can damage your engine. The chemicals in flushing additives can damage engine seals, leading to expensive repairs in the event of an oil leak. These chemicals can also damage engine bearings; turbochargers and other oil-lubricated components.
Sure maybe if you used them frequently or left the chemicals in there for long periods of time. But brief exposure is fine. You can find anything you want on the internet. Take it with a grain of salt.