GDI cleaning service at high mileage

Question

Hi folks, I have a 2015 Ford F-150 2.7 eco boost with 144K miles where I’ve never cleaned the GDI intake or installed a catch can on. Am I risking the possibility of damaging the engine or super charger by trying a cleaning agent at this point.

Justin Shepherd · Accepted Answer

Posted by: @brokemichigander Am I risking the possibility of damaging the engine or super charger by trying a cleaning agent at this point.  EcoBoost engines come with turbochargers, not superchargers. If that engine were supercharged, any time the engine is running, the supercharger is cramming more air into the cylinders than a naturally aspirated engine, and you would notice another pulley on the serpentine belt.  There are products made specifically for GDI engines.  https://shop.advanceautoparts.com/p/crc-gdi-ivd-intake-valve-turbo-cleaner-11-wt.-oz.-05319/11019388-p?product_channel=local&store=5721&adtype=pla_with_promotion&product_channel=local&store_code=5721&&&&&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjwmYCzBhA6EiwAxFwfgMND4sv9itcNn7k_RGrgqz4kef6lonOedudDCO9P77jl-V-k3jNOzBoCEWYQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds I used to use CRC chlorine-free brake cleaner to clean parts before plating them, and they've always come out fine.

Justin Shepherd · Answer

Posted by: @brokemichigander Okay I’m humbled. Back to my original question, do I run a risk of damaging my valves, pistons, rings or turbo chargers by breaking loose a large chunk of debris from using a cleaning solvent agent after a buildup from extended accumulation? I’m a moron, an idiot and inexperienced, please help. Help No, you don't. CRC is a spray cleaner that dissolves carbon deposits. And, you're not a moron, you came to us for help instead of trusting possibly shady mechanics with your vehicle. :)

Justin Shepherd · Answer

Posted by: @brokemichigander Oh yeah and my issue stems from the code p0299 super charger underboost which appears on the scanner. That could be your turbocharger is starting to wear out. 2.7L engines weren't really made to pull a full-size truck, especially if you've done a lot of towing; my 1999 Ford Ranger has 0.3L more displacement than your truck, and that truck is full-size. My Ranger is a compact. The only thing making that engine pull like it does is the turbocharger. Here's a link to what I found online regarding that code.   P0299 Trouble Code - Diagnosis, Causes, Symptoms & How to Fix (autozone.com)