Hello!
I have a 2012 Hyundai Genesis. My particular Genesis is an automatic with the 3.8 V6 engine and it has roughly 70,000 Miles.
Being a car guy I'm always looking at Scotty's videos as well as other very helpful channels. Now, I've come across the very global understanding that Oil catch cans can be of very good use for those GDI engines because of the carbon build up that overtime naturally happen within these engines.
I've heard that it is mostly useful for those old GDI engines that really embody that flaw because of their design, now, my car is not really new, it has roughly 8 years now. So, my question is whether or not would I really need to buy an Oil catch-can for my particular model. I've heard newer ones don't NEED it as the older ones do. Would I really benefit from one?
Thanks for taking the time to read and answer!
All DI-only engines are susceptible to carbon build up on the backs of the valves over time. With some models/engines it happens sooner, with others later. This topic can be controversial on some car forums whether to use or not, but all my research and understanding of how things work suggest it’s a good idea to put one on. If the engine has port injection only or it has both port and direct injection (like Toyota/Lexus and some Fords), then you don’t need it. However, realize it’s one more maintenance item to keep track of (the can will collect fluid and needs to be emptied out periodically). Also, if you are under warranty and you go to a dealer it can void it so be careful. In some states that need Smog it can cause Inspection to fail as well. In the latter cases you just have to remove it completely before taking it in, and then afterwards put back on.
I appreciate you taking the time to answer!
So, in my state I won't really have a problem with smog but taking it out and putting it back in when done is really not that big of a headache when realizing you are helping your engine run better.
I just got it recently, so I wanna jump into every bit of preventive maintenance I can lay my hands on, so that I can ensure the life of that vehicle. I think getting it is the better option.
Since you have the Hyundai 3.8L Lambda II V6 engine - which is direct injection only - and planning on keeping it for a long time putting lots of mileage on it then it’s a good idea to put a good quality catch can on. Not all catch cans are created equal.