Will a diesel engine deep clean help improve my MPG?
I have a 2011 Nissan X-Trail I have owned since new. It's approaching 130,000 miles and on long journeys I've noticed my MPG has dropped considerably. Is it worth getting my engine deep cleaned by one of the systems that hooks the engine up to a machine or could it do more harm than good?
Asked on 27 October 2025 by Derek Younger
Answered by
David Ross
If your fuel consumption is increasing it would be worth considering if worn out or failing components are responsible before looking at engine cleaning. Blocked injectors, turbo issues, dirty air or fuel filters or EGR problems can all contribute to increased fuel consumption. Engine cleaning services usually focus on either the fuel system, the air intake or the DPF (if fitted) which can become affected by carbon or other deposits. The quality of the results may vary and we would recommend using a respected specialist, but any improvement would be slight if there are other issues.
Similar questions
I want to buy a used car for my company. How to work out the fuel / electric cost so I can compare?
Shell V-Power diesel at our local Shell station is now a massive 22p per litre more than the standard diesel at the same site. Why is this? Is there no control on what franchisees can charge? And are...
Whatever happened to the diesel claims which we were all asked to put in? Pogust Goodhead does send the occasional email but this has been going on for years now. Has it all been a big scam?
Related models
Excellent drive on tarmac and very competent off road, large boot, plenty of standard equipment.

