Shell Study: 9 out of 10 Mechanics Grapple With Engine Deposits

These deposits can occur in all engine technologies and can impact the efficiency and performance of the vehicle, particularly in modern engine technologies where higher pressures and operating temperatures can lead to deposits forming in critical engine parts, such as fuel injectors.

According to a recent survey of Hungarian auto mechanics, on average, 4 out of 10 consumers seek their assistance with engine problems caused by deposits. A third of those surveyed experience this issue monthly (33.3%), and nearly a third do so weekly (30.7%). In addition to increased fuel consumption, reduced engine life, and increased emissions, auto mechanics most frequently cite a decrease in engine performance as a consequence of deposits.

Unfortunately, deposits can also lead to more significant failures, with more than a third of mechanics citing complete engine failure as a more severe outcome. Half of those surveyed estimated that the cost of repairing engine defects caused by deposits begins in the region of HUF 100,000, whereas nearly 20% estimated that car owners could incur costs of up to HUF 1 million.

Simultaneously, the overwhelming majority of surveyed professionals reported that their customers' knowledge of the risks associated with deposits is either inadequate or non-existent. A third of respondents believe it is simple to prevent the build-up of performance-robbing deposits on vital engine parts. Three-quarters of auto mechanics would recommend premium fuels to their consumers to maintain engine cleanliness.

István Kapitány, global executive VP, Shell Mobility commented, “Shell V-Power fuels were first introduced over 20 years ago and are now one of the best-selling performance fuels on the market, chosen by 20% of our fuel customers globally. While electric vehicle charging and alternative fuels now make up a rapidly growing part of our business, petrol and diesel vehicles will still be driven for years to come. Our Shell V-Power fuels allow both older and new internal combustion engine vehicles to perform better than any fuel we’ve previously developed.”

Shell argues that extensive testing has shown that consistent use of the improved Shell V-Power fuels can improve engine performance, and prevent the build-up of deposits on vital engine components. The company has also ensured that all of the chemicals in these formulations are designed to work effectively with fuels with higher levels of bio-content.