Engine Flush Questions
Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jun 2015
Posts: 1,523
Likes: 85
From: New Jersey
2010 E550 P2 w/AMG Sport Package + Pano, 2015 Nissan Pathfinder
Engine Flush Questions
I got around to getting my Service B done at a Indy yesterday and an engine flush was recommended. I have about 121k miles now and I was about 1100 miles overdue.
I've had my car at Benz at least 5 times this year. For scans, transmission check up, a multi point inspection, Spring Clinic and a Service A. Those extra visits were while I was trying to diagnose some misfiring I had earlier in the year.
This was my 1st time getting a overstated oil change lol beyond the recommended mileage.
Has anyone else experienced the need for an engine flush? Would 1100 miles overdue bring about that need?
I would've assumed if it was needed now one of my previous visits to MB would've shown the need for one in the future. The previous Service A would've shown the need or future need just guessing.
Also I noticed an obvious increase in power after the engine flush. The difference was as noticeable as if I was in sports mode even in comfort mode to describe the difference.
I've had my car at Benz at least 5 times this year. For scans, transmission check up, a multi point inspection, Spring Clinic and a Service A. Those extra visits were while I was trying to diagnose some misfiring I had earlier in the year.
This was my 1st time getting a overstated oil change lol beyond the recommended mileage.
Has anyone else experienced the need for an engine flush? Would 1100 miles overdue bring about that need?
I would've assumed if it was needed now one of my previous visits to MB would've shown the need for one in the future. The previous Service A would've shown the need or future need just guessing.
Also I noticed an obvious increase in power after the engine flush. The difference was as noticeable as if I was in sports mode even in comfort mode to describe the difference.
Last edited by jahquan3; Nov 13, 2016 at 08:17 AM.
Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jun 2015
Posts: 1,523
Likes: 85
From: New Jersey
2010 E550 P2 w/AMG Sport Package + Pano, 2015 Nissan Pathfinder
Just to add, after some research it's usually never recommended by dealerships. Often it is just oil change techs who advise it should be done. I'm just curious since my 550 was running great I thought before but sheesh I have a new car all of a sudden ha ha 😂😂
Senior Member
Joined: Jun 2012
Posts: 431
Likes: 44
From: Portsmouth, VA
2010 E350, Sold 1998 C230
They dump some additive in the oil, let it idle for a bit and then dump the oil and change it for new with a new filter. The additive is supposed to loosen up sludge and carbon and then you dump it out.
From what I found online, no manufacturer recommends it, its only the oil change jockeys that try and sell it. It may do more damage than it helps, so says some of the sites I found. HTH.
From what I found online, no manufacturer recommends it, its only the oil change jockeys that try and sell it. It may do more damage than it helps, so says some of the sites I found. HTH.
Member
Joined: Jan 2015
Posts: 151
Likes: 25
From: Connecticut
2010 E550
At 17,000 miles my oil still had life in it, so I doubt you're experiencing issues from running an 11,100 mile interval. In the future, you can always test your oil so you don't have to rely on anyone's opinion.
Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jun 2015
Posts: 1,523
Likes: 85
From: New Jersey
2010 E550 P2 w/AMG Sport Package + Pano, 2015 Nissan Pathfinder
They dump some additive in the oil, let it idle for a bit and then dump the oil and change it for new with a new filter. The additive is supposed to loosen up sludge and carbon and then you dump it out.
From what I found online, no manufacturer recommends it, its only the oil change jockeys that try and sell it. It may do more damage than it helps, so says some of the sites I found. HTH.
From what I found online, no manufacturer recommends it, its only the oil change jockeys that try and sell it. It may do more damage than it helps, so says some of the sites I found. HTH.
Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jun 2015
Posts: 1,523
Likes: 85
From: New Jersey
2010 E550 P2 w/AMG Sport Package + Pano, 2015 Nissan Pathfinder
How do you test it? Also I wonder if the increase in power is just my mind playing tricks on me but I swear today it felt legit again.
Trending Topics
Member
Joined: Jan 2015
Posts: 151
Likes: 25
From: Connecticut
2010 E550
MB World Stories
The Best of Mercedes & AMG
New Mercedes-AMG SUVs Arrive With NEW V8 Engine: 12 Things You Need to Know
Verdad Gallardo
8 Oddball Mercedes Ideas That Actually Made it to Production
Verdad Gallardo
Dubai Tuner Gives the Mercedes G-Class An Entirely New Look
Verdad Gallardo
Six Gift Ideas Your AMG Loving Dad or Grad Will Cherish
7 Craziest Things AMG Gas Ever Built
Verdad Gallardo
New Electric Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door Coupe Unveiled: 10 Things You Need to Know
Verdad Gallardo
6 Mercedes Models That Did NOT Age Well (But Are Somehow Still Cool)
Verdad Gallardo
Manual Mercedes? 6 Times Sindelfingen Let Drivers Have All The Fun
Verdad Gallardo
Mercedes SLR McLaren 722 S Is Extremely Rare Example Modified by McLaren
Verdad Gallardo
Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jun 2015
Posts: 1,523
Likes: 85
From: New Jersey
2010 E550 P2 w/AMG Sport Package + Pano, 2015 Nissan Pathfinder
I use these guys: http://www.blackstone-labs.com/
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Feb 2014
Posts: 6,190
Likes: 1,550
From: MA
2008 E350 4Matic, 2011 E350 4matic
It's your butt dyno. Engines run at fixed air/fuel ratios. Colder weather makes for more power. Been getting cooler here of late. Lots of variables that you can't control, humidity is also a factor, I think higher humidity translates to less power as water molecules take up space so there's less oxygen molecules. Now we're into cooler, dry weather. I think the extra power is from a lighter wallet. Then there's also winter/summer gas, running with a full or empty tank, just too many variables.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Oct 2015
Posts: 1,583
Likes: 293
2019 E300
An engine flush is like a shock treatment, most of time the outcome is positive, but there is always the chance that it may open up some leaks where the old gunk acting as a stopper. Does the indy mechanic offer a guarantee that it will not cause any problems, if so, how long is the guarantee?
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jul 2013
Posts: 3,133
Likes: 134
From: Down Unda
W204 C63 AMG, W212 E250 CGI, C207 E250 CGI
I remember back in the day I use em on my W123s and W124s. never had any problems whatsoever. but then again those cars were built like tanks so yeah...
^+1 on these replies...
An engine flush is really a type of snake oil. Most manufacturers don't recommend them. It probably won't do any harm except lighten your wallet. Manufacturer spend billions designing engines. Those additive companies are small mom and pop places by comparison. I wouldn't trust any of those in my engine and it will run fine without them. You might resort to them if it was a poorly maintained engine or if it were on it's last legs and it didn't matter if it worked or not. The real reason they get recommended by the mechanic is that it tends to pad their bottom line, they're around $5-$10 at the auto parts store. I've never really run into a legit mechanic that knew what they were talking about that actually recommended it. Plus what does a mechanic know about how long the engine will last anyway? Their expertise is making repairs, not designing chemicals or engines.
Last edited by beejAMG; Nov 14, 2016 at 05:31 PM.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Feb 2014
Posts: 6,190
Likes: 1,550
From: MA
2008 E350 4Matic, 2011 E350 4matic
An engine flush is really a type of snake oil. Most manufacturers don't recommend them. It probably won't do any harm except lighten your wallet. Manufacturer spend billions designing engines. Those additive companies are small mom and pop places by comparison. I wouldn't trust any of those in my engine and it will run fine without them. You might resort to them if it was a poorly maintained engine or if it were on it's last legs and it didn't matter if it worked or not. The real reason they get recommended by the mechanic is that it tends to pad their bottom line, they're around $5-$10 at the auto parts store. I've never really run into a legit mechanic that knew what they were talking about that actually recommended it. Plus what does a mechanic know about how long the engine will last anyway? Their expertise is making repairs, not designing chemicals or engines.
Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jun 2015
Posts: 1,523
Likes: 85
From: New Jersey
2010 E550 P2 w/AMG Sport Package + Pano, 2015 Nissan Pathfinder
It's your butt dyno. Engines run at fixed air/fuel ratios. Colder weather makes for more power. Been getting cooler here of late. Lots of variables that you can't control, humidity is also a factor, I think higher humidity translates to less power as water molecules take up space so there's less oxygen molecules. Now we're into cooler, dry weather. I think the extra power is from a lighter wallet. Then there's also winter/summer gas, running with a full or empty tank, just too many variables.
Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jun 2015
Posts: 1,523
Likes: 85
From: New Jersey
2010 E550 P2 w/AMG Sport Package + Pano, 2015 Nissan Pathfinder
An engine flush is like a shock treatment, most of time the outcome is positive, but there is always the chance that it may open up some leaks where the old gunk acting as a stopper. Does the indy mechanic offer a guarantee that it will not cause any problems, if so, how long is the guarantee?
He showed me the old oil somewhat dripping out of the old filter. It looked blacker then I'd expect. He said putting fresh oil in would only keep it looking that way. He then said I promise a engine flush would remedy that.
Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jun 2015
Posts: 1,523
Likes: 85
From: New Jersey
2010 E550 P2 w/AMG Sport Package + Pano, 2015 Nissan Pathfinder
To add a detail I forgot to mention previously is that I had to add a quart of oil sparsely over the past 2 plus months or so. I got the "Check oil at next refueling" message during that period.
My car burning some oil was identified and checked off at the clinic and a previous visit before to MB as normal operations.
In my experience only AMG owners have mentioned this as normal to me based on a close friend's account plus the forum.
I'm wondering if that is the issue. FYI no leak of oil to be seen of an obvious nature. Even the SA alluded to such and said everything checked out.
My car burning some oil was identified and checked off at the clinic and a previous visit before to MB as normal operations.
In my experience only AMG owners have mentioned this as normal to me based on a close friend's account plus the forum.
I'm wondering if that is the issue. FYI no leak of oil to be seen of an obvious nature. Even the SA alluded to such and said everything checked out.
Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jun 2015
Posts: 1,523
Likes: 85
From: New Jersey
2010 E550 P2 w/AMG Sport Package + Pano, 2015 Nissan Pathfinder
I'm just interested and somewhat happy so far. I figured the community might provide some insight. Guess I was the only one to bite on the pitch lol
Last edited by jahquan3; Nov 15, 2016 at 09:13 PM.
Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jun 2015
Posts: 1,523
Likes: 85
From: New Jersey
2010 E550 P2 w/AMG Sport Package + Pano, 2015 Nissan Pathfinder
Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jun 2015
Posts: 1,523
Likes: 85
From: New Jersey
2010 E550 P2 w/AMG Sport Package + Pano, 2015 Nissan Pathfinder
Any insight is welcome. I appreciate it @BeejAmg. How's the Mustang riding?
Last edited by jahquan3; Nov 15, 2016 at 09:22 PM.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jul 2013
Posts: 3,133
Likes: 134
From: Down Unda
W204 C63 AMG, W212 E250 CGI, C207 E250 CGI
I dont think a single engine oil flush can do enough damage (if any) so i wouldnt stress about it. Ours cars are engineered to withstand more than that. Not like Mustangs. Hahaha jk just trying to segway to that topic. Unfortunately for me, the mustang deal didnt work out so well. They were low balling my car too much so i walked away. Prolly try to sell the sedan privately for now but until i find a deal thatll make me happy, the Mustang dream can wait.
Super Member
Joined: May 2015
Posts: 600
Likes: 45
From: Minneapolis, MN/Breckenridge, CO
2010 E550 4Matic Sport P2
I know from reading up on the Audi forums there are multiple types of engine flushes. One if I recall basically pressurized in the engine and circulates than the flush is flushed out and is supposedly extremely effective in engines with sludge problems. This is typically done at a dealer or well equipped shop and cost a couple hundred dollars. This is not the typical sea foam type of additive.....
Last edited by Abrown3mtg; Nov 15, 2016 at 09:47 PM.
Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jun 2015
Posts: 1,523
Likes: 85
From: New Jersey
2010 E550 P2 w/AMG Sport Package + Pano, 2015 Nissan Pathfinder
I dont think a single engine oil flush can do enough damage (if any) so i wouldnt stress about it. Ours cars are engineered to withstand more than that. Not like Mustangs. Hahaha jk just trying to segway to that topic. Unfortunately for me, the mustang deal didnt work out so well. They were low balling my car too much so i walked away. Prolly try to sell the sedan privately for now but until i find a deal thatll make me happy, the Mustang dream can wait.
Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jun 2015
Posts: 1,523
Likes: 85
From: New Jersey
2010 E550 P2 w/AMG Sport Package + Pano, 2015 Nissan Pathfinder
I know from reading up on the Audi forums there are multiple types of engine flushes. One if I recall basically pressurized in the engine and circulates than the flush is flushed out and is supposedly extremely effective in engines with sludge problems. This is typically done at a dealer or well equipped shop and cost a couple hundred dollars. This is not the typical sea foam type of additive.....
This time the never rev'd the car just left it idling and there was no smoke or anything like that.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Oct 2015
Posts: 1,583
Likes: 293
2019 E300
On a Fusion I had a few years back I had a seafoam type of treatment done to it. Where they pulled the car outside of the bay, poured some kind of additive in the engine and rev'd the car hard for a few seconds. This made a huge cloud of white smoke all around the car for a a few more seconds.
This time the never rev'd the car just left it idling and there was no smoke or anything like that.
This time the never rev'd the car just left it idling and there was no smoke or anything like that.
That's a different type of cleaning, that is for carbon build up in the intake system and the valves, its a pretty common procedure.
