Originally Posted By: PandaBear
Most importantly fix any problem that's throwing code (i.e. ignition coil, O2 sensor, stuck EGR, bad plugs, clogged PCV, etc).
Does it use MAF sensor? If so, clean it up. If you have to smog check in your area, and your last smog result is on the high side close to the passing limit especially on lower speed (i.e. 15mph), replace the upstream O2 sensors. Clean the idle air control valve. Dump a bottle or two of techrons / Gumout Regain / any other PEA cleaner in the tank. Replace spark plugs if they are worn out.
there are no codes oddly enough.. Just that weird ticking noise when he gets on it and that smell. I beleive it does have a MAF. He's exempt from emissions for whatever reason, they sent a letter stating he was a while back. It even surprised him, I forgot the reason why. I'll have to find the IAC valve, what should I use to clean it and the MAF? ... MAF cleaner? lol Double dosing the cleaner in the tank is okay??
Originally Posted By: bigjl
There is a very effective product called CataClean in Europe.
It is designed to clean out Cats in diesels and petrols.
You can use it as a maintenance additive or to help you get through the annual emissions checks if they are borderline.
Has been tested by many magazines and worked a treat on the BiLs 2.2 Ecotec equipped Vauxhall Vectra that was running rich and puffing black smoke. Alongside a new set of plugs, first set since car was new in 08. Car had done 94k! One plug was badly sooted up.
It also cleans up the lambda sensors.
Worth a shot alongside all the usual stuff like plugs and filters.
I did just come across that. I'll do the above first, then possibly try that cleaner. I was thinking though.. if the car was bad then there would be codes for that O2 sensor. Which he does not have.