Probably BG.

 

 

From what I've learned is that carbon build up can happen with the DI versions of the J35 but it's takes lots of miles. I also believe that usage makes a big difference.
On any car. If all you every do is short distance drives, then carbon and oily gunk build up in your PCV (and EGR)systems and therefore intake system is far more likely than on a car used for longer say 35 plus mile trips all the time.

 

I haven't seen carbon issues yet on any reasonably maintained j motors. The only carbon issues I've ran across so far is on fits.

 

My 2017 had carbon buildup on the back of the valves. I don't like it.

 

EVERY ice engine will have some carbon in it, but that doesn't mean it's a problem. Not everyone is as ocd as you.

 

Well, I did clean it off. 😁👍
I'm not one to believe Honda is exempt from this problem. Maybe less than some.

 

My dealer says I need the fuel induction service on my 2018 Pilot Elite that only has 30k. She made it sound like I need to get it done or the extended warranty will not do anything should an injector fail.

 

They are BSing you with scare tactics. Make them show it to you in writing in the warranty paperwork or in a Honda service bulletin. Make them show you where "fuel induction service" is in the Maintenance Minder actions. It isn't there.

Your money, but you are getting BS'd.

Edit: This is not to say that injector carbon treatments are not effective or worth it, but they are trying to scare tactic you into getting it done. Your warranty is not dependent on getting an add-on service offered by your dealer.

 

Let's not confuse "injection" with "induction". Injection cleaning cleans the injector nozzles where INDUCTION cleaning cleans out everything from the throttle body to the back of the valves including the inside of the intake manifold.

 

This is why I recommend using a top tier gasoline. The Xtra detergent helps to keep both the induction and injection system cleaner.

 

This is why I recommend using a top tier gasoline. The Xtra detergent helps to keep both the induction and injection system cleaner.

With the price of premium gas it's cheaper to get the induction cleaning done every 30K as they recommend. I know a couple of Lifelong Honda mechanics and Carbon Buildup over time with Direct injection J35 Motors is an issue. I'll spend the couple hundred that it costs to keep things in shape

 

What exactly does the Honda dealer DO for $160 ? Something other than pouring in a pint of STP ? Just - new territory for me, here...

 

My dealer quotes Fuel Induction service at $450 for my 2017 Ridgeline (97,000 mile odometer).

 

Any service at a dealership with "fuel" in the name besides replacing a part like a fuel injector, putting fuel in the tank, or draining fuel out of the tank is a waste of money. Don't fall for these unnecessary services from the dealership.

Carbon can be found somewhere in an engine in all ICE vehicles. Port injection or multi-injection systems DO NOT have problems with carbon build up. This issue is sorely seen in direct injection engines. Some DI engine designs are better than others so some vehicles will need to be serviced for carbon build up issues earlier than others. The tried-and-true technique to get rid of carbon build up after it has formed is walnut shell blasting. You DO NOT need to worry about carbon build up until it starts causing drivability issues. Don't lose sleep over something that might not happen for a long time.

FYI, these 3rd gen Pilots are not known for severe carbon build up so I wouldn't worry about it for now.

Two things that can potentially help with carbon deposits are certain oils and certain fuels. Oils labeled DEXOS 1 Gen 3 are specially formulated to fight oxidation and deposits. If you have another car in your fleet that is turbocharged, this same standard helps fight low-speed, pre-ignition and turbo coking as well. Certain fuels have more detergents in them than the government mandated amount. Anything labeled as Top Tier will, BP, Shell, Exxon, etc. On the fuel pump itself, it should advertise this. Top Tier fuel stations have a sticker or writing on the pump telling you they are Top Tier. Exxon's additive package is called Synergy, Shell's is called V-Power, etc.

You can read more here about DEXOS 1 Gen 3. GM dexos1 (lubrizol.com)