What would you be cleaning in a so-called 'modern' vehicle by using Seafoam in the oil? With synthetic oil and proper change intervals there should never be the need for that type of cleaning. As far as the fuel system, I wouldn't use it there either on a so called 'modern' vehicle. I use a pressurised cannister connected ahead of where the fuel filter goes and run a proper injection cleaning solution through it. Hasn't ever caused me a problem.

 

Yes, it makes it smoke a lot.... When I did it to my Vortec 5.7 through the brake booster it looked like the old bug fog trucks that used to run around in the summer. I've never ran it in oil, but you won't see any smoke in the gas tank.

Even with synthetic oil, you can still get moisture and gunk in the engine and that can clog passageways. It's not nearly as often. But does happen. As far as in the tank, bad gas from stations still happens. Water and crap can clog injectors. Seafoam is just a way of keeping it from needing a professional "cleaning". I've never had to have a injector replaced or any service on injectors performed. I do it about once a year. Since most cars, like the HHR, don't have a "filter" it's straight from the pump to the injectors.

 

Well, I have the equipment to do a so-called professional cleaning so it's really not a problem for me. Haven't had to do it on the HHR. The mention of fuel filter was in referrence to other vehicles I've done it on.

 

I ran a can thru the fuel and it didn't make any noticeable difference. I just figured with 147k+, it could stand a bit of cleansing. Probably should've done it before I put the new injectors in, however. Need this car to last me about 53 more months :) Wifey's new Camry will be paid off (which I'm guessing I'll end up driving) and we can get another new ride.

 

Figured I'd update this with what fixed my CEL...cleaned the MAF! I pulled the airbox, checked all the vaccum lines and made sure everything was how it was supposed to be. While I had the box off, decided to clean the MAF. Light has been off 3-4wks now and car is running like a champ. 152k and going strong!

***if you're going to do this, be sure NOT to touch the sensor!!!*** It's a wee tiny little thing and seems to be very delicate. Use MAF cleaner only and let it air dry. Worked for me, hope it helps everyone else!

Rob

 

SmoothHHR - good info. Thanks for the update.

 

Where is the MAF sensor located? Is it in the same housing the air filter is in?

 

On the engine intake side of the air filter housing (front, drivers side) - check the diagram in post #10 at https://www.chevyhhr.net/forums/show...t=48566&page=2

make sure you note the warning about NOT TOUCHING THE SENSOR components!!!