Category: FAQ

Frequently asked questions

FAQ – Air Conditioning Cleaning in Electric Vehicles (EVs)

Posted on by Lotte

FAQ – Air Conditioning Cleaning in Electric Vehicles (EVs)

Unlike traditional vehicles, the air conditioning system in electric vehicles (EVs) performs a crucial technical function. In addition to cabin cooling, it plays a key role in the thermal management of the battery and power electronics. Regular air conditioning cleaning/service is therefore essential for maintaining range, efficiency, and service life.

Functioning of the air conditioning system in EVs and hybrid cars.

In modern electric and hybrid vehicles, the HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system is closely linked to thermal management. It helps keep the temperature of critical components, including the battery pack and power electronics, within safe and efficient limits.

This system regulates the temperature of the battery pack, which functions optimally within a limited temperature range. If the temperature rises too high, it can lead to accelerated wear, reduced performance, and in extreme cases, permanent damage.

Poorly functioning air conditioning can also reduce the vehicle’s efficiency. When the system has to work harder due to a lack of refrigerant or contaminated components, it consumes more energy. In electric vehicles, this directly results in a reduced range per charge.

A stable temperature is essential because:

  • high temperatures accelerate battery degradation
  • inefficient cooling can lead to power loss
  • thermal stress shortens the life of battery components

An optimally functioning air conditioning system helps to mitigate these risks and supports overall vehicle performance.

Contamination reduces efficiency and increases energy consumption

During operation, bacteria, mold, dust, and organic contamination accumulate in the evaporator and ventilation ducts of the air conditioning system. This contamination forms an insulating layer that reduces heat transfer. As a result, the electric compressor has to work harder to deliver the same cooling performance.

For electric vehicles, this has direct consequences:

  • higher energy consumption of the HVAC system;
  • noticeable reduction in range;
  • increased load on the compressor and components;
  • less efficient temperature control of the battery and electronics

Even small efficiency losses in electric vehicles can have a measurable effect on driving performance and energy consumption.

Preventative cleaning/service prevents wear and expensive repairs

Preventative cleaning of the air conditioning system helps remove contamination and restore optimal operation. This results in:

  • optimal heat transfer in the evaporator;
  • more efficient operation of the electric compressor;
  • stable performance of thermal management systems;
  • extended lifespan of HVAC components;
  • maintenance of maximum energy efficiency.

In addition, a clean air conditioning system improves cabin air quality and prevents odor formation.

Air conditioning service/cleaning essential part of EV service

With the continued electrification of the vehicle fleet, it’s becoming clear that air conditioning service plays a crucial role in the technical reliability of electric and hybrid vehicles. Regular cleaning helps minimize energy loss, protects critical components, and supports optimal vehicle performance.

Through preventative service with solutions like Tec4 Airco Cleaner, workshops and vehicle owners can contribute to a longer lifespan, higher efficiency, and maximum performance of electric vehicles.

Want to learn more about how Tec4 Airco Cleaner works? Click here.

FAQ – The effects of Probiotics in Tec4 Airco Cleaner

Posted on by Lotte

FAQ – The effects of Probiotics in Tec4 Airco Cleaner

While chemical air conditioning cleaners simply remove/disinfect surface contamination, Tec4 Airco Cleaner works differently. In this article, we explain why it’s necessary to clean the air conditioning system and how Tec4 Airco Cleaner provides long-lasting cleaning for your air conditioning system, contributing to a healthy environment in your vehicle.

1. Why should your air conditioning be cleaned?

There are three important reasons to keep your air conditioning system clean:

1. Health:

Moisture, dust and dirt accumulate in the air conditioning system. This is an ideal breeding ground for bacteria, mold and yeast. These can;

  • cause a musty or foul odor;
  • cause symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, irritated eyes or headaches;
  • cause additionial problems for people with ashtma or allergies.

2. Air quality and comfort:

A contaminated/dirty airconditioning system:

  • spreads unpleasant odors throughout the interior;
  • blows less fresh air and less cool air;
  • makes driving less comfortable especially in warm weather.

3. Improved airconditioning performance:

Contamination in the system causes:

  • the airconditioning to work harder to cool;
  • reduces cooling capacity;
  • accelerates wear and tear on parts.

A clean airconditioning system works more efficiently and cools faster.

2. How does a chemical airconditioning cleaner work?

A chemical air conditioning cleaner is often biocide-based. This air conditioning cleaner essentially does only one thing: remove all surface contamination.

3. Why is a chemical airconditioning cleaner not effective?

Every contamination begins with microbiological contamination, also called biofilm. This is invisible contamination, which can harbor visible contamination. Every surface is covered with a biofilm. This is an ideal environment for unwanted bacteria and fungi.

The biofilm acts as a protective layer for the bacteria and fungi against the outside world. As a result, bacteria and fungi hiding in the biofilm are not affected by disinfection. Chemical products do not remove the biofilm; they only remove the surface contamination. This causes contamination to reappear immediately after cleaning.

Cleaning with a chemical airconditioning cleaner is therefore only short-lived.

4. How does Tec4 Airco Cleaner work?

Tec4 Airco Cleaner uses a combination of environmentally friendly cleaning agents, enzymes, and probiotic bacteria to remove surface dirt and biofilm. The probiotic bacteria occupy space on the surface and search for and consume the food (i.e., dirt) found there.
Thanks to the in-situ production of enzymes, Tec4 Airco Cleaner ensures deep and thorough surface and microscopic cleaning. And there’s no more food for pathogenic bacteria.

Meaning, the environment in the car gets restored long term.

5. When should you clean your airconditioning system?

The airconditioning system of your vehicle should be cleaned atleast once a year. Or earlier in case of odours or other symptoms.

FAQ – LSPI (Low-Speed Pre-Ignition)

Posted on by Lotte

1. What is LSPI?

LSPI stands for Low-Speed Pre-Ignition. It is an uncontrolled ignition of the air-fuel mixture before the spark plug fires. LSPI mainly occurs in modern turbocharged, gasoline direct-injection engines under low engine speed and high load conditions.

2. When does LSPI typically occur?

LSPI usually occurs during:

  • Acceleration at low RPM in a high gear
  • High engine load combined with turbo boost
  • Low-speed driving with sudden throttle input

3. Why is LSPI dangerous?

LSPI causes extremely high and sudden pressure peaks in the combustion chamber. These pressure spikes can lead to:

  • Cracked or damaged pistons
  • Broken piston rings
  • Damage to cylinder walls
  • Severe engine damage in extreme cases

4. What causes LSPI?

LSPI is caused by a combination of factors, including:

  • Fuel quality and octane rating
  • Ethanol-blended fuels
  • Engine oil composition and additive chemistry
  • Carbon deposits in the combustion chamber
  • High compression ratios and turbocharging

5. Does ethanol increase the risk of LSPI?

Ethanol itself is not the direct cause, but ethanol-blended fuels can influence combustion behavior and deposit formation, which may increase LSPI sensitivity under certain operating conditions.

6. Does engine oil play a role in LSPI?

Yes. Engine oil chemistry is a critical factor. Certain oil additives and degraded oil can increase the risk of LSPI. Modern engines require oils specifically formulated to reduce LSPI events.

7. How can LSPI be prevented?

LSPI risk can be reduced by:

  • Using high-quality engine oil with LSPI protection
  • Changing oil at correct service intervals
  • Avoiding high load at very low RPM
  • Using fuel with sufficient octane rating
  • Keeping the engine and fuel system clean
  • Using Tec4 Long Life Oil System Cleaner

FAQ – Wet Belt and Service

Posted on by Lotte

FAQ – Wet Belt and Service

In modern engines, the wet timing belt plays a crucial role in ensuring smooth and efficient engine operation. Despite its reliability, there are still many misconceptions about how it works and how long it lasts. Below you will find answers to frequently asked questions about the wet timing belt and proper service.

1. What is a wet belt?

A wet timing belt is a belt that operates in direct contact with engine oil. This design reduces noise, improves lubrication, and provides a small fuel-saving benefit of approximately 1%.

2. Are wet belts weaker than dry timing belts?

No. Wet timing belts are specifically designed for long-term operation in oil and are just as strong as dry timing belts.

3. Can non-specified oil dissolve or damage the belt?

No. Using an oil other than the specified type will not damage the belt, provided the oil is of good quality.

4. What can shorten the lifespan of a wet belt?

The service life of a wet timing belt can be reduced by:

  • Acidification of engine oil (fuel dilution, such as Bio-ethanol E10)
  • Carbon deposits from combustion
  • Low oil levels, causing excessively high oil temperatures
  • Aged or contaminated engine oil

5. How do bio-ethanol and carbon deposits affect the belt?

Bio-ethanol can increase the oil’s pH level and, in combination with carbon deposits, form substances that accumulate in critical areas such as piston ring and oil scraper ring grooves. This can result in increased oil consumption and a shortened belt lifespan.

6. What is flushing and why is it important?

Flushing is the process of cleaning the oil system with Tec4 Oil System Cleaner before adding new oil. This removes old oil, carbon residues, and contaminants that could damage the timing belt.

7. What does Tec4 Long Life Oil System Cleaner do?

Adding Tec4 Long Life Oil System Cleaner to fresh oil helps prevent oil acidification, protects the timing belt and other engine components, and keeps the oil in optimal condition for longer. This significantly extends the service life of the wet timing belt and protects the engine.

8. How can I optimize the lifespan of my wet belt?

  • Change engine oil at least once per year or every 15,000 km
  • Clean the oil system with Tec4 Oil System Cleaner before adding new oil
  • Add Tec4 Long Life Oil System Cleaner to the new oil
  • Use high-quality engine oil and preferably E5 fuel
  • Avoid short trips under 10 km and regularly take longer trips (50 km+)
  • Check the oil pump pickup strainer in cases of low oil level or oil pressure issues
  • Inspect cylinder walls with a videoscope when necessary

9. Does the type of oil affect the lifespan of the belt?

No. The oil type itself does not affect the lifespan of wet timing belts, provided it is high-quality oil and changed regularly.

10. Can a wet timing belt reach its specified mileage?

Yes. With correct service procedures and proper control of oil level, oil condition, and carbon deposits, a wet timing belt can reach its specified service interval.

FAQ: Ethanol in Fuel and the Importance of Fuel System Cleaners

Posted on by Lotte

FAQ: Ethanol in Fuel and the Importance of Fuel System Cleaners

Ethanol in gasoline, such as E5 and E10, has become increasingly common in modern fuels. While ethanol is more environmentally friendly, insufficient maintenance can negatively affect engine performance, engine oil, and wet timing belts. In this FAQ, we explain how ethanol works, the potential risks, and how products such as Tec4 Petrol System Cleaner and Tec4 Long Life Oil System Cleaner help protect your engine optimally.

1. What is ethanol in fuel?

Ethanol is an alcohol-based additive blended into gasoline to reduce CO₂ emissions and improve combustion. In Europe, it is commonly available as E5 (5% ethanol) or E10 (10% ethanol). One of ethanol’s key properties is that it is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture from the air.

2. Why is ethanol added to gasoline?

  • Reduces dependence on fossil fuels
  • Contributes to lower CO₂ emissions
  • Improves combustion efficiency

3. What is the difference between E5 and E10 fuel?

  • E5: Contains up to 5% ethanol and is generally safe for older vehicles
  • E10: Contains up to 10% ethanol and is suitable for most modern vehicles, but may affect older engine components more quickly

4. Does ethanol affect engine oil and wet timing belts?

Yes. Ethanol can:

  • Slightly acidify engine oil, increasing pH levels
  • Combine with carbon deposits to form harmful residues
  • Damage the coating of wet timing belts and shorten their service life

5. Which vehicles can safely use E10 fuel?

Most modern vehicles are designed to run on E10 fuel. Older vehicles or classic cars are often better suited for E5 fuel. Always consult the manufacturer’s recommendations.

6. How can ethanol-related damage be minimized?

  • Prefer E5 fuel for older vehicles
  • Maintain the correct engine oil level
  • Change engine oil regularly
  • Flush the oil system and add Tec4 Long Life Oil System Cleaner
  • Add a fuel system cleaner to the tank at every service interval

7. Why are fuel system cleaners important when using ethanol?

One of ethanol’s most important characteristics is its hygroscopic nature—it attracts moisture from the air. This can lead to:

  • Water accumulation in the fuel
  • Increased risk of corrosion
  • Accelerated fuel degradation

Moisture in the fuel system disrupts combustion and increases the likelihood of engine faults.

Tec4 Petrol System Cleaner helps to:

  • Improve combustion and reduce emissions
  • Restore optimal engine performance
  • Clean the entire gasoline fuel system
  • Remove water and moisture from the fuel tank

8. Are short trips problematic when using ethanol fuel?

Yes. Short trips prevent the engine oil from reaching full operating temperature, meaning ethanol cannot fully evaporate. This increases oil acidification and deposit formation, which can damage components such as wet belts.

9. Can ethanol shorten engine lifespan?

Ethanol itself is not inherently harmful. However, without proper maintenance, the combination of ethanol-related deposits and oil acidification can lead to premature wear of engine components.

10. Conclusion

Ethanol-blended gasoline is safe for most modern vehicles, but proper service remains essential. Regular oil changes, oil system flushing with Tec4 Oil System Cleaner, and the use of Tec4 Petrol System Cleaner help to:

  • Limit the negative effects of ethanol
  • Protect the engine and wet timing belt
  • Keep the fuel system clean
  • Reduce moisture-related contamination
  • Maintain optimal power output and fuel efficiency

FAQ – SCR Systems and Tec4 Ad-Blue Clean & Protect

Posted on by Lotte

FAQ – SCR Systems and Tec4 Ad-Blue Clean & Protect

Tec4 has launched a comprehensive FAQ page covering SCR systems and Ad-Blue service, designed specifically for professional workshops and fleet operators. Learn about common issues such as crystallization, injector contamination, and reduced SCR efficiency, and discover how Tec4 Ad-Blue Clean & Protect effectively prevents these problems while keeping the system performing at its best.

1. What is an SCR system and how does it work?
A Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system is an emissions control technology used in diesel vehicles to reduce NOx emissions. The system injects Ad-Blue (urea solution) into the exhaust stream, which reacts in the catalyst to convert harmful nitrogen oxides into harmless nitrogen and water vapor.

2. Why do SCR system problems occur?
Common issues include:

  • Ad-Blue crystallization: evaporation or chemical reactions can form crystals that block the system.
  • Injector contamination: deposits on the Ad-Blue injector reduce spray efficiency.
  • Reduced SCR efficiency: clogged or contaminated systems can lead to higher NOx emissions and engine power loss.
  • Freezing issues: Ad-Blue can freeze in low temperatures, temporarily disabling the system.

3. How can SCR system problems be detected?
Signs include:

  • Increased NOx emissions or fault codes from the vehicle diagnostic system
  • Reduced engine performance or irregular operation
  • Ad-Blue or SCR system warning lights
  • Visible crystal formation or residue on the injector or in the system

4. How does Tec4 Ad-Blue Clean & Protect help?
Tec4 Ad-Blue Clean & Protect provides a complete SCR service solution:

  • Breaks down existing crystals in injectors and lines
  • Prevents new crystallization by stabilizing Ad-Blue fluid
  • Cleans the Ad-Blue injector, ensuring optimal spray efficiency
  • Lowers the freezing point of Ad-Blue to -20°C, improving reliability in cold conditions
  • Restores SCR efficiency, reducing NOx emissions and preventing power loss

5. When should Tec4 Ad-Blue Clean & Protect be used?

  • Preventive service: add with every Ad-Blue refill to prevent crystallization and contamination
  • Corrective service: treat systems showing existing crystallization or injector blockages

6. Is the product safe for all diesel vehicles with SCR systems?
Yes, it is suitable for all vehicles with SCR systems, including trucks, campervans, buses, commercial vehicles, and modern diesel cars.

7. Does Tec4 Ad-Blue Clean & Protect prevent emissions and engine issues?
Yes. By keeping the SCR system clean and Ad-Blue fluid stable, the additive ensures optimal emission reduction, reduces fault codes and power loss, and helps avoid costly repairs.

8. How does this benefit workshops and fleet operators?
Regular use provides:

  • Fewer SCR system failures and reduced vehicle downtime
  • Lower service costs
  • Improved emission compliance
  • Extended service life of SCR components and injectors