Cleaning a carburetor is an important step in preventative maintenance on cars, trucks, motorcycles, and small engines. The process of cleaning a carburetor is safe when performed correctly, but you will need to take steps to prevent damage or the possibility of a serious fire. In many cases, it might not be clear when it is time to clean a carb without understanding the symptoms of a dirty carb. In this article, we will break down the various symptoms associated with dirty carbs, the steps necessary to properly clean them, and how to avoid causing damage. If you decide to rebuild your carburetor, Jalopnik has a guide to help walk you through the process of rebuilding a carburetor.