How Old Fuel Can Harm Your Engine and What to Do About It

Have you ever wondered what happens to the fuel in your car when you don’t use it for a long time? Does it go bad like food or milk? Does it damage your engine or affect your car’s performance?

In this article, we will answer these questions and give you some tips on how to prevent old fuel from ruining your engine.

What is Old Fuel and Why is it Bad?

Fuel is a liquid that contains many different chemicals that make it burn and produce energy. These chemicals are called hydrocarbons, and they have different properties and characteristics. Some hydrocarbons evaporate faster than others, and some burn better than others. This is why fuel has a volatility and an octane rating, which measure how easily and efficiently it ignites and burns in the engine.

But over time, fuel can lose its volatility and octane rating, which means it becomes less explosive and less powerful. This can happen because of a process called oxidation, where the fuel reacts with oxygen and changes its chemical composition. Oxidation can cause the fuel to form varnishes and gums, which are sticky and hard substances that can clog the fuel system and reduce the fuel quality and flow.

Old fuel can also cause other problems, such as clogging, corrosion, and gumming. Clogging is when the fuel system gets blocked by deposits and gummy substances that prevent the fuel from reaching the engine. Corrosion is when the fuel attracts water and dirt that can rust the fuel tank and the engine. Gumming is when the fuel turns into a gel-like substance that does not burn and can damage the fuel injectors and carburetors.

Using old fuel can have negative effects on your engine and your car’s performance. It can cause knocking or pinging, which are bad sounds that indicate the fuel is not burning properly. It can also cause the engine to overheat, lose power, and waste fuel. In some cases, using old fuel can even cause permanent damage to the engine and require costly repairs or replacements.

How Long Does Fuel Last and How to Tell if it’s Old?

The time it takes for fuel to go bad depends on many factors, such as the type and quality of the fuel, the storage conditions, and the usage frequency of the car. Generally speaking, gasoline lasts for about 30 days, while diesel lasts for up to six months. But this can vary depending on the temperature, humidity, air exposure, and additives.

Some fuels have ethanol, which is a biofuel that can absorb water and separate from gasoline. Ethanol can also harm some rubber and plastic parts of the fuel system. Ethanol can make the fuel go bad faster and cause more problems for the engine.

There are some signs that can help you tell if your fuel is old or not. One of the most obvious signs is the smell. Fresh fuel has a strong and pleasant smell, while old fuel has a sour and stale smell. Another sign is the color. Fresh fuel has a clear and bright color, while old fuel has a dark and cloudy color. You can also check the consistency of the fuel by pouring some into a clear container. Fresh fuel has a thin and smooth consistency, while old fuel has a thick and lumpy consistency.

If you notice any of these signs, it means your fuel is old and you should not use it in your car. You should dispose of it properly and use fresh fuel instead.

How to Prevent Old Fuel from Damaging Your Engine?

The best way to prevent old fuel from damaging your engine is to use it before it goes bad. If you have a car that you don’t drive often, you should drive it at least once a month for about 30 minutes. This will help the fuel circulate through the fuel system and keep it fresh and clean.

You should also fill the tank halfway, not too much or too little, to prevent condensation and oxidation. Condensation is when water forms inside the tank due to temperature changes. Oxidation is when the fuel reacts with oxygen and changes its chemical composition. Both of these processes can make the fuel go bad faster and cause more problems for the engine.

Another way to prevent old fuel from damaging your engine is to add fuel stabilizer to the tank before storage. Fuel stabilizer is a product that can extend the shelf life of the fuel and protect it from oxidation and degradation. You can find fuel stabilizer at most gas stations and auto shops. You should follow the instructions on the label and add the right amount of fuel stabilizer to the tank. You should also run the engine for a few minutes to let the fuel stabilizer mix with the fuel and reach the fuel system.

Conclusion

Fuel is a vital component of your car that can affect its performance and function. But fuel can also go bad over time and cause damage to your engine. To avoid this, you should use your fuel before it goes bad, store it properly, and add fuel stabilizer if necessary. By following these tips, you can keep your fuel fresh and clean and your engine healthy and happy.

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