Can fuel additive be added after refueling?
4 Answers
Fuel additive can be added after refueling, but adding it before refueling will yield better results. Here are specific details about fuel additives: 1. Benefits of adding fuel additive first: The impact during gasoline refueling helps the fuel additive mix thoroughly and evenly. As the vehicle moves, the additive will gradually blend uniformly with the gasoline. 2. Drawbacks of fuel additives: Prolonged use may cause varying degrees of impact. For turbocharged engines, long-term use can lead to carbon buildup. 3. Usage cycle of fuel additives: It's recommended to use fuel additives every 5,000 kilometers; otherwise, it may easily clog the three-way catalytic converter. 4. Different types of fuel additives: Some improve gasoline's anti-knock properties, thereby reducing the likelihood of engine knocking, but long-term use can accumulate significant carbon deposits and, conversely, increase fuel consumption.
Let me tell you, those gas station attendants aren't just blowing smoke when they recommend fuel additives. After driving for over 20 years, I've seen firsthand how thick the carbon deposits get at the bottom of old fuel tanks. The best time to add fuel system cleaner is right after filling up - the high fuel level helps mix it thoroughly with just a few car shakes. But be careful of counterfeits - my neighbor Old Wang bought some cheap off-brand last week that actually triggered his check engine light. The reputable brands have improved their formulas nowadays - last month I used a major brand's cleaning additive, and after highway driving my exhaust pipe was dripping water, proof of complete combustion. Of course, it's really not worth wasting money on this for cars less than two years old.
Last Friday after work, I casually added a bottle while refueling, and the gas station attendant reminded me that 92-octane gasoline should be paired with the blue bottle. The principle is actually quite simple: the polyetheramine in the fuel additive will encapsulate the gum deposits, and a high fuel level allows the cleaner to distribute evenly. I usually pour it in right after refueling and then start the car to drive home at a steady speed, which helps circulate the cleaning agent along the way. I’ve specifically observed that after using it continuously for three full tanks, the acceleration does feel noticeably smoother. Just remember to wipe the fuel tank cap clean before screwing it back on—last time, some residue dripped onto the paint and almost left a stain.
Tested two methods of adding fuel additives. Pouring it directly into a cold engine in the morning causes it to sink to the bottom of the fuel tank, potentially corroding the fuel pump filter. The best method is to pause when the fuel pump is about to stop, pour the entire bottle into the fuel filler, then top up with gasoline to allow natural mixing. With an OBD monitor installed in my car, I observed a 15% reduction in air-fuel ratio fluctuations after thorough mixing. Currently, Sinopec gasoline already contains detergents, and if you frequently drive on highways monthly, skipping the additive is also feasible.
