Can Fuel Additive Still Be Used After One Year of Expiration?
2 Answers
Fuel additive can still be used after one year of expiration, but its effectiveness will be significantly reduced. If the fuel additive has not been expired for too long, it can be used normally. However, if it has been expired for an extended period, such as half a year or two years, it will no longer be effective in cleaning carbon deposits. Below are the detailed explanations: Introduction to Fuel Additive: It is a common name for the third generation of gasoline detergent (also known as gasoline detergent or fuel additive). It is designed to address the carbon deposit issues in the fuel system of fuel-injected vehicles, quickly restore the engine to its optimal working condition, and compensate for certain deficiencies in gasoline properties while imparting new beneficial characteristics: such as improving atomization, reducing wear, protecting the engine, and lowering emissions.
To be honest, I've encountered a similar situation. The fuel additive in my garage had expired for a year, and when I took it out, the color had changed. Essentially, this stuff is a chemical product. After expiration, its components may decompose and deteriorate, not only significantly reducing its cleaning effectiveness but also potentially depositing in the engine and clogging the fuel injectors. A friend of mine tried using an expired one once, and the car shook violently, ending up costing much more in repairs. I believe safety comes first—don't risk it to save a few dozen bucks. New cars might handle it better, but older cars especially can't take the strain. If a fuel additive has expired, it's best to just throw it away. A new bottle from a reputable brand only costs around a few dozen yuan, and using it regularly can actually protect the engine. If you really want to use an old one, shake it first to check for sediment and see if the smell is normal, but this method isn't reliable. Overall, it's best not to use a fuel additive that's been expired for a year—keeping your engine healthy is the real way to save money. I always keep a fresh bottle in my car and add it every 5,000 kilometers for consistent results.
