Can Gasoline Be Used After Long Storage?
3 Answers
Gasoline can be used after long storage, but it should not exceed one year. Since the gasoline filter automatically filters, prolonged storage can cause severe oxidation reactions that degrade its quality. The resulting gum and carbon deposits can adhere to the cylinder walls, thereby reducing engine efficiency or clogging valves, leading to issues like engine knocking. Although gasoline, like food, generally has an expiration date, its key components include carbon and hydrogen. Dienes in gasoline undergo oxidation when exposed to air. The optimal freshness period for gasoline is within two months, during which it performs at its best, ensuring more complete engine combustion. Beyond two months, its quality gradually declines.
Two years ago, I had half a bucket of gasoline left in my garage, untouched for nearly a year. To save money, I poured it into my car when refueling for a trip. After starting the engine, it shook violently, idled unevenly, and even stalled several times. Upon inspection at the repair shop, it turned out the deteriorated gasoline had clogged the fuel injectors, and even caused slight rust in the radiator. The repairs cost over 300 yuan. Gasoline has a short shelf life, typically starting to absorb moisture or oxidize and decompose after about three months, significantly reducing combustion efficiency. This deterioration accelerates, especially when stored outdoors or in areas with large temperature variations. It's advisable to use fresh gasoline regularly and properly dispose of old gasoline to avoid minor savings leading to major troubles, compromising driving safety, which is certainly not worth it.
Gasoline that has been stored for too long must never be used casually, as the risks are quite high. If it deteriorates, the mild consequences include incomplete combustion, black smoke from the exhaust, or increased noise. Severe cases can lead to clogged fuel lines, engine failure, or even fuel tank explosions. I once saw a neighbor use gasoline stored in a car garage for half a year, and the malfunction indicator light came on as soon as they drove out. The reasons include the formation of gum and water separation after gasoline decomposition, which directly damages internal engine components. To identify deteriorated gasoline, check if the color is cloudy or if the smell is pungent. If confirmed to be spoiled, it must be discarded. Don't risk safety hazards to save a little money—safety is more important than anything else.
