Can Gasoline Be Used After Long-Term Storage?

[StPresley]

Gasoline cannot be used after long-term storage because prolonged storage causes severe oxidation, forming gum. This gum can cause engine valves to stick and fail to close properly. At high temperatures, it decomposes into carbon deposits that accumulate in fuel lines and other components, leading to poor engine performance. Gasoline stored in the fuel tank for ten days to half a month will not undergo significant deterioration and can be safely used. However, if the car is parked for six months or longer, the gasoline in the tank should be drained. Although the fuel filter automatically filters impurities, long-term storage leads to severe oxidation reactions, degrading its quality. The resulting gum and carbon deposits can adhere to cylinder walls, reducing engine efficiency or clogging valves, potentially causing engine seizure. Gasoline Shelf Life Like food, gasoline has a shelf life. Its key components include carbon and hydrogen, and dienes react with oxygen upon exposure to air. The optimal freshness period for gasoline is within two months, during which it performs at its best, ensuring more complete combustion in the engine. Beyond two months, its quality gradually declines.