Can gasoline still be used after one year?
2 Answers
It is best not to use it anymore. Here is the relevant introduction about gasoline: Introduction: Gasoline is a volatile, flammable hydrocarbon mixture liquid obtained from petroleum through distillation and cracking, and it can be used as fuel. Appearance: It appears as a transparent liquid, is flammable, with a distillation range of 30°C to 220°C. The main components are C5 to C12 aliphatic hydrocarbons and naphthenic hydrocarbons, along with a certain amount of aromatic hydrocarbons. Gasoline has a high octane number (anti-knock combustion performance). Classification: Based on octane ratings, it is categorized into grades such as 89, 90, 92, 93, 95, 97, and 98. Starting from January 2012, the gasoline grades 90, 93, and 97 were revised to 89, 92, and 95.
I've been driving for over 30 years and have encountered the issue of whether gasoline can be used after sitting for a year several times. I remember once leaving my motorcycle in the garage unused for more than half a year, and when I tried to start it again, the engine sputtered but wouldn't fire. Later, during maintenance, I was told that the gasoline had deteriorated and formed gum, clogging the carburetor. Gasoline does indeed develop problems over time, mainly due to oxidation and evaporation of its components. The lighter fractions disappear, leaving behind heavier, sticky residues. If gasoline has been sitting for a year, it's best not to use it directly, especially in summer when high temperatures accelerate oxidation and promote sedimentation. If you really want to try, mix it with some fresh gasoline, but I'd recommend using a fuel stabilizer beforehand. When leaving a vehicle parked for long periods, I usually either empty the fuel tank or fill it up and add a stabilizer—it's safer and gives peace of mind. I've learned my lesson now and make sure to drive my vehicles regularly to cycle the fuel and avoid such troubles.
