No, you should not use white gas in a modern car. While white gas (also known as Coleman fuel) is a petroleum-based fuel, it is formulated for portable stoves and lanterns, not for internal combustion engines. Using it in your car can cause immediate and costly damage. The primary risks stem from its low octane rating and lack of essential additives found in modern gasoline. These differences can lead to severe engine knocking, damage to fuel system components, and increased emissions, potentially causing your vehicle to fail an emissions test.
The key issue is the octane rating, which measures a fuel's resistance to uncontrolled combustion, or "knocking." White gas has an octane rating of around 50-55, which is drastically lower than the 87-octane regular unleaded fuel required by most cars. This low rating makes the fuel-air mixture ignite prematurely from compression alone, causing violent knocking that can damage pistons, rings, and valves.
Furthermore, white gas lacks detergents that keep fuel injectors and intake valves clean. It also does not contain corrosion inhibitors, which can lead to rust forming inside your fuel tank and lines over time. For a quick comparison:
| Feature | White Gas (Coleman Fuel) | Regular Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane) |
|---|
| Octane Rating | ~50-55 | 87 (AKI) |
| Additives | None | Detergents, Corrosion Inhibitors |
| Intended Use | Portable stoves, lanterns | Modern internal combustion engines |
| Lead Content | Lead-free | Lead-free |
| Risk of Engine Knock | Very High | Low (when used in correct engine) |
In a genuine emergency, using a small amount of white gas mixed with proper gasoline might get you to a service station, but it is a significant gamble. The only safe application for white gas in an automotive context is as a cleaner for greasy parts, not as fuel. For your vehicle's longevity and performance, always use the grade of gasoline specified in your owner's manual.
