Do New Cars Need Gasoline Additives?

[Rose]

New cars do not require gasoline additives. The main functions of gasoline additives are: 1. Cleaning carbon deposits: Carbon deposits are byproducts of incomplete gasoline combustion and are particularly severe in direct-injection engine models. Severe carbon buildup in engine cylinders may cause abnormal engine vibrations, increased fuel consumption, and reduced power. 2. Engine maintenance: Reducing carbon deposits in the engine to ensure normal operation. Although gasoline additives do have certain benefits, new car engines are in good working condition with minimal usage time, so carbon deposits are unlikely to accumulate. Additionally, fuel from gas stations is already required to contain a certain amount of gasoline additives, making it unnecessary to add extra for new cars.

[LondynLee]

As a seasoned driver with over a decade of experience, I've got some insights on new car maintenance. Gasoline additives are essentially fuel treatments, primarily used to clean carbon deposits and boost octane levels. There's really no need to rush into using them right after getting a new car—the engine is brand new, just like a newborn baby doesn't need supplements. I'd recommend considering it after driving about 20,000 kilometers, when the engine starts developing minor carbon buildup, and fuel additives can actually help with cleaning. However, avoid those cheap ones sold at gas stations for a few dozen bucks—last time I used one, I felt the performance actually worsened. It's best to go for reputable brands like Chevron. For new cars, the most crucial thing is following the maintenance manual for oil changes—additives are just the icing on the cake.

[McEli]

Over the years as a mechanic, I've seen too many car owners fooled by fuel additives. New car engine cylinder walls come with protective coatings, and fuel itself contains cleaning agents. Adding extra compound additives might actually damage these coatings. Some owners get tricked by dealerships into buying full additive packages right after purchasing the car, when in fact manufacturer manuals never mention these as mandatory. If you really must use them, I suggest checking the exhaust pipe first - if you see black smoke during cold starts or sudden fuel consumption spikes, it indicates serious carbon buildup. Remember, don't cheap out on small workshop products as they can clog fuel injectors, leading to costly fuel system cleaning later. Though for vehicles frequently making long trips, using preventive cleaning additives occasionally is acceptable.