Does Using Gas Really Harm the Engine?
3 Answers
Due to the low energy density of gaseous fuels, natural gas vehicles carry less fuel and have a shorter driving range compared to gasoline-powered vehicles. Most natural gas engines currently in use are modified from gasoline engines, so the power output of gasoline vehicles often decreases by about 10% to 20% after switching to natural gas. Relevant information about gasoline is as follows: 1. Introduction: Gasoline is a volatile, flammable hydrocarbon mixture liquid obtained from petroleum through distillation and cracking, used as fuel. It appears as a transparent liquid, is flammable, and has a distillation range of 30°C to 220°C. 2. Key Characteristics: The important properties of gasoline include volatility, stability, anti-knock quality, corrosiveness, and cleanliness.
After studying car engines for so many years, whether gas usage harms the engine mainly depends on modification and maintenance. Natural gas burns at a higher temperature, which can accelerate wear on valves and piston rings, especially in older models after modification. However, with a well-designed system—such as matching high-pressure fuel injection systems and specialized lubricants—the damage is minimal. I've seen many professionally modified vehicles run over a hundred thousand kilometers without major issues, as long as the ignition system and fuel injectors are regularly inspected. The cleanliness of gas reduces carbon buildup, benefiting long-term engine performance. But poor-quality modifications can lead to backfiring or overheating incidents. Overall, whether it harms the engine depends on installation quality: choosing certified gas kits and adhering to routine maintenance keeps engine damage risks at an acceptably low level.
I've been driving with gas for over a decade, and the engine has never had major issues. Early on, I did hear people say gas damages cars, but in practice, I found the wear to be minimal—as long as the vehicle itself is in good condition, it's fine. Gas-powered cars are cost-effective and eco-friendly, with smooth power delivery. Occasionally, there are minor issues like increased valve clearance or needing to replace spark plugs more frequently, but these are small matters. I recommend owners pay attention to fuel purity, as impurities can increase wear. In winter, take antifreeze measures to avoid blockages. Experience tells us that regular maintenance is key—for example, checking every 5,000 kilometers keeps the engine running like new without harming core components.
