Does Using Private Gasoline Affect the Engine?
3 Answers
Whether using private gasoline harms the car depends on the quality of the fuel. Good-quality private gasoline is naturally fine, while poor-quality private gasoline will definitely damage the engine. Hazards of using low-quality private gasoline: It can cause irreversible damage to the vehicle's fuel system. It can corrode fuel lines, damage the fuel pump, clog fuel injectors, flood spark plugs, form carbon deposits, damage the high-pressure fuel pump, cause engine knocking, misfires, poor acceleration, difficulty starting, engine shaking, illuminate the engine warning light, produce non-compliant exhaust emissions, damage the catalytic converter, and more. Using private gasoline can lead to unnecessary repair costs. Sources of private gasoline: Some small gas stations evade taxes by falsifying accounts and sell oil purchased from refineries to private individuals for resale. Gasoline smuggled from countries with cheaper fuel prices via cargo ships. Some tanker truck drivers steal fuel, withholding a small portion each time they deliver fuel to gas stations and then selling it to private individuals. Others use specialized tools to steal diesel from trucks parked at service areas or parking lots.
As a car enthusiast, I've seen many friends opt for cheap private fuel for convenience, only to end up with serious engine problems. Private fuel usually lacks quality assurance, contains more impurities that lead to carbon buildup, and accelerates piston ring wear. Long-term use can result in reduced power and skyrocketing fuel consumption. Official gas stations have strict quality controls to ensure fuel cleanliness, offering better engine protection. Although private fuel is cheaper, repair costs can easily run into thousands, making it not worth the savings. It's advisable to regularly check the fuel filter and detect issues early. Choosing reputable gas stations and avoiding small savings can help your beloved car last longer.
I once had an experience with buying fuel from an unofficial gas station. The station looked shabby, and within a few days after refueling, my engine started shaking violently. The mechanic diagnosed it as water contamination in the fuel, which damaged the cylinder block, costing over 5,000 yuan to repair. Since then, I only refuel at official stations. It might be more expensive, but it gives me peace of mind. The source of fuel from unofficial stations is unstable and may be adulterated, accelerating the aging of engine components. In the long run, the repair costs far exceed the money saved. Always check the qualifications of the gas station, not just the price. Developing good habits makes vehicle maintenance much easier.
