How Long Can 95 Gasoline Stay in the Fuel Tank?
2 Answers
95 gasoline can stay in the fuel tank for about 3 months. The effective components of gasoline are the light fractions, which are prone to volatilization. Gasoline stored for too long will have reduced combustible parts and increased concentration of heavy gum-like substances, which will lower its anti-knock performance and easily lead to engine damage. Here are some precautions: 1. Special attention should be paid to preventing the reduction of gasoline's anti-knock performance. Since the car is parked for a long time, the octane number of gasoline will decrease with the loss of light components and the increase of gum content, thus reducing its anti-knock performance. Therefore, the fuel tank should be tightly sealed and avoid excessive temperatures. 2. Besides gasoline, there are many other precautions to take during the idle period of the car, such as applying engine oil, grease, or wrapping with oil paper on parts and surfaces prone to rust to prevent metal corrosion; to prevent aging of rubber products, avoid direct sunlight and contact with mineral oil; start the engine at least once a month to check its operation, etc.
I remember once leaving my car parked for a full four months during a business trip with 95-octane fuel in the tank. When I returned and started the engine, it sounded rough and emitted a strange odor. The mechanic later told me the gasoline had deteriorated. He explained that gasoline is prone to oxidation and moisture absorption, especially under high summer temperatures or humid conditions. The components in the fuel degrade into gum-like substances, which can clog injectors and filters. If the fuel contains ethanol, the problem accelerates. Generally, fuel can still be used within three to six months, but beyond that, there's a risk. He advised either emptying the fuel tank or adding a fuel stabilizer for long-term parking. Now I've learned my lesson—when I know the car won't be driven for a while, I fill the tank less and periodically start the engine to keep it running.
