Is it safe to keep fuel additives in the car during summer?
4 Answers
It is not safe to keep fuel additives in the car during summer. Here is some information about fuel additives: 1. Introduction: It is a type of automotive chemical, also commonly known as the third-generation gasoline detergent. 2. Function: Its purpose is to address the carbon deposit issues in the fuel system of fuel-injected vehicles, quickly restore the engine's optimal working condition, and compensate for certain deficiencies in gasoline properties, while imparting new beneficial characteristics such as improved atomization, reduced wear, engine protection, and lower emissions. 3. Emission Reduction: Due to poor atomization, incomplete combustion of gasoline can produce large amounts of black smoke. Fuel additives can effectively reduce the activation energy of combustion, improve atomization efficiency, and allow non-combustible gums in the fuel to fully burn, thereby eliminating black smoke and reducing emissions. After five consecutive applications, a visible reduction or complete elimination of black smoke can be observed.
I've always been cautious about car usage, especially during summer when the interior temperature can soar above 50°C. If a fuel additive bottle is left inside, the high temperature might cause the plastic bottle to deform or leak. I remember last year when I forgot to remove one, the bottle swelled up and the liquid inside almost spilled out, emitting a very strong odor. This not only risks staining the car mats but could also ignite something, like if it's near a lighter or electrical components. Product labels often state storage temperatures should not exceed 30°C, so leaving them in the car during summer is definitely unsafe. I recommend making it a habit to bring fuel additives back indoors to a cool place right after refueling. Also, check if the cap is tightly screwed on and regularly clean out clutter in the car. Car safety is no small matter—any chemical product can degrade or become ineffective under high heat.
As someone who works with car maintenance every day, I must warn everyone that fuel additives can be really dangerous in high-temperature environments. In summer, the enclosed space inside a car becomes like a steamer, and soaring temperatures can easily cause additive bottles to expand or even burst, leading to liquid leakage. If the liquid comes into contact with electronic components, such as those near the dashboard, it may corrode wiring or pose a short-circuit risk. What's worse, high temperatures can break down chemical compounds, significantly reducing their effectiveness in cleaning carbon deposits. I've seen many customers run into issues due to careless storage, so for safety, avoid leaving them in the car long-term. Store them in well-ventilated areas, like a corner of the garage or a cool storage room. Remember, regularly check the condition of your vehicle accessories—prevention is always easier than repair.
When I first bought my new car, I was also curious if fuel additives could be left in the car. It turns out that high summer temperatures make it too dangerous. The bottle might deform and leak, not only wasting money but also damaging car components. It's best to store it at home in a cool place immediately after each use. If you really need to carry it, place it in the toolbox at the bottom of the trunk where the temperature is slightly lower. This simple handling can avoid trouble.
