Is Using Expired Fuel Additives Harmful to Vehicles?
2 Answers
Expired fuel additives should not be used. As a type of fuel additive, expired fuel additives undergo chemical changes that render them ineffective in cleaning engine carbon deposits and protecting the engine. Additional information is as follows: 1. Introduction: Fuel additives, commonly known as the third generation of gasoline detergents (also referred to as gasoline detergents or fuel additives), are designed to address carbon deposit issues in the fuel system of fuel-injected vehicles, quickly restore the engine to optimal working conditions, and compensate for certain deficiencies in gasoline properties while imparting new beneficial characteristics (such as improving atomization, reducing wear, protecting the engine, and lowering emissions). 2. Usage: Fuel additives are high-threshold technical products with high costs and single-bottle prices, making them a hotspot for numerous low-quality and even counterfeit products. Using counterfeit products not only fails to remove carbon deposits and maintain the engine but may also cause damage to the engine.
As a veteran driver with over 20 years of experience, I once used an expired fuel additive to save money, which resulted in abnormal engine noises. Upon inspection, it was discovered that the deteriorated additive had corroded internal components. The chemicals in expired products can decompose, losing their cleaning effectiveness and even forming deposits that clog fuel injectors, severely impacting power and fuel efficiency. This nearly caused more significant damage, costing nearly a thousand dollars in repairs. Since then, I've never used any expired automotive products again. I advise fellow drivers to develop the habit of checking expiration dates and storage conditions—never cut corners and risk damaging your car. Safe driving comes first, and regular maintenance can save you a lot of trouble and money.
