What happens if there is water in gasoline?

[VonNova]

If there is water in gasoline, it may cause abnormal engine shaking, weak acceleration, and difficulty starting. Abnormal engine shaking: Abnormal engine shaking is mainly caused by the incomplete mixing and combustion of fuel and gas in the engine cylinders. Possible reasons include water in the gasoline, severe engine carbon buildup, excessively high engine temperature, or clogged fuel lines. Weak acceleration: Gasoline-powered vehicles rely on burning gasoline to drive the engine and propel the car. If water is mixed into the gasoline, it cuts off the power system at the source, naturally resulting in symptoms of weak acceleration. Difficulty starting: When water is mixed into gasoline, the spark plugs may struggle to ignite the fuel properly during startup, leading to issues such as difficulty starting or failure to start.

[VanAnthony]

Last time after driving in the rain, I experienced difficulty starting the car. The engine cranked for a long time before starting, ran with severe shaking, had weak acceleration, and emitted white smoke. Since water is heavier than oil and settles at the bottom of the fuel tank, the engine couldn't draw pure fuel, leading to water accumulation in the combustion chamber and unstable ignition. Over time, the retained moisture corroded the fuel injectors, causing rust and clogging, which later cost me a fortune to replace the entire component. To prevent this, I now only park in underground garages to avoid rainwater seepage and choose reputable gas stations, making sure not to leave the fuel tank open for too long during refueling. Using water-removing additives regularly is effective, but it's crucial to detect issues early before symptoms become severe, as it can become a major hassle. This experience taught me that addressing small issues promptly saves a lot of unnecessary repair costs.

[VonSawyer]

Common issues with gasoline mixed with water include difficulty starting, abnormal engine shaking or sudden stalling, and reduced power. Water can accelerate corrosion in the fuel system, such as corrosion and jamming of steel fuel injectors and pumps, damaging injection efficiency. A simple detection method involves checking the fuel filter for water droplets or cloudy sediment in the fuel. Professional equipment is required for handling, including draining water, replacing the filter, and cleaning the fuel lines if necessary to avoid residual moisture worsening the system. Neglecting this can lead to a surge in fuel consumption, component failure, and repair costs amounting to thousands of yuan. I use high-quality cleaners for regular maintenance to reduce risks, especially during the rainy season when inspections should be intensified. Car owners should pay attention to abnormal vibrations or delayed starting—early prevention ensures safety.

[VonWalker]

Difficulty starting a gasoline engine with water contamination, accompanied by severe engine vibration and easy stalling after ignition. Water settles at the oil pan, blocking fuel supply, causing white smoke during combustion and unstable emissions. Prolonged exposure leads to component corrosion, rust formation, and clogged fuel injectors, resulting in costly overhauls. If detected, avoid forcing operation—immediately stop usage and seek professional treatment. Add water removers to protect the system. Simple maintenance prevents long-term damage, saving money and hassle.