What Happens When Using Low-Quality Gasoline?
3 Answers
Low-quality gasoline has inferior physical properties such as lubricity and viscosity compared to high-quality gasoline, which can severely affect the engine and the entire fuel system. Using poor-quality gasoline may lead to the following issues: 1. Fuel pump failure due to impurities: The fuel pump contains a filter screen to trap impurities. If the screen becomes clogged, fuel flow is restricted, causing the fuel pump to operate under excessive load. This reduces the pump's lifespan and can easily lead to failure, resulting in insufficient power, engine stalling, and uneven acceleration. 2. Catalytic converter failure due to impurities: The catalytic converter primarily filters exhaust gases for environmental purposes. If it becomes clogged, its internal mesh structure can be affected by chemical elements, forming a plaster-like blockage. A clogged catalytic converter leads to poor fuel delivery, black smoke emissions, and foul-smelling exhaust. 3. Piston failure due to substandard gasoline: Substandard gasoline often contains additives that alter its octane rating. If the required octane level is not met, the gasoline may not burn at the correct time, leading to poor synchronization with ignition. This causes high temperatures in the cylinder, which can melt the aluminum pistons—a condition known as piston crown melting. The most direct consequence of piston crown melting is engine damage.
After filling up with low-quality gasoline last time, my car started acting like it was cursed. The engine makes a gurgling noise when starting, the power is terrible, acceleration is sluggish when stepping on the gas, and the fuel consumption skyrocketed. This kind of fuel has too many impurities, which can clog the fuel injectors and filters, causing knocking. Over time, the engine wears out severely. Spending big money on repairs is one thing, but if something happens on the highway, it's truly dangerous. I later went to a repair shop to clean the entire fuel system, costing me several hundred bucks—totally not worth it. So now I only refuel at reputable major brands and regularly check the fuel system to avoid falling into the same trap.
Having driven for many years, I've seen numerous cases of cars being ruined by poor-quality fuel. It contains water or impurities, leading to loud knocking sounds, unstable idling, and even damage to spark plugs and catalytic converters. In the short term, it might just cost you a few extra liters of fuel, but over time, carbon deposits accumulate, cutting the engine's lifespan in half. I recommend switching back to good-quality fuel immediately if you notice any issues, and use a cleaning additive to help flush out residues. Don't be tempted by small savings, or you'll easily end up with repair bills exceeding thousands. Developing a habit of regular maintenance is the best thing you can do for your car.
