What to Do If There's Water in the Gasoline?
2 Answers
If there's water in the gasoline, you can drain all the gasoline from the fuel tank and refill it with fresh gasoline. Alternatively, you can continue to add water-free gasoline to the tank, which will reduce the amount of water the fuel pump draws in. Water in the gasoline can cause damage to the vehicle. When the water level rises above the fuel pump inlet, it can be delivered into the fuel lines, leading to vehicle damage. This increases the resistance for the fuel pump to draw gasoline, resulting in insufficient fuel supply to the engine, reduced power, and eventual fuel pump failure over time. Gasoline is the fuel for the engine, and its quality affects the combustion quality inside the engine. If you frequently use low-quality gasoline, carbon deposits in the engine will increase, affecting the engine's performance.
When I find water in the gasoline, my first reaction is not to panic and to stop the car to check the specific situation. Usually, water mixing into the gasoline could be due to refueling with water-contaminated fuel or a loose fuel cap allowing rainwater to seep in. I recommend turning off the engine immediately to avoid engine damage. Then, try a simple DIY solution: use a clean, thin tube to siphon out the water-gasoline mixture from the bottom of the fuel tank; you can also pour in a fuel dryer additive to absorb the moisture and then dilute it with fresh gasoline. I've done this myself several times, and it's simple and effective. However, if there's a large amount of water, it's best not to force-start the engine to prevent damage to the fuel pump or injectors. When refueling, always choose a dry gas station, avoid refueling during heavy rain, and ensure the fuel tank is properly sealed as a preventive measure. Throughout the process, be cautious of open flames and prioritize safety first.