When is the best time to add fuel additive?
2 Answers
Fuel additive is generally added as needed for vehicles with over 20,000 kilometers, typically one small bottle per tank of fuel. Long-term use of fuel additives can be harmful to the engine. Excessive use can increase carbon deposits in the combustion chamber, and if excessive addition continues over a long period, it may even cause engine knocking, detonation, and worsen vehicle exhaust emissions. Fuel additive is a type of automotive chemical, also commonly known as a third-generation gasoline detergent. Its purpose is 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.
I've been driving for over a decade, and I believe the best time to add fuel additive is to pour it into an empty fuel tank before refueling. Why do I say that? Because every time I go to the gas station, I first open the fuel tank cap, pour in a small bottle of fuel additive, and then immediately fill up with gasoline. This way, the additive can fully mix with the fuel and clean the entire fuel system. It's especially recommended to add it when the vehicle has run about 5,000 kilometers or during maintenance, as accumulated engine deposits can easily affect the fuel injectors and spark plugs. If you feel the throttle response is slow or fuel consumption has increased, adding some can help with restoration. Don't add it randomly in hot weather, as it may evaporate and go to waste. Also, older cars can benefit from occasional use to extend their lifespan, but new cars don't need frequent additions. Don't add too much at once—one bottle per tank of fuel is sufficient to avoid adverse effects. Choose reliable brands and don't buy cheap counterfeits.
