When is the best time to add fuel additive?
2 Answers
Fuel additive is best added after exceeding 20,000 kilometers. The functions and usage methods of fuel additive are as follows: Functions of fuel additive: Fuel additive has significant cleaning effects on the fuel intake system of a car, especially for carbon deposits in the fuel injectors and intake valves, without causing adverse effects on the engine. The only drawback is that it cannot clean the throttle body. During driving, fuel additive can gradually clean the deposits in the fuel intake system, significantly improving fuel atomization, making combustion more complete, and increasing thermal efficiency, thereby achieving certain fuel-saving effects. Usage method of fuel additive: Using fuel additive is quite convenient. Before refueling at a gas station, add the fuel additive to the car's fuel tank according to the recommended ratio, then proceed with refueling. This way, the added fuel additive will quickly dissolve fully under the impact and vortex stirring of the fuel, ensuring a more uniform mixture of fuel additive and fuel.
I've been driving for over a decade and often use fuel additives to maintain my engine. To be honest, timing is crucial. I've found the most ideal method is to add it to an empty tank right before refueling, then immediately fill up the tank to mix it evenly—this gives the best carbon deposit cleaning effect. Another good opportunity is during regular vehicle maintenance, such as adding it quarterly or every 5,000 kilometers, which helps prevent fuel deposits that can lead to increased fuel consumption or reduced power. If the car shows symptoms like unstable idling or weak acceleration, adding the additive can quickly restore performance, but I don't recommend relying solely on symptoms as indicators. Always check the manual and avoid exceeding the recommended dosage. Driving habits also matter—I often add it before long highway trips, about an hour in advance, ensuring more complete combustion for better fuel efficiency and lower emissions. For safety, never add it when the engine is hot, as it can cause accidents; choose when the car is cool or just parked. Overall, developing a regular additive routine is more reliable than emergency fixes and can extend engine life.
