When to Add Fuel Additives?
3 Answers
Fuel additives should be added during each maintenance service. The following are extended details about fuel additives: 1. Cleaning type: Its main function is to clean the fuel system and remove carbon deposits. Use 3 bottles of additive every 5,000-8,000 kilometers. 2. Maintenance type: Its main function is to clean the fuel and reduce emissions. As a gasoline additive, pour it into the fuel tank when refueling. 3. For urban driving, vehicles are more prone to carbon deposit buildup, requiring regular use of fuel additives. 4. For long-distance driving, fuel additives are necessary as gasoline quality may vary in different locations during the journey.
The timing for adding fuel additives depends on your driving habits and vehicle condition. Since I drive frequently, I prefer adding a bottle when refueling to ensure better mixing and effectiveness. Generally, it's recommended to add it every 5,000 km to effectively clean the fuel injectors and combustion chamber, reducing carbon buildup. If you often drive in congested city traffic with high engine load, you may need to add it more frequently, such as every two to three months. Conversely, if you mostly drive on highways in cleaner environments, you can extend the interval to 6,000 km. Don’t forget to choose the right product type—gasoline vehicles should use gasoline-specific additives, not diesel versions. Before adding, it’s best to check the manual or consult a technician to avoid wasting money or damaging the car. Starting early can save you a lot on major repairs.
I bought my own car just two years ago and was initially curious about when to add fuel additives. A friend suggested adding them before refueling, so I gave it a try with a reputable brand—opening the cap, pouring it into the fuel tank, and then refueling to ensure better mixing. Don’t add too much; one bottle is enough, as overdoing it would just be wasteful. If the car shows symptoms like sluggish acceleration or a sudden increase in fuel consumption, you can temporarily add a bottle to clean out carbon deposits. For regular maintenance, though, it’s safer to follow the manufacturer’s manual or app reminders—generally, adding it every three to four months is fine. Remember to choose an affordable yet reliable brand; no need to chase expensive options—just something suitable for routine care. In short, if you’re unsure, take it step by step. Don’t rush into heavy usage right away, especially since new cars are much easier to maintain.
