Will gasoline spontaneously combust in a car?

[AdelineMarie]

Gasoline can spontaneously combust at high temperatures, igniting at 427 degrees Celsius. Below is relevant knowledge about gasoline: 1. Gasoline classification: The main components of gasoline are C5-C12 aliphatic hydrocarbons and cycloalkanes, along with a certain amount of aromatic hydrocarbons. Gasoline has a high octane number (anti-knock combustion performance) and is graded into 90, 93, 95, 97, etc. based on octane ratings. 2. Gasoline production process: Gasoline is refined from various petroleum-derived components such as straight-run gasoline, catalytic cracking gasoline, and catalytic reforming gasoline, then blended with high-octane components. It is primarily used as fuel for spark-ignition internal combustion engines in automobiles.

[McTimothy]

Gasoline generally doesn't spontaneously combust when stored in a car, but it's highly flammable, especially on hot days or when exposed to ignition sources. I'm always concerned about these risks because last summer I witnessed a car trunk with a leaking gasoline canister. The scorching sun heated up the interior, and static electricity sparked a fire. Gasoline requires an ignition source to burn, such as battery sparks, cigarette lighters, or static electricity from phones. In the confined space of a car, gasoline vapors can accumulate, and a single spark can cause an explosion. Never take chances—I recommend using sealed containers for gasoline. If you must transport it, place it in a cool, well-ventilated area. Avoid leaving the trunk open for too long when the car is hot, and regularly check containers for leaks. Safety first—protect yourself and others.

[DeBennett]

I'm a curious person and have looked into why gasoline doesn't often spontaneously combust. Its auto-ignition temperature is over 400 degrees Celsius, which even the hottest car interior can't reach. However, gasoline evaporates quickly and can form gas at room temperature, igniting with just a spark. For example, smoking or electrical mishaps can trigger it. Storing it in a car is risky—I tested leaving a small bottle in the garage, and after sun exposure, the fumes were strong. This isn't spontaneous combustion but ignition, so it's best avoided. Use sealed metal containers and store in cool spots or trunk corners to reduce danger. Avoid keeping it in the car for even short periods; handle it safely.

[LaBrady]

I have extensive driving experience, and I really don't recommend keeping gasoline in the car. Once, my uncle left a leaking can in the back seat, and when we opened the car door on a hot day, the smell gave us quite a scare. Gasoline doesn't spontaneously combust; it requires external stimuli. The car environment has many potential spark sources, which could accidentally ignite the gasoline. So, I've educated my family not to carry it and to use other methods for fuel storage instead. Ventilation is key, and prevention is the priority.