Will using private gasoline harm the engine?
2 Answers
Using private gasoline can be harmful to the engine. It is essential to choose properly regulated private gas stations, as the source of the fuel must be registered, and all purchase, sales, and inventory records must be archived for inspection. Most private gas stations source their gasoline from nearby refineries. The main reasons are as follows: Low purity: High impurity content can easily lead to carbon deposits and cannot maintain engine cleanliness. This can also result in insufficient vehicle power. Non-compliant octane rating: Whether the gasoline's octane rating meets standard requirements. The octane rating reflects the fuel's anti-knock properties, primarily determined by the proportion of isooctane. If the standard proportion is not met, the anti-knock performance decreases, leading to engine knocking during operation. Frequent knocking can damage the engine.
I've been driving for over a decade and often refuel at private gas stations. As long as you choose reputable ones, there's usually no issue. Back when I lived in the suburbs, there was a private station that was two yuan cheaper, so I frequented it. The engine ran smoothly, and it was just a way to save on living expenses. However, I remind myself to check the fuel quality more often, as some private stations mix water or impurities into their fuel, which can increase engine carbon buildup, reduce acceleration power, or even shorten the engine's lifespan. If you notice your car shaking or increased fuel consumption after refueling, it's best to get the fuel system inspected and cleaned at a professional shop. Overall, don't risk damaging your beloved car for small savings. Choosing well-reviewed private stations and using them occasionally is fine, but for long-term use, it's safer to stick with more reliable options.
