Regan Brown
Whether fresh fuel burns better in a car is a common question, and the answer is not so straightforward. While some people believe that fresh ethanol gas that hasn't been sitting may not have a significant effect on a car's performance, it's important to note that leaving fuel to sit for extended periods can lead to degradation. This is where fuel stabilizers come into play, as they can help maintain the quality of the fuel over time. Additionally, mixing old and new fuel can be a strategy to reduce the risk of clogging the fuel filter. Ultimately, using fresh fuel is generally recommended, especially if the car won't be used regularly, as it can help ensure optimal performance and reduce potential issues caused by degraded fuel.
Characteristics and Values
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Fresh fuel | Burns better in cars |
| Old fuel | Can be diluted with fresh fuel to reduce clogging |
| Ethanol gasoline | Can be stabilized with Sea Foam High Mileage |
| Gasoline and ethanol | Delivered separately to gas stations and blended during delivery |
| Gasoline | Can mix with oil during cold engine starts |
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What You'll Learn
Gasoline and ethanol blends
Ethanol is a first-generation biofuel produced through enzymatic hydrolysis and fermentation. It is blended with gasoline to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and lower global warming. Most of the gasoline sold in the United States contains ethanol, with the percentage expected to increase in the coming years.
Ethanol can be blended with gasoline in varying proportions, depending on factors such as geography and season. Common blends include E5, E7, E10, E15, E25, and E30, with the number denoting the percentage of ethanol in the blend. For example, E10 is a blend of 10% ethanol and 90% gasoline, while E85 contains between 51% and 83% ethanol.
E10 is widely used and is approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for use in any conventional, gasoline-powered vehicle. It is mandated for use in several states across the U.S. and is also found in countries like Brazil, Mozambique, South Africa, Uruguay, and Vietnam. E10 blends can improve octane numbers, reduce hydrocarbon emissions, and increase combustion efficiency.
However, blending ethanol with gasoline is associated with challenges related to phase separation and volatility. Ethanol has a high affinity for water, and when blended with gasoline, it can lead to phase separation due to the formation of an azeotropic mixture. This issue becomes more prominent with higher ethanol percentages in the blend. To address this, researchers have suggested using additives such as ETBE (ethyl tertiary-butyl ether) and ethyl acetate to reduce the tendency of azeotropic mixture formation and improve water tolerance.
Ethanol-gasoline blends above 10% may require specific modifications to the engine, such as a high compression ratio and cold start capabilities, to achieve optimal performance.
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Phase separation
The only way to combat phase separation is through continuous monitoring and early detection. Veeder-Root, for example, offers an innovative Phase Separation Float System that uses multiple densities to detect both water and phase separation, providing better protection for fuel suppliers.
As the use of ethanol in motor fuel continues to grow, it is important for handlers to be aware of the potential for phase separation and to take the necessary precautions to prevent water contamination. Proper handling and vigilance are key to mitigating the risks associated with phase separation.
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Fuel dilution
While it is acceptable for a small amount of fuel to mix with the motor oil, significant fuel dilution can have negative consequences. Reduced oil viscosity can interfere with the formation of a durable lubricating film, leading to increased wear on the engine components. It also impairs the oil's ability to function as a hydraulic fluid, which is crucial in engines with variable valve timing. Additionally, fuel dilution can cause higher rates of ring, piston, and cylinder wear, as fuel can wash oil from the cylinder wall.
There are several causes of fuel dilution. One common cause is frequent cold starts, where the oil does not have the opportunity to warm up to its normal operating temperature and evaporate off contaminants. This is often the case for vehicles that undergo short bursts of driving and long periods of idling, such as police fleets, fire trucks, emergency vehicles, and delivery trucks. Bad fuel injectors can also lead to fuel dilution, as they may allow fuel to trickle into the cylinder and wash into the crankcase.
To determine if your car is experiencing fuel dilution, you can perform an oil analysis or simply smell the motor oil sample, as fuel-contaminated oil will have a distinct odour. If fuel dilution is detected, it is recommended to address the issue promptly. In some cases, using a fuel system cleaner may be sufficient to solve the problem. However, if the issue persists, it is advisable to consult a mechanic for further diagnosis and repair.
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Fuel filter clogging
A clogged fuel filter can cause a host of issues with your car's performance and, if left unaddressed, can lead to engine malfunction. Fuel filters, like all filters, gradually collect and retain particles and debris from the fuel that passes through them over time. Eventually, the filter becomes clogged, impacting its effectiveness and restricting the flow of fuel to the engine.
Signs of a Clogged Fuel Filter
When a fuel filter becomes clogged, it can cause low fuel pressure, which may trigger the check engine light. You may also notice that your engine struggles to start or stalls frequently, especially at idle. The engine may also hesitate, surge, sputter, or stutter at different speeds, particularly during acceleration or when carrying heavy loads. This is because a clogged filter restricts the flow of fuel, causing the engine to hesitate as it struggles to get the fuel needed for increased power and speed. As a result, the engine may overwork or overstress itself, leading to high temperatures.
Preventative Measures
To prevent clogging, it is important to regularly service and replace your fuel filter. The maintenance interval for a fuel filter varies depending on the vehicle's make, model, and year, as well as other factors such as filter quality, vehicle age, and driving habits. Some vehicles may need a replacement every 20,000 miles, while others can go up to 150,000 miles on the same fuel filter. Newer vehicles may even have a lifetime fuel filter that doesn't require routine maintenance and replacement. Always refer to the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule for your specific vehicle.
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Fuel stabilisation
Fuel stabilisers are a great way to preserve fuel in tanks and keep motors running smoothly. They are particularly useful for those who own seasonal equipment, classic cars, or boats that are left sitting for more than three weeks at a time. Fuel stabilisers are also beneficial for vehicles with older engines.
Fuel is a dynamic liquid that can go bad if left sitting for too long. According to RoadandTrack.com, fuel starts to spoil after just 30 days unless it is stored in an entirely airtight container. As a car's fuel system is not airtight, fuel stabilisers are necessary to preserve the fuel in these vehicles.
Fuel stabilisers are designed to prevent oxidation in fuel, extending the lifespan of the fuel. They provide a protective layer for the fuel, typically made from petroleum products, and bond with gasoline to prevent evaporation. By doing so, they also prevent the formation of sticky resins that can ruin a carburetor. On a chemical level, a stabiliser is a mixture of antioxidants and lubricants designed to repel water and limit evaporation.
To use a fuel stabiliser, it is recommended to start with a tank of fresh gas that is about 95% full. The fuel stabiliser is then poured into the tank, and the engine is run for about five minutes to distribute the stabiliser throughout the fuel system. The lifespan of the fuel stabiliser varies depending on the brand, but most mixtures will preserve fuel for up to a year or two.
It is important to choose the right fuel stabiliser for your vehicle and to follow the product instructions. Some stabilisers may contain additional additives to prevent corrosion and reduce moisture absorption, which can be beneficial for vintage cars with steel fuel lines and tanks. Overall, fuel stabilisers are a great way to keep fuel fresh and prevent damage to the fuel system.
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Frequently asked questions
Fresh fuel is always best for your car, especially if you won't be using the existing fuel for a while. It is better to dilute old fuel with fresh fuel to reduce the likelihood of clogging up the fuel filter.
If fresh fuel is not used, the fuel can degrade and lose its optimal performance.
It is recommended to check the age of the fuel and its ingredients. Most gasoline sold in the United States contains ethanol, which can absorb water and cause phase separation over time.
