Can Gasoline Go Stale? Here's the full explanation

Maybe for most people this question is quite silly. But for some people this question really answers their doubts. "Can gasoline go stale?" The short answer is yes, gasoline can also "go stale". But of course stale in gasoline is clearly different from stale food which is slimy and moldy. To answer your curiosity, in this article otomodify will write an article about "stale" gasoline.

What is stale gasoline

Stale gasoline is not like stale food. Stale gasoline does not turn into slime or have an odor and mold like stale food. What is meant by stale gasoline is gasoline that has experienced a decrease in quality. Stale gasoline undergoes chemical degradation. Physically, stale gasoline can be identified by a color that changes to a darker color and even tends to be brownish. Sometimes gasoline whose quality has decreased drastically will also leave residues such as varnish that can settle in the tank or fuel system.

Why can gasoline go stale?

Gasoline can experience a decrease in quality or go stale for a reason. Here are some factors that cause gasoline to go stale:

Oxidation process

When gasoline is exposed to air, an oxidation process occurs. As a result of this oxidation, the hydrocarbon compounds in gasoline change into other compounds that are not easily flammable. This process can also form acids and small lumps that clog the fuel system.

Evaporation of Light Components

Gasoline consists of light and heavy compounds. The light compounds found in gasoline have volatile properties. This is why gasoline that is left open for too long or not in a closed tank will experience a decrease in quality or go stale more quickly. The loss of light compounds in gasoline makes the combustion process difficult.

Water contamination

If stored in a humid place or in a container that is not tightly closed, water vapor can enter and settle at the bottom of the container or tank. This water can damage gasoline and cause corrosion.

Gasoline shelf life

How long can gasoline last? The answer depends on how it is stored:

• In a motorcycle or car tank: Gasoline will only last about 1 to 3 months. More than that, the quality of the gasoline will decrease or the gasoline will go stale. In a tightly closed
•  jerry can: Can last 6 to 1 year. This is also determined by the storage conditions (temperature, light, and humidity)

Signs of stale gasoline

Does stale gasoline have signs? Yes, here are some signs that gasoline is stale:

• Color changes: As explained above, the easiest sign to recognize from stale gasoline is its color which changes to darker or brownish.
• Different smell: Stale gasoline has a more pungent odor or smells like paint solvent.
• Sediment or residue: Fine dirt or small lumps are visible at the bottom of the container
• Engine stuttering or difficult to start: When using stale gasoline, engine performance becomes sluggish, stutters, or is difficult to start.

Dangers of using stale gasoline

Stale gasoline will cause many problems in the motorbike engine, including:

• Engine stuttering: Incomplete combustion causes the engine to stutter or even die suddenly when used.
• Clogged carburetor or injector: Residue and oxidation produced by stale gasoline can clog the fuel system.
• Wasteful: Engines that use stale gasoline work harder. This causes the fuel to run out quickly.
• Rust in the tank: Gasoline contaminated with water can cause rust in the tank and fuel lines.

Can it be saved?

If you have already used stale gasoline, can you continue or do you have to replace it? The answer is it depends. For example, the gasoline in the tank has settled for more than 2-3 months, you can still use it by mixing it with new gasoline. The ratio is 1:3.

But if it has been a long time or starts to smell pungent, the gasoline has also changed color, it is better to drain it. Don't be reluctant to drain stale gasoline. Because if you force the engine to use stale gasoline, the risk of damage will be greater.

Tips for storing gasoline

If you really need to store gasoline for a long time, you can try these tips:

• Use a special fuel container. Do not use used mineral bottles, especially those that are still wet.
• Store in a cool and shady place. Avoid direct sunlight.
• Add fuel stabilizer. This is a kind of "preservative" for gasoline so that it does not spoil quickly.
• Fill the tank full if the vehicle is rarely used. This can reduce air space and prevent condensation.

Conclusion

So, gasoline can indeed go stale, and the impact is quite serious if it is still used. A decrease in fuel quality can cause vehicle performance to decline, be wasteful, and even damaged. Therefore, it is very important to pay attention to how to store it, recognize the signs of damaged gasoline, and take quick action.

If your vehicle is not going to be used for a long time, it's better to drain the gasoline or make sure it is stored properly. Don't wait until the motorbike is stuttering before you regret it, okay!