Bad Gas Car Symptoms
This article answers what is bad gas, what are the symptoms of bad gas in a car, how is gas contaminated, and what can you do to avoid getting bad gas in your car.
Signs your car has bad gas:
- Engine Stalling
- Rough Idling
- Pinging Sounds
- Difficulty Starting
- Check Engine Light is on
- Higher exhaust emissions
- Decrease in fuel economy, it’s using more gas
What is Bad Gas?
Gas that doesn’t properly combust and impacts the performance of your vehicle.
How does gas get contaminated?
Here are a few examples of bad gas:
- Contamination at the refinery
- Disreputable companies blend heavier and lighter mixes for profit and sell at a higher rate.
- Disreputable companies fill the premium tank with regular and sell it as premium.
- Gas can become contaminated in transportation if the storage has corroded or has sediment.
- Gas stored in a corroded underground tank
- Loose gas caps or poorly sealed gas caps can allow particles or debris into the tank
Things you can do to prevent bad gas:
- Shop for gas at trusted locations that regularly get new fuel.
- Make sure your cap is sealed
- Use the correct gas for your vehicle
- Regularly maintenance your vehicle at an auto repair shop
Do brand-name places have bad gas?
Even trusted names can have a recall in gas. BP recalled 2.1 million gallons of gas in 2012. For having higher than normal polymeric residue.
Are there things you can do to help after bad gas?
Yes, you can use products like Sea Foam with a gallon of fresh gas in your tank to help clean out impurities. Before doing this consult with one of our mechanics at Truman’s Automotive for advice. It depends on the make, model, year, and recommended fuel for your car. Self-treatment without the proper diagnosis could amplify existing issues with your car. It’s important to build a rapport with a trusted auto mechanic to answer questions and get advice.
