How Does Bad Gas Make Your Car Act?

Bad gasoline in your tank can cause problems in a car engine, like knocking and pinging, engine misfire, rough idling and stalling, according to AA1Car.com. The problems will typically involve how the car drives and its emissions.

Clogged Fuel Injectors

Gas that does not contain enough dispersant-detergent additives may result in deposits building up and clogging the fuel injectors. Over time, fuel delivery becomes reduced or disrupted, causing the engine to run less smoothly, hesitate and even stall.

Low-octane Gas

Gas that does not have enough octane has less resistance to detonation. Combustion becomes less controlled, and shock waves from simultaneous combustion events cause knocking and pinging. Repeated impact from uncontrolled combustion can damage the engine.

Dirty Gas

Gas contaminated with water, other liquids and dirt can cause a car to misfire, sputter and stall. Gas can become contaminated from leaky storage tanks at a gas station, as well as cross-contamination with other fuels or chemicals before it reaches a gas station.

References

• AA1Car: Bad Gasoline
• AA1Car: Fuel Octane Ratings