Pouring counterfeit fuel can cause difficulties for cars and motorcycles such as hard starting, engine shutdown while running, or, more dangerously, the risk of fire or explosion.
Counterfeit fuel is created by blending chemical compounds that easily increase the Octane rating along with the proportion of actual gasoline. This type of fuel contains numerous impurities that directly damage vehicles, reduce engine performance, risk engine failure, and even pose the threat of fire or explosion.
So, how does counterfeit fuel affect motorcycles and cars?
Erosion of mechanical components in vehicles
According to many automotive engineers, counterfeit fuel made from ether gasoline and solvent additives that increase the Octane rating, along with impurities, damages the vehicle’s engine components, reducing its power output and affecting the engine’s operation and exhaust treatment systems.
Difficulty in starting and shutting down while in motion
Vehicles using counterfeit fuel for extended periods tend to experience starting issues and may shut down while driving. This is because the counterfeit fuel directly affects the fuel pump system and the engine’s sensors, responsible for providing information to the vehicle’s central control unit, resulting in fuel pump malfunctions and engine errors.
Signs of using counterfeit or poor-quality fuel
One of the easily recognizable signs of mistakenly using counterfeit fuel is the vehicle’s diminished acceleration, delayed throttle response, or a lag when pressing the accelerator or brake.
Additionally, counterfeit fuel can impact the vehicle’s speed, causing unexpected speed fluctuations, even without pressing the accelerator. If the vehicle suddenly shuts down while in motion, it’s a sign of using counterfeit fuel since the combustion process cannot generate the necessary power to keep the engine running.
What to do when counterfeit fuel is suspected?
When encountering these signs, which could indicate the use of counterfeit fuel, it’s advisable to head to the nearest vehicle service center immediately. Drain out the counterfeit fuel and inspect the condition of the vehicle’s engine components in detail.
