Can You Store Petrol in a Car for More Than a Year?

As long as you like, if you don’t drive the car, BUT the fuel will deteriorate and eventually become unusable.

Yes, you can store petrol in a car for more than a year, but there are several key points to consider to ensure the fuel remains usable. Let’s delve into the details and explore the best practices to keep your vehicle’s fuel system in top condition.

The Risks of Storing Petrol Long-term

Storing petrol in a car for a prolonged period can lead to several issues, including:

Deterioration: Petrol deteriorates over time, breaking down into gums, varnishes, and other sediment that can clog fuel lines and filters. Moisture: The presence of moisture can foster the growth of bacteria, leading to corrosion and potentially causing fuel system issues. Quality Degradation: Alcohols like E10 can degrade more rapidly, leading to faster deterioration of the fuel mixture.

Steps to Extend Fuel Shelf Life for Longer Storage

To maximize the shelf life of petrol in your car, especially if the storage period is extended to a year or longer, follow these recommendations:

1. Use Fuel Stabilizers

Adding a fuel stabilizer such as Stabil can significantly extend the shelf life of your petrol. Here’s how to use it effectively:

Add a dose of stabilizer to the fuel tank. Run the engine for a few minutes to allow the stabilizer to mix thoroughly with the fuel. Refill the tank with fresh petrol to ensure complete mixing.

2. Fill the Tank to Capacity

By filling the fuel tank completely, you minimize the amount of air space, reducing the risk of moisture condensing and contaminating the fuel.

3. Consider Proper Sealing and Storage Conditions

Tanks are not completely sealed, allowing for venting to manage pressure changes. This also means that some air can enter the tank, potentially bringing in moisture. Ensure the car is stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight to prevent unnecessary evaporation and the entry of contaminants.

Answering the Question: Is It Good After a Year?

The answer to whether the fuel is usable after a year is maybe not. The quality of the fuel after a year is highly dependent on several factors:

Whether the petrol contains alcohols like E10. How the storage conditions affect the fuel (temperature, exposure to sunlight, and air access). The effectiveness of the fuel stabilizer added at the beginning of the storage period.

Additional Considerations for Long-term Storage

For long-term storage of a car (over 5 years), it’s advisable to take additional steps:

Change the Tires and Battery: Store the car with the tires properly inflated and the battery on a trickle charger. Lift the Car: Remove the weight from the suspension to prevent damage. Oil Change: Change the oil before storage to remove contaminants and protect the engine.

These additional precautions ensure that when you take the vehicle out of storage, it is in good condition and ready for use.

Conclusion

While it is possible to store petrol in a car for a year or more, it is crucial to take the necessary precautions to ensure the fuel remains usable. Using fuel stabilizers, filling the tank to capacity, and maintaining proper storage conditions are key to extending the shelf life of petrol. For long-term storage, additional steps such as changing the tires and battery, lifting the car, and changing the oil may be required to keep your vehicle in optimal condition.