The Importance of Fuel Additives

Fuel additives are widely used to support fuel system performance, prevent common issues, and maintain engine efficiency. Professional technicians often recommend additives not only to address problems, but also as part of routine maintenance. Most fuel additives generally fall into several key categories:

Gasoline Stabilizers

Over time, gasoline can lose volatility, which may lead to hard starting in seasonal or infrequently used vehicles, such as boats, motor homes, lawn equipment, and generators. Gasoline stabilizers help reduce this risk by slowing the evaporation of volatile components. Many modern formulations also include corrosion inhibitors to protect fuel system components from damage.

Octane Support

Historically, octane boosters were used to increase fuel octane for high-compression engines and to protect valve seats in older engines. Today, modern octane support additives help maintain stable combustion characteristics, particularly in high-performance or high-compression engines, without altering certified fuel ratings.

Fuel Injector Cleaners

Clogged fuel injectors can cause hard starts, sluggish acceleration, and uneven engine performance due to carbon deposits on injector nozzles. Additives formulated for injector cleaning can help remove or prevent these deposits, supporting more consistent fuel atomisation and smoother engine operation.

Upper Cylinder Lubricants

Early gasoline engines sometimes experienced sticking valves due to varnish buildup or low-speed operation. Modern upper cylinder lubricants in fuel additives help maintain smooth operation of valve guides, seats, and piston rings, complementing engine oils and routine maintenance.

Why It Matters

Regular use of appropriate fuel additives can help maintain cleaner fuel systems, support consistent combustion, and potentially reduce wear in critical engine components. While not a substitute for proper maintenance or high-quality fuel, additives can be a practical tool for extending engine reliability and efficiency.