Helping complete critical chemical reactions to power a vehicle’s internal combustion engine, automotive fuels have unique chemical properties. Given their volatile and highly reactive chemical nature, automotive fuels, such as petrol and diesel have always been the subject of various myths and misconceptions. However, for effective vehicle maintenance and upkeep, it’s important to be aware of facts, not groundless myths. This is why, to dispel some common confusion, let’s learn about some common car fuel myths and uncover the truth about them.
Common Car Fuel Myths, Debunked
From fuel efficiency to inflammability, various aspects of car refuelling have been subjected to misconceptions. Let’s debunk them factually.
Exploding Car Fuel Tank in High Heat
The UAE and its surrounding region experience a fair share of high temperatures throughout the year. Things get a little more intense in summer when temperatures often cross the 50-degree mark. There has been a common rumour that advises motorists not to get their fuel tanks full during soaring temperatures.
According to this myth, there should be some space for the gases and heat that build up in the tank. Moreover, it also advises motorists to open up the car fuel tank’s lid once a day. This allows the hot air inside to evaporate, eliminating the risk of explosion.
However, according to the UAE road safety experts, all these ominous warnings are baseless. The outside temperature should be over 250°C to pose any risk. Putting it simply, the heat should be 2.5 times more than 100°C, which is the water boiling point.
Premium Fuel Can Improve Every Car’s Fuel Economy
There is a reason behind the availability of different fuel types in Dubai and other emirates. Both regular and premium-grade fuels are meant for specific types of vehicles. It’s always better to use a fuel that is best suited to the car engine type. For instance, premium petrol has a higher resistance to engine knock, which makes it suitable for high-performance vehicles.
Similarly, cars that are designed to run on regular petrol need not be refuelled with premium fuels. Refuelling with a higher grade fuel would make no difference in the car’s performance or fuel economy. Everything starts making more sense when you debunk such fuel efficiency myths. That said, to find out which is the right fuel type for your car, always refer to the vehicle’s user manual.
Starting a Car Consumes More Fuel Than Idling
The myth that starting a car consumes more fuel than idling is widely believed. However, it is not entirely accurate. In reality, car engine idling can have serious consequences. Idling for an extended period not only consumes more fuel than restarting your car but also impacts the engine’s health.
Another thing that makes restarting a car more fuel-efficient is the use of direct fuel injection technology. Modern cars have fuel systems that optimise the air-fuel mixture that is needed for combustion. Every time the ignition is turned on, the system only provides the necessary amount of fuel based on the engine’s requirement.
Always Refuel in the Morning to Get More Mileage
The myth that refuelling in the morning provides more mileage is not supported by scientific evidence. The myth suggests that fuel is denser in the morning when it’s cooler, so you get more fuel for the same volume. This leads to increased mileage. While it’s true that fuel density can vary with temperature, the difference is negligible. Moreover, modern fuel pumps are designed to dispense fuel at a consistent density, regardless of the time of day.
Another factor is that petrol stations have underground tanks to store fuel. These tanks are designed to maintain a relatively stable temperature throughout the day and night. This means that the temperature-related fluctuations in fuel density are minimal. Consequently, you can fill up the tank whenever there is a need. Besides, you can follow these fuel-efficient driving techniques to enhance your vehicle’s mileage.
Running a Car on Low Fuel Damages Engine
The misconception that running a car on low fuel damages the engine is debatable. Operating your vehicle with very low fuel levels isn’t advisable, but it might not directly damage the engine. Petrol and diesel contain impurities that often settle at the bottom of the fuel tank.
Keeping the fuel tank at least partially filled can help prevent these contaminants from reaching the fuel system. That said, most modern cars have fuel filters that catch these impurities before they reach the engine, mitigating the risk. However, a malfunctioning fuel pump is among the potential car damages when fuel runs out frequently.
Regularly driving with low fuel can damage the fuel pump. It is because the regular flow of the fuel cools and lubricates the pump. If a car is low on fuel, the pump starts drawing in air instead. As a result of reduced moisture, friction is increased and the fuel pump is subjected to more wear and tear than usual. Make sure to watch out for these common signs of a bad fuel pump.
Manual cars are always more fuel-efficient than automatics
The belief that manual cars are always more fuel-efficient than automatics is outdated. In the past, manual transmissions did offer better mileage because early automatics were heavier and less precise. However, modern automatic transmissions, especially those with continuously variable (CVT) or dual-clutch systems, are designed to shift gears more efficiently. As a result, many newer automatics now match or even surpass manuals in fuel economy, offering smoother performance and better overall efficiency.
Cruise control wastes fuel
Many believe cruise control wastes fuel. However, it actually improves efficiency on highways by maintaining a steady speed and reducing unnecessary acceleration. It works best on flat, open roads.
Air filters affect fuel efficiency in modern cars.
Many drivers believe that dirty air filters reduce fuel efficiency, but that’s mostly true for older cars. Modern vehicles have sensors that automatically adjust the air-fuel mixture, so a clogged air filter doesn’t significantly impact mileage. However, replacing it regularly still helps maintain engine performance and smooth acceleration.
FAQs
Should I fill up my car’s fuel tank in the morning for better mileage?
No, refuelling in the morning for increased mileage is a myth. Fuel density variations due to temperature have minimal impact. Modern fuel pumps maintain consistent density and underground storage tanks stabilise temperatures, making it unnecessary to refuel at specific times.
Will running my car on low fuel damage the engine?
Operating with very low fuel levels isn’t advisable, but it doesn’t directly damage the engine. Fuel impurities settle at the tank’s bottom, but modern cars have filters that prevent them from reaching the engine. However, driving with consistently low fuel can harm the fuel pump due to increased wear. Moreover, be aware of these common symptoms and causes of fuel contamination.
Does using premium fuel improve any car’s fuel economy?
Premium fuel isn’t necessary for all cars. It’s designed for specific high-performance vehicles. Using regular fuel for cars designed for it won’t impact performance or fuel economy. Always refer to your vehicle’s manual to determine the appropriate fuel type.
Does idling consume more fuel than restarting the car?
Idling consumes fuel, but restarting the car after a brief stop is more fuel-efficient. Modern fuel injection systems optimise the air-fuel mixture needed for combustion. Restarting doesn’t significantly affect fuel consumption and is preferable for saving fuel and reducing emissions.
Now that we have debunked some common car fuel myths and uncovered the truth, let’s wrap up. It’s important to be aware of the facts. Car myths are mostly based on false information. Moreover, if you think you’ve heard enough, you may be even more surprised to know that a car can be run on cooking oil. No wonder, the world of autos never fails to amaze us.
That said, whether you are buying a new or used car for sale in the UAE, never experiment with its engine parts or fuel system without consulting an expert.
For more informative pieces to debunk common fuel misconceptions, keep reading dubizzle auto blogs.
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