Debunking fuel myths

MANILA, Philippines — We all have our conceptions and misconceptions when it comes to our cars, especially when it comes to what fuel to use for them. Here are four common fuel-related myths that you should know so you don’t fall for any of these again.

Myth #1: All fuels are the same

It’s a common misconception — but not all fuels are the same. Aside from picking the one with the right octane rating for your car, it’s important to pick the one that makes your engine run smoother, longer.

Caltex with Techron featuring their new Clean & Glide technology is an excellent choice. The new Clean & Glide technology is specially formulated to clean and protect your engine — giving the same proven cleaning performance that you’ve come to expect from Techron, but now with friction modifiers designed to protect metal components and improve efficiency by reducing friction.

This offers five enhanced benefits: improved fuel economy, maximized power, reliable performance, lower emissions and a smoother drive.

Myth #2: The higher the octane, the better

Go to any gasoline station and chances are, you’ll come across numbers emblazoned on the pump. The numbers on the pump signify the RON or Research Octane Number of the fuel you’re loading. In the simplest sense, RON determines the fuel’s anti-knocking quality or its resistance to detonation or premature ignition.

You’ll just be wasting money if you fill up with the higher octane grade if your car doesn’t need it. Sticking to the manufacturer’s recommendation found in the owner’s manual is still the best way to go.

What’s more important is to pick the fuel with the right additives that ensure smoother, cleaner performance. A good choice would be Caltex’s new 95-octane Platinum with Techron with Clean & Glide technology, which contains 50 percent more Techron additives resulting in a faster acting formulation.

This Clean & Glide Technology adds a new friction-reducing additive designed to protect metal components and improve efficiency.

Myth #3: It’s best to fill up when it’s cold because you get more fuel

The reasoning here is that when the fuel is cooler, it’s denser. A denser fuel will pack more energy in the same amount of space, so you’ll supposedly get more bang for your buck.

But while density may change with temperature, underground storage tanks are well below the surface, meaning, the stored fuel is almost at a constant temperature.

One of the only times that you’ll find a warmer, less-dense gas is if the fuel doesn’t have time to cool off after being pumped into the underground tanks during delivery. Yet, fuel temperature stabilizes quickly, so the chances of this making any difference are slim.

Myth #4: It’s okay to forcibly top off your gas tank after the nozzle automatically shuts off

Those few extra pumps—especially the practice of some car owners or taxi drivers to even shake the car to cram every possible drop of extra fuel in—after the nozzle automatically shuts off aren’t worth the trouble. It can actually harm your car’s evaporative control system that prevents fuel vapors from escaping into the atmosphere. This system is designed to re-burn vapors, not liquid gasoline that gets pushed out of the gas tank when you fill up. Many times the fuel even spills, ruining a car’s finish and creating a fire hazard. 

Now that I’ve debunked some fuel myths, I hope this removes any worries out there. Always remember, a little knowledge helps a long way in saving you time, money, and effort.