- Fuel composition: Gasoline with higher octane ratings and fewer impurities tends to have a longer shelf life.
- Storage conditions: Gasoline degrades faster when exposed to heat, light, and air. Keeping the vehicle in a cool, dark, and well-ventilated area can extend the fuel's usability.
- Vehicle's fuel system: The condition of the vehicle's fuel system can also impact fuel longevity. A well-maintained fuel system with a tight fuel cap can help prevent fuel evaporation and contamination.
- Ethanol content: Gasoline with a higher ethanol content may degrade faster due to the hygroscopic nature of ethanol, which attracts moisture.
It's always recommended to use fresh gasoline and avoid keeping it in a vehicle for extended periods. If you know your vehicle will be sitting idle for a while, consider adding a fuel stabilizer to help preserve the fuel quality.