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Does bleach do damage to your car if in the gas tank?

Adding bleach to your gas tank can potentially cause damage to your vehicle's fuel system and engine. Here's why:

1. Chemical Reaction with Fuel: Bleach is a corrosive chemical that can react with the gasoline in your tank. This chemical reaction can produce unwanted compounds or degrade the quality of the fuel.

2. Degradation of Fuel System Components: Bleach can damage the fuel lines, fuel pump, and other components of the fuel system. It can cause corrosion and material breakdown, leading to leaks and reduced performance.

3. Catalytic Converter Damage: The catalytic converter in your vehicle's exhaust system is designed to reduce harmful emissions. Adding bleach to the gas tank can damage the catalytic converter, affecting its efficiency and potentially causing increased emissions.

4. Engine Performance Issues: Bleach can disrupt the combustion process in the engine, leading to performance problems such as rough idling, reduced power, and increased knocking or pinging sounds.

5. Oxygen Sensor Damage: Some vehicles have oxygen sensors that monitor the oxygen content in the exhaust. Bleach can damage these sensors, leading to inaccurate readings and potentially triggering a check engine light or other malfunctions.

6. Warranty Voidance: Using bleach in your vehicle's fuel system may void the manufacturer's warranty, as it's not an approved or recommended additive.

7. Safety Risks: Bleach is a hazardous chemical that can cause skin and eye irritation. Handling and using bleach near the fuel tank or in enclosed spaces can pose unnecessary safety risks.

It's important to avoid adding bleach or other household chemicals to your vehicle's fuel system. If you suspect that your car has been tampered with or damaged due to the addition of bleach, it's best to seek professional advice from a qualified mechanic or automotive service center.