My coupe has been sitting in my garage since Thanksgiving. I didn't plan on storing it all winter. I figured I would drive it sparingly in the salt and snow but it would get some use. As it turned out, public transit and my wife's Escape let me avoid having to take it out at all.

On the downside, this means that the gas in the tank has been there since Thanksgiving with no STA-BIL in it. I just ran out and started the engine and it ran just fine. No ticks or knocks or anything. Do I need to worry about this old gas in the tank or should I just burn it up quickly and forget about it?

 

If the car started fine then you have overcome the largest hurdle. If it was me I would just go top off the tank. and if it needs and oil change take it a on a good drive warm it up good and then change the oil.

 

OK. I was hoping for that answer as it requires the least work.

Thanks.

 

Do you think it helps that the gas is Shell V-Power? I wonder if the detergents and other stuff they put in their premium fuel makes it last longer than convenience-store gas.

 

Anytime you store gasoline for an extended period you risk varnish and other gunk in the fuel system. Use Sta-Bil next fall and fill the tank fully to eliminate room for condensation. Also change the oil before storage, fully inflate the tires, and park it on carpet remnants if you have a concrete garage floor.

For now, drive it with your fingers crossed. Fill it up a few times as soon as it hits 1/2 tank to flush out the old gas. And I'd suggest a bottle of fuel injector cleaner every other tank for a while to make sure all the varnish gets cleaned out.

 

I'm just back from a couple of hours of driving, mostly highway. I exercised it a bit, letting the RPMs climb to about 4500 after it had fully warmed up. The car ran great. I was quickly reminded why I so love these vehicles. This is a picture of me driving:

I'll put some fuel injector cleaner in it. Any brand recommendations?

I did park it on ramps so there were no flat spots and it was hooked up to a Battery Tender. My SRT was (and still is) stored the same way plus STA-BIL in the tank, a car cover, and a zippered car jacket.

Now I just need it to warm up a bit more so detailing season can begin...

 

As the car ran and sounded great, are there any other signs of gunk I should watch for?

 

If you have been out for a couple of hours I would imagine you are free of any concerns.
Just drive and enjoy !! Gary

 

Excellent! I'll put STA-BIL in it next winter even if I think I'll drive it.

 

I did the same thing, just got it out, filled it up, warmed it up, opened it up, @ 140 I decided it was fine. My wife stole it, and drove it to work, go figure....Doc

PS...really

 

Techron is the best.. It comes in a black bottle. I'd get the bigger bottle (treats 20 gallons). I put it in when the tank is almost empty, put gas in it and shake up the back of the car.

 

Will do. Thanks.