The warning comes as 24C temperatures are set to arrive on Wednesday
Petrol and diesel vehicle owners are being advised to ensure their fuel tanks are as “full as possible” this Wednesday as warm weather arrives. Temperatures of 24C are forecast in Wales on Wednesday, and warm conditions could arrive again this weekend.
Fuel experts at 1dot warn that approximately 1-2% of petrol and diesel could evaporate under extreme heat. Specialists from All on the Wrist Auto and Diesel Repair added: “Excessive heat can lead to increased evaporation of diesel fuel, potentially causing vapor lock and reduced engine efficiency.”
They further cautioned: “Additionally, engine oil may become less viscous in hot conditions, potentially compromising its protective properties.”
Hence, motorists are being encouraged to keep their fuel tanks as full as possible. For our free daily briefing on the biggest issues facing the nation, sign up to the Wales Matters newsletter here
However, amidst the rising temperatures across the UK, online reports have been circulating, falsely suggesting that filling up during a heatwave could result in petrol tanks exploding.
These erroneous posts, which have been shared on Facebook and Whatsapp for years, wrongly assert that five cars exploded in the past week due to owners filling their tanks to the brim, reports Birmingham Live.
The RAC has categorically debunked these claims as nothing more than a social media hoax.
In response to the rumours, RAC spokesperson Rod Dennis stated: “There is no truth in this.”
He reassured drivers by saying: “All fuel systems on passenger vehicles are designed to cope with any expansion of fuel, or vapour coming from the fuel.
“There is no risk of explosion from filling up a fuel tank fully and drivers should have no concerns in doing so.
“We’d recommend people avoid the temptation to share misinformation like this via social media.”
Mr Dennis advised motorists to fill their tanks to the brim when possible, particularly before embarking on extended trips.
He also warned that while hot weather can present additional challenges, it’s crucial to take measures to prepare for the rising summer temperatures.