Unleaded Petrol (ULP)

Is unleaded petrol suitable for motorbikes, lawnmowers and outboard engines?

Unleaded petrol is generally suitable for use in motorbikes, lawnmowers and outboard engines, except for a very few which use old engine technology. Refer to your equipment dealer if you have any concerns.

Can vintage and classic cars use unleaded petrol?

To avoid any possible problems, these cars should in general use lead replacement petrol, although some may be able to use unleaded petrol. If you wish to use unleaded petrol, consult the manufacturer.

Engen has a lead replacement petrol available at our service stations for motorists whose cars cannot use unleaded petrol.

When I use unleaded petrol my tailpipe does not burn white as it did with leaded petrol. Does that mean that my engine performs less well?

No, it does not indicate any impact on performance. The white tail pipe when using leaded petrol is caused by lead-based deposits on the exhaust when burning the fuel. When lead is removed, the exhaust burns grey or brown. This does not mean that the engine is badly tuned, or that it has starting using oil.

How do I know if my car can run on unleaded petrol?

First consult your vehicle's handbook. If, after doing this, you are still unsure whether your car could use unleaded petrol you should seek advice from your local dealer. You could also consult the NAAMSA and SAPIA websites. Members of motoring organisations could also telephone their technical advice lines.

If your car can run on unleaded petrol then you can start using it immediately. If it needs protection for the valve seats, then you will have to use lead replacement petrol (LRP) which will, at least initially, be widely available. Alternatively use a bottled anti-wear additive (there will be several products available from which to choose) with unleaded petrol. However, while LRP remains available in your area, using it will be the best option.

What other benefits arise from the use of ULP?

Lead in petrol also results in the formation of corrosive compounds which particularly affect spark plugs and exhaust systems. Thus another benefit to the motorist of using unleaded petrol is that vehicle maintenance costs are reduced.

For more information please use the following Engen sources:

Customer Call Centre: 08600 36436

Technical Advice
Tel: 0860036436 press 3
Email: 1call@engenoil.com

Retail Station Forecourts:
Please ask the forecourt manager to assist in accessing the vehicle compatibility database information.