What happens if you put bleach in a gas tank?

Since producers of gasoline often boast about the fuel additives they use that help clean the car's engine as the fuel is used, more than a few people have wondered if they could just add some bleach to a gas tank to quickly clear out any "gunk" inside, especially people who have had their vehicles flooded in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy in the Northeast.

While this may seem logical, since bleach is often used to get out stains in white clothing, the thought is also very flawed. Beach is a highly corrosive chemical, and it will react with the organic compounds in the gasoline creating rapid oxidation (rust).

If the car is not driven, it will ruin the gas tank and the fuel lines. If the car is driven, it will likely corrode all the metal, plastic, and rubber that it comes in contact with as the motor runs.

In a "best case" scenario the rust will accumulate and clog the fuel injectors. In the "worst case" scenario the corrosion will cause the engine block to seize, rendering it useless.

Do not use bleach in an attempt to clean out your car's fuel system; in any scenario it will require a costly repair to the vehicle.