Chinese car owners in Russia face repair issues linked to Euro 2 petrol

Owners of Chinese-made vehicles in Russia are facing a rise in engine and fuel system failures linked to the use of Euro 2-standard petrol, which remains authorised for sale in the country until July 1, 2027, according to Russian Telegram channel Mash.

Mash reported that service centres have seen at least a sixfold increase in repair requests from owners of Haval, Chery, Geely, Changan, Exeed, Omoda and Jetour vehicles. The reported problems primarily affect engines and fuel systems.

The issues are attributed to the incompatibility between engines designed to operate on Euro 5-grade fuel and the lower-quality Euro 2 petrol available in Russia. Modern turbocharged engines require fuel with a stable composition and advanced additives to function properly.

According to the report, prolonged use of Euro 2 petrol can lead to the failure of fuel injectors, followed by the high-pressure fuel pump and spark plugs. Drivers may then experience warning lights, reduced engine performance, more difficult starting and increased fuel consumption.

Mash said many motorists continue to use Euro 2 petrol without being aware of the potential risks, exacerbating the damage.

Repair costs typically range between 10,000 and 15,000 roubles ($122-$182), although some cases reportedly require far more extensive and costly repairs.

By Aghakazim Guliyev