In addition, dozens of other cities are voluntarily using reformulated gasoline simply because it's a convenient, inexpensive way to improve air quality. In all, about one-third of the gasoline in the country is reformulated. In the summertime, reformulated gasoline reduces vehicle emissions of pollutants that form ground-level ozone, often called smog. In the wintertime, reformulated gasoline reduces carbon monoxide emissions from vehicles. And year-round, reformulated gasoline reduces toxic air pollutants.
Ozone damages sensitive lung tissue and reduces lung function.
Elevated levels of carbon monoxide cause impairment of vision, breathing, and alertness, as well as aggravating existing heart conditions. Exposure to toxic air pollutants has been linked to increased rates of cancer. Reformulated gasoline produces 15 to 17 percent less pollution than conventional gasoline, and further improvements are expected as new formulas are developed. Snowmobile engine manufacturers have stated that the use of reformulated gasoline in their engines is acceptable, although some offer special instructions if you use reformulated gasoline. As a snowmobile owner or operator, there are a number of simple things you can do if you are concerned about using reformulated gasoline in your snowmobile engine.