Can a car that uses 92-octane gasoline use 95-octane gasoline?

[MacFrank]

A car that uses 92-octane gasoline can use 95-octane gasoline, but it is not recommended for long-term use. Engines with a compression ratio between 8.5 and 9.5 typically use 92-octane gasoline, while engines with a compression ratio greater than 9.5 usually use 95-octane gasoline. Occasional use once or twice will not have a significant impact. Differences between 92 and 95-octane gasoline: Compression ratio: Generally, cars with a compression ratio between 8.5 and 9.5 should use 92-octane gasoline, while cars with a compression ratio greater than 9.5 should use 95-octane gasoline. Octane rating: The octane rating of 92-octane gasoline is lower than that of 95-octane gasoline. Specifically, 92-octane gasoline contains 92% isooctane, while 95-octane gasoline has an octane rating of 95%. Price: The unit price of 92-octane gasoline is cheaper than that of 95-octane gasoline. Gasoline grade selection: Common gasoline grades in China mainly include 92-octane and 95-octane. The gasoline grade indicates the octane value in the gasoline, and gasoline with a higher octane value has better anti-knock performance. Diesel grades are different from gasoline grades; diesel grades represent the freezing point. Refueling precautions: Try not to wait until the fuel light comes on before refueling. Because the fuel pump is located inside the fuel tank, it generates high temperatures during continuous operation, and being immersed in fuel can effectively cool it down. When the fuel light comes on, it means the fuel level is below the fuel pump. If you always wait until the light comes on to refuel, it will shorten the lifespan of the fuel pump. Having too little fuel or running out of fuel could also burn out the fuel pump. If the car has been driven for more than 30,000 kilometers, extra caution is needed. When there is too little fuel left, the fuel pump may draw in sediment from the bottom of the tank, which can easily block the fuel pump or obstruct the fuel line.

[AmirAnn]

I've been driving for over a decade and often get asked this question. The main difference between 92 and 95 octane gasoline lies in their octane ratings, with 95 having better anti-knock performance. If your car manufacturer recommends 92, using 95 is completely fine. My own car's manual says 92 is acceptable, but I switch to 95 for long trips—I notice the engine runs smoother during hard acceleration. Just be careful not to mix too many fuel types in the tank; avoid frequent switches before emptying it. Using higher-octane fuel won't harm your car and may reduce knock risks, though it'll cost you more—my full tank of 95 costs me over 30 yuan extra.

[VanBrynlee]

As someone who has been working with machinery for a long time, I can say that switching to higher-octane fuel is technically feasible. An engine originally designed for 92-octane fuel has a compression ratio matched to lower-octane fuel. Switching to 95-octane is like giving the engine a 'bonus meal,' which might improve combustion efficiency by about 1%-2%. I've tested it myself—under the same driving conditions, 95-octane fuel can get you about 20 kilometers more. However, the key is to check the fuel cap or manual requirements. If it clearly states '92-octane only,' don't take the risk. It might be worth trying for those who frequently drive on highways, but for city commuting, the higher cost makes it unnecessary.

[VanReid]

Just helped my cousin with this issue last week. His new car was labeled for 92 octane, but the gas station attendant talked him into filling up with 95. The poor guy panicked and called me asking if it would damage his car. Actually, there's no need to worry at all. Modern fuel-injected vehicles all have knock sensors that automatically adjust ignition timing to accommodate different gasoline grades. Temporarily switching to 95 might make the throttle feel a bit more responsive, but it's unnecessary in the long run unless you're driving a turbocharged model. Remember this principle: you can go up in octane rating, but never go down. If you want to switch back to 92, it's safer to wait until this tank is nearly empty before making the change.