Can a car that uses 98 octane fuel switch to 95 octane? What are the differences?
2 Answers
It is possible for a car that uses 98 octane fuel to switch to 95 octane, but this should only be done in emergencies and not for prolonged mixed use. The differences between 95 octane and 98 octane fuel are as follows: Difference 1: Different iso-octane values. 98 octane gasoline contains 98% iso-octane, while 95 octane gasoline contains 95% iso-octane. Difference 2: Different additive components. 98 octane gasoline is a mixture containing 98% octane and 2% n-heptane, while 95 octane gasoline contains 95% iso-octane and 3% n-heptane. Difference 3: Different characteristics. The advantages of 98 octane gasoline are "two highs and two lows"—higher anti-knock performance and power output, and lower harmful substances and exhaust pollution. For 95 octane gasoline, high-compression engines should use high-octane fuel; using low-octane fuel in high-compression engines can cause abnormal combustion, leading to knocking, increased fuel consumption, and reduced driving power. Difference 4: Different prices. 98 octane gasoline is more expensive than 95 octane gasoline. Difference 5: The state has strict standards for automotive gasoline. It requires gasoline to have a certain octane rating (commonly known as the gasoline grade), and there are strict regulations on the content of various chemical components in gasoline.
I've been driving for over a decade. I remember once trying to save money by putting 95-octane fuel in my car that was recommended for 98-octane. The engine started knocking badly, and later when I took it for repairs, I found the spark plugs were burnt out. The main difference between 98 and 95 is the octane rating - 98 has higher anti-knock properties, especially important for high-performance engines or vehicles with high compression ratios. Using 95 fuel can cause premature ignition, reduced power, and long-term cylinder damage. Always follow the manual's recommendation - it's not worth the risk of saving small money only to spend big on repairs later. Different fuel grades correspond to different engine designs, and using the wrong fuel might void your insurance coverage. Make it a habit to check the manual to ensure both driving safety and peace of mind.