Can Gasoline from Different Gas Stations Be Mixed?
3 Answers
Gasoline from different gas stations and brands can be mixed as long as the octane rating is the same. If the octane ratings differ, even if the gasoline is from the same brand, it should not be mixed. Mixing different octane ratings can lead to abnormal combustion, causing engine knocking. Knocking not only damages the combustion chamber but also directly affects the normal operation of the engine, potentially leading to severe engine damage. To determine the appropriate gasoline grade for your vehicle, refer to the car's user manual or check the fuel grade labeled on the fuel tank cap. Handling incorrect gasoline usage: If a higher octane gasoline than specified is used (e.g., using 95 instead of the required 92), simply switch back to 92 after the current tank is consumed. If a lower octane gasoline than specified is used (e.g., using 92 instead of the required 95), adding a high anti-knock fuel additive is sufficient. Alternatively, the incorrect gasoline can be drained and replaced with the correct 95 octane gasoline.
I've been driving for over a decade, and mixing gasoline from different gas stations is quite common. For instance, when going on a long trip and the fuel tank is nearly empty, you might have to refuel at a small nearby station, mixing it with the premium brand fuel you usually use. Temporarily mixing gasoline of the same octane rating is generally fine because there are national standards ensuring similar base oil and octane levels. However, avoid mixing different octane ratings, like 92 and 95, as it can result in an inconsistent octane level, increasing the risk of engine knocking. I recommend sticking to one reliable gas station for long-term use since additive formulations vary, and frequent mixing might lead to more carbon deposits in the combustion chamber. Also, be extra cautious when mixing ethanol-blended and non-ethanol gasoline, as some older cars' fuel injectors may not adapt well. If you accidentally mix them, don't panic—just use up that tank and refill with your usual fuel.
As a cautious car owner, I generally avoid mixing different gasoline brands. While blending gasolines of the same octane rating typically doesn't cause immediate issues, the detergent additive formulations vary significantly between stations - Shell's additives focus on carbon deposit removal while Sinopec's may emphasize corrosion prevention, and mixing them could compromise their effectiveness. More crucially, the octane ratings must strictly match; if you normally use 95-octane and temporarily mix in 92-octane, the blended fuel's knock resistance decreases, which is particularly harmful for high-compression engines. I've also noticed differences in fuel tank cleanliness across stations, with some smaller stations having more sediment impurities that could clog filters when mixed into your tank. If mixing is unavoidable, I recommend running through that tankful and then adding a fuel system cleaner. During long trips, I prefer planning routes with major-brand gas stations in advance.
