Can I Switch from 95 Octane Gasoline to 98 Octane Gasoline Normally?
2 Answers
Normally, you cannot switch from 95 octane gasoline to 98 octane gasoline. It is recommended to consistently use one type of fuel, as mixing fuels can be harmful to the engine and fuel system. The choice of gasoline octane rating should be based on the engine's compression ratio, and higher octane ratings are not necessarily better. Blindly using high-octane fuel should be avoided. If low-compression ratio engines are filled with high-octane gasoline, it can easily lead to carbon buildup in the engine. Conversely, if high-compression ratio engines are filled with low-octane gasoline, the low-octane fuel's anti-knock performance may not meet the standard, causing knocking and eventually leading to engine failure. The main differences between 95 octane and 98 octane gasoline lie in their octane values and anti-knock combustion capabilities. 98 octane gasoline is a mixture of 98% isooctane and 2% n-heptane, while 95 octane gasoline consists of 95% isooctane and 3% n-heptane. 98 octane gasoline offers better anti-knock performance and higher power output, whereas 95 octane gasoline provides standard anti-knock combustion capability.
I've been using 95 octane fuel, and sometimes switching to 98 octane makes the engine run smoother. 98 octane has a higher octane rating and better anti-knock performance, which can protect the engine and reduce wear over long-term use. However, it costs significantly more per liter. If the vehicle's manual recommends 95 octane, using 98 octane is completely fine. The only thing to note is not to mix it with other octane grades; maintaining consistent fuel usage is the most hassle-free. From my personal experience, 98 octane performs better during high-speed driving or uphill climbs, offering quieter operation and slightly better fuel efficiency. If you're just commuting daily, 95 octane is actually sufficient, and switching to 98 octane is more about pursuing an improvement in driving quality. Overall, following the manual is the safest bet, and switching to 98 octane is a secure choice.
