Can You Mix Gas from Different Gas Stations?
2 Answers
You can mix gas from different gas stations as long as it is the same octane rating, but make sure to refuel at reputable gas stations. There may be slight differences in fuel quality between stations due to varying sources, but refineries adhere to national standards, so even if the octane levels differ slightly, the variations are minimal. Refueling Process: Press the central locking button to open or lock the fuel tank cap; press the side of the fuel tank to open the cap; unscrew the fuel tank seal counterclockwise. The fuel tank cap has a designated slot for the seal—insert it there. Insert the fuel nozzle into the tank to begin refueling. When the nozzle shuts off automatically for the first time, the tank is full. Stop refueling to prevent spillage. After refueling, do not remove the nozzle immediately—wait 5 seconds to prevent minor fuel drips. Reattach the fuel tank seal and ensure it is tightly secured. Refueling Precautions: Do not leave the nozzle in the fuel filler port, as fuel leakage may cause fire hazards. After refueling, double-check that the fuel cap is locked; otherwise, driving becomes unsafe. During refueling, it is advisable for all passengers to exit the vehicle. Static electricity is another concern—discharge static by touching a metal surface before handling the nozzle. Turn off the engine and all electrical devices to prevent sparks or high temperatures from causing a fire. Avoid open flames while refueling to prevent fuel explosions. To avoid running out of fuel while driving, refuel when the tank is near 1/4 full.
I'm a long-haul truck driver who's mixed fuel from countless gas stations, and honestly, there's usually no major issue. Fuel standards are basically unified—grades like 92 and 95 are nationally regulated, so mixing them won’t make the engine quit. To save time on deliveries, I often top up at cheaper roadside stations, and my truck still runs fine. But a heads-up: additive compositions may vary. Long-term mixing of different brands (like Shell and Sinopec) can reduce cleaning effectiveness, leading to more carbon buildup and slightly higher fuel consumption. So saving money is good, but don’t constantly switch stations; stick to well-known brands near highway exits for peace of mind. For older or high-mileage vehicles, just use dedicated cleaners regularly. Bottom line: mixing occasionally is fine, but making it a habit isn’t wise.
