Can You Mix Gasoline from Different Gas Stations?
2 Answers
Gasoline from different gas stations and brands can be mixed as long as they have the same octane rating. If the octane ratings are different, 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, and in severe cases, may lead to engine damage. To find out which gasoline grade your car requires, you can refer to the car's user manual or check the fuel grade marked on the fuel tank cap. What to do if you fill up with the wrong gasoline: If you fill up with a higher octane gasoline than required by your car (e.g., filling with 95 octane when 92 octane is specified), you can simply switch back to 92 octane after the current tank is consumed. If you fill up with a lower octane gasoline than required (e.g., filling with 92 octane when 95 octane is specified), you can add a high anti-knock fuel additive. Alternatively, you can drain the tank and refill with the correct 95 octane gasoline.
Mixing fuel from different gas stations, based on my experience, is generally acceptable. Gasoline has national standard specifications, and as long as it's the same type, such as 92 or 95 octane, the composition differences are minimal. It's safe to mix them for years without issues. I recall driving over a dozen cars, frequently refueling at different places, including Sinopec, PetroChina, and even some smaller brands, and never encountered any problems after mixing. The key reason is that the basic components of gasoline are similar, and although additives may differ, their quantities are small and generally don't affect driving. However, it's worth noting that if your car has a high-end or turbocharged engine, long-term mixing might lead to carbon buildup due to inconsistent additive formulations. It's advisable to mix occasionally to save on fuel costs, but if done frequently, it's best to check and maintain the engine. In summary, everyday family cars can mix fuels without issue, but keep the fuel cap clean to avoid impurities.
