Is it better to use 95 octane gasoline for vehicles recommended for 92 octane and above?
2 Answers
Using 95 octane gasoline for vehicles recommended for 92 octane is not better and may have adverse effects. Engines designed for lower octane fuel may experience delayed combustion when using higher octane gasoline, which not only fails to save fuel but also accelerates carbon buildup due to the higher purity of the gasoline. The primary difference between fuel grades lies in the octane rating, which directly relates to the engine's anti-knock properties. Using lower octane fuel in an engine designed for higher octane can lead to knocking. Changing gasoline grades: If you need to switch gasoline grades, you can do so directly. However, when switching from a higher octane to a lower octane, it's best to wait until the fuel gauge light comes on, indicating the fuel level is in the red zone, before refueling. There are no other special considerations; simply refuel as usual. Moreover, it's advisable to stick to one gasoline grade consistently and avoid frequent switching. Increased engine carbon buildup: If a vehicle that normally uses 95 octane gasoline is filled with 92 octane once due to necessity or accident, it generally won't cause harm to the car or the engine. Occasionally using the wrong octane gasoline once or twice won't cause issues, but prolonged use can lead to engine knocking, increased carbon buildup, higher fuel consumption, and wear on the engine.
I've always believed that refueling should be about cost-effectiveness. My car's manual states that 92-octane or higher can be used, so I stick with 92-octane—it's economical and practical. The 95-octane is indeed more expensive, costing about an extra yuan per liter at the gas station, which adds up to significant savings on fuel each month. There's no noticeable difference in power, and fuel consumption changes are minimal—it works perfectly for city commutes or highway driving. Unless your engine requires special fuel or you're chasing driving thrills, 92-octane is more than sufficient. Upgrading to 95-octane is unnecessary and a waste of money; it's better to save those funds for car maintenance or household expenses. In the long run, 92-octane offers higher cost-effectiveness, saving money while providing peace of mind. My advice is to follow the manual.
