Is there any impact from mixing 95 with 92 octane gasoline?
2 Answers
Occasionally mixing 95 octane with 92 octane gasoline has no impact, but long-term mixing is not recommended as it can cause engine knocking. 95 octane gasoline is suitable for engines with high compression ratios. If a high-compression engine uses 92 octane gasoline, it may lead to abnormal combustion, knocking, and engine damage. Additionally, carbon deposits in the engine will accumulate faster than usual, resulting in insufficient power, engine wear, or even complete failure. Gasoline is a mixture, and the chemical compositions of the two are relatively similar, with strong anti-knock properties. However, to ensure vehicle safety, it is recommended to use them separately. The difference between 92 and 95 octane gasoline lies in their octane ratings and quality levels. Specific details are as follows: Different octane ratings: 92 octane gasoline contains 92% isooctane and 8% n-heptane. 95 octane gasoline contains 95% isooctane and 5% n-heptane. Different gasoline quality levels: The octane rating of gasoline represents its quality. Higher octane ratings indicate better anti-knock performance, which allows the engine to run more smoothly, reduces wear, and provides better protection for the engine. Using higher octane gasoline in a vehicle designed for lower octane will not cause damage, but the increased octane rating may alter the fuel's ignition point, leading to delayed combustion in the engine. This reduces the engine's power output and thermal efficiency, resulting in poorer performance. Using lower octane gasoline in a vehicle designed for higher octane can cause engine knocking. Since the octane rating is too low, the gasoline's ignition point decreases, causing premature ignition during the compression stroke. If combustion occurs before the spark plug fires, resistance will be generated during the upward stroke. This resistance makes the engine run very unstable. If the knocking is mild, it may only increase noise without significant engine damage. However, severe knocking indicates serious engine issues, affecting not only driving stability but also causing abnormal wear on pistons and cylinders, potentially leading to cylinder scoring. If you accidentally mix or use the wrong octane gasoline, simply refuel with the correct octane next time to restore normal operation. Some drivers believe that using higher octane gasoline can improve performance, but this is unnecessary. If the engine's compression ratio does not meet the required standard, even the best gasoline will not make a difference. At most, it may slightly reduce carbon emissions and keep the engine cleaner.
I've been driving this car, and the fuel grade depends on the model. My manual says 92-octane gasoline is sufficient, but I've tried 95-octane and noticed the engine responds a bit quicker with smoother power delivery, and fuel consumption hasn't changed significantly. In the long run, if your car is designed for 92-octane, switching to 95 might slightly improve performance, but at a higher cost. Conversely, using 92-octane in a car that requires 95 could lead to knocking or engine damage. In short, sticking to the manufacturer's recommendation is the most worry-free approach. Otherwise, you might end up spending more without clear benefits—better to focus on regular maintenance.
