Should a car use 92 or 95 octane gasoline?
2 Answers
Generally, naturally aspirated engine cars require 92 octane gasoline, while turbocharged engine cars usually need 95 octane gasoline. Some supercars equipped with large-displacement naturally aspirated multi-cylinder engines typically require 98 octane gasoline. Different octane ratings indicate varying levels of octane content - the higher the rating, the greater the octane content and the better the gasoline's anti-knock performance. When refueling, it's best to use the specified octane rating. Here's how to check your car's required fuel grade: 1. Consult the vehicle owner's manual. 2. Check the fuel grade marked on the fuel tank cap.
I always drive my small car and prefer to fill it with 92-octane gasoline when refueling because it’s much cheaper, saving me a good amount per liter. My car’s user manual clearly states that 92-octane is acceptable, so I never waste money on 95-octane. Some say 95-octane performs better, but for a young person like me who just commutes daily or takes short weekend trips, 92-octane is more than enough—the engine starts smoothly without any issues. If the manual required 95-octane, I’d obediently use it to avoid risks like engine knocking or damage. But honestly, most regular sedans run fine on 92-octane, and the money saved can be used to improve life or invest elsewhere. Before refueling, I make it a habit to check the manual or look up the recommended fuel type online to avoid unnecessary trouble. Once, I tried saving money by using 92-octane in a car that required 95-octane, and the engine made strange noises—later, the repair cost me a fortune. Lesson learned. In short, the manual is the golden rule—don’t try to outsmart it.