What are the hazards of frequently using 95 gasoline in a car designed for 92?
3 Answers
For a car that should use 92 gasoline, using 95 gasoline generally has little impact. However, using a higher octane fuel won't increase power and is somewhat wasteful, as the engine's compression ratio doesn't meet the required standard. The anti-knock performance will certainly be better than before, naturally preventing knocking, but it basically won't affect fuel consumption. Below are the relevant details: The primary function of gasoline octane ratings: It indicates anti-knock performance and has no relation to the quality of the gasoline itself. It doesn't mean that higher octane gasoline has fewer impurities. In fuel, the anti-knock substance is isooctane. 92 gasoline: Contains 93% isooctane. The higher the octane rating, the better the combustion stability, preventing the engine from operating abnormally due to knocking. This is why engines designed for 95 gasoline must never use 92 gasoline, as it can cause damage to the engine.
I'm the frugal type who usually drives a car that takes 92-octane fuel. Once, a colleague persuaded me to try 95-octane gasoline, claiming it could extend engine life. After using it for a few months, my fuel expenses increased by nearly 100 yuan per month, and the car didn't feel any better to drive. In fact, I occasionally noticed slight shaking when driving on the highway. After some research, I learned that using 95-octane in a car designed for 92-octane slows down ignition, leading to incomplete combustion and carbon buildup in the cylinders. Over time, this can clog components and require costly repairs. Economically speaking, it's just wasted money. If I kept doing this, the car might develop minor issues prematurely, like difficulty starting or abnormal fuel consumption. So now, I stick to the recommended 92-octane fuel—it saves money and hassle. Why create unnecessary trouble for myself?
I've worked in the auto repair industry for decades and encountered many owners of vehicles designed for 92-octane fuel who, either to save money or misled by rumors, opt for 95-octane gasoline. Honestly, higher-octane fuel has delayed ignition and incomplete combustion, which particularly tends to form stubborn carbon deposits inside the cylinders. Over time, this buildup can damage spark plugs or fuel injector systems, directly affecting engine efficiency. You might not notice any major issues within a few months, but prolonged use can lead to delayed starts, unstable power output, or even a significant increase in fuel consumption. I've seen numerous cases requiring premature engine cleaning, which comes at a hefty cost. Vehicle owners should stick to the manufacturer's recommendation of using 92-octane fuel, avoid being overly clever, and focus on regular maintenance to prevent carbon buildup—that's the right approach.
