What to Do If You Accidentally Filled Up with 92 Octane Gasoline?
3 Answers
If you usually use 95 octane gasoline but accidentally filled up with 92 octane once, it's generally not a problem for occasional mixing. Below is relevant information about misfueling: 1. Harm: Reduced anti-knock performance. 2. Solution: Avoid long-term use of lower-grade fuel. However, if you accidentally fill up with gasoline two grades lower than recommended, you must replace the fuel immediately. If you mistakenly use higher-octane gasoline (e.g., filling a car designed for 92 with 95 or 98), there's no need to worry. Higher octane ratings provide better anti-knock properties and won't damage the engine. Therefore, using higher-grade fuel poses no issues. In other words, engines are upwardly compatible with fuel grades.
Yesterday at the gas station, I accidentally filled up with 92 octane gasoline and panicked because my car requires 95 octane or higher. In this situation, never start the engine as it may cause knocking and damage the engine or spark plugs. I quickly pushed the car aside and checked that not too much fuel had been added. Then I called the 4S dealership for help—they sent a tow truck to take the car to their shop where professionals drained the tank and refilled it with 95 octane fuel. The whole process took about half an hour and cost a couple hundred yuan, but at least I could relax afterward. Remember to always check your vehicle manual and fuel cap instructions to avoid repeating mistakes. Next time, I plan to put a reminder label on my keychain so I won’t be careless when refueling.
Last time I went on a road trip, I accidentally filled up with 92 octane gasoline at a highway gas station when my car actually requires 97. But with my extensive experience, I wasn't too worried - driving a short distance back home was fine. After arriving, I used a fuel additive to mix into the tank for dilution, gradually burning off the lower-octane gasoline without major issues. Long-term use of 92 octane can cause engine knocking, increased fuel consumption, and even damage the catalytic converter, so I don't recommend doing this frequently. Generally, filling up a mixed tank once and driving a few dozen kilometers is acceptable, but it's best to visit a shop afterward for a complete oil change and line inspection. Get into the habit of checking the pump number before each refuel - it saves both trouble and money.
