
China IV vehicles generally require 92-octane gasoline. Reasons for using 92-octane gasoline: Typically, vehicles with a compression ratio between 9.5 and 10.5 are suitable for 92-octane gasoline. Gasoline is produced by refining various petroleum-derived components such as straight-run gasoline, catalytic cracking gasoline, and catalytic reforming gasoline, which are then blended with high-octane components. It is primarily used as fuel for spark-ignition internal combustion engines in automobiles. China IV Emission Standard: This is the fourth-stage national standard for motor vehicle pollutant emissions. The main pollutants emitted by vehicles include HC (hydrocarbons), NOx (nitrogen oxides), CO (carbon monoxide), and PM (particulate matter). The standard aims to control and reduce vehicle emissions below specified limits through technologies such as improved catalytic converter active layers, secondary air injection, and exhaust gas recirculation systems with cooling devices.

I also drive an old China IV standard car, and the gas station attendants always recommend me to use 98 octane, but it's really unnecessary to spend extra money! China IV cars generally have low compression ratios, and 92 octane gasoline is completely sufficient. It's all written in the manual—checking your car's user manual is the most accurate. Remember to pay attention to the fuel's environmental label; gasoline marked with 'China IV' has a sulfur content more suitable for the three-way catalytic converter of older cars. Using higher-octane fuel may actually lead to incomplete combustion, and over time, the exhaust pipe can turn black. With twelve years of driving experience, my advice is to stick to the manufacturer's recommended octane rating—it's the safest, most cost-effective, and protects your car. Older cars may have deteriorating fuel line seals, so it's also important to regularly check for any leaks.

Yesterday, I helped my neighbor aunt check her 2013 National IV standard car. The gas station staff tricked her into using 95-octane gasoline. In fact, the National IV engine was designed to match 93-octane fuel, which corresponds to 92-octane gasoline today. The key is to check whether the gasoline is unleaded, as leaded gasoline can poison the three-way catalytic converter. Some regions promote ethanol gasoline, and E10 ethanol gasoline can also be used in National IV vehicles, but ethanol concentrations exceeding 10% may corrode the fuel system. It is recommended to check the local fuel type and try to avoid high-concentration ethanol gasoline for older cars. There is usually a fuel label inside the fuel tank cap; if it hasn't been torn off, take a look and you'll understand. Don't believe the claim that using higher-octane fuel saves money—it's purely a waste.

For China IV vehicles, 92 or 93 octane gasoline is most suitable. The gasoline octane rating represents anti-knock performance, not quality grade. Some China IV vehicle owners superstitiously use 95 octane fuel, but in fact, vehicles with compression ratios below 10:1 may experience incomplete combustion with higher octane fuel. I've encountered two cases where long-term use of 95 octane to valve carbon deposits. It's worth noting that after 2017, China's fuel standards were upgraded to China V, with reduced sulfur content, which is actually beneficial for older vehicles. It's advisable to keep gas station receipts in case of engine damage from substandard fuel for consumer rights protection. Some self-service gas stations offer lower prices, but always choose reputable brands. For engine oil, newer standards like SP-grade 5W-30 are quite appropriate.

For National IV vehicles, focus on three key points when refueling: choose 92/93 octane, look for the unleaded gasoline label, and confirm compliance with National IV emission standards (marked on the fuel nozzle). Here's a lesser-known fact: 93 octane gasoline during the National IV era is equivalent to today's 92 octane, and some older vehicles still have 93 octane labels on their fuel caps. Northern drivers should pay attention to switching to winter antifreeze gasoline, with -35 diesel corresponding to National IV diesel vehicles. When refueling, check three signs on the fuel dispenser: gasoline octane rating, unleaded label, and National IV marking. Avoid refueling at stations that have just been replenished by tanker trucks, as this can stir up sediment impurities. It's recommended to set a monthly reminder to check the fuel system's sealing, as rubber fuel lines in vehicles over ten years old are prone to aging and leakage.

Our repair shop frequently deals with National IV standard vehicles that use the wrong fuel. 92-octane gasoline is the cost-effective choice, while 95-octane is not only more expensive but may also trigger the check engine light in older cars. A commonly overlooked point: National IV diesel vehicles require AdBlue! Many drivers mistakenly believe only National V vehicles need it. For gasoline cars, regular use of fuel system cleaner is essential, especially for vehicles often driven short distances. Always refuel at reputable Sinopec or PetroChina stations—smaller gas stations might mix in marine kerosene, which can clog fuel injectors. Additionally, older cars tend to have more sediment in the fuel tank, making a thorough cleaning every 40,000 kilometers necessary. Finally, a reminder: National IV turbocharged vehicles are recommended to use full synthetic oil, but standard 92-octane fuel is sufficient.


