Will using 95-octane gasoline damage the Wuling Hongguang?
2 Answers
Generally speaking, it won't have much impact on the vehicle, but it's still recommended to use the fuel grade specified by the manufacturer. Here's relevant information: 1. Since gasoline is a mixture, the octane ratings we commonly encounter refer to different anti-knock indices (i.e., octane numbers). Strictly speaking, 92-octane and 95-octane gasoline shouldn't be mixed, though their chemical compositions and other aspects are relatively similar, with strong anti-knock properties. 2. Vehicle manufacturers clearly specify fuel requirements before leaving the factory. The appropriate gasoline grade depends on the engine's compression ratio. If a vehicle requiring high-octane fuel accidentally uses lower-octane fuel, the engine may experience knocking, reduced power, increased water temperature, and abnormal phenomena like metallic knocking sounds during operation.
As a seasoned driver of the Wuling Hongguang, I've driven this car for many years. Using 95-octane gasoline won't immediately damage the car, but it's not recommended either. The Wuling Hongguang's engine has a low compression ratio, and the manufacturer recommends 92-octane gasoline because it's designed to match lower-octane fuel. While 95-octane gasoline has higher octane and better anti-knock properties, it may not burn completely in a low-compression engine, leading to increased carbon deposits, higher fuel consumption, and, over time, reduced power and engine lifespan. I've seen a friend's car feel sluggish after switching to 95-octane, wasting money without any benefits. The key is to stick with 92-octane gasoline—it saves money and protects the car. If you accidentally fill up with 95-octane once, just use up the tank and switch back to 92. Remember, don't unnecessarily upgrade fuel during maintenance; it brings potential risks. Using the manufacturer's recommendation is the safest choice.
