Can I run 87 in my BRZ?
Yes. For most BRZ models, regular 87-octane gasoline is acceptable for daily driving. Higher-octane fuels (91–93) can provide more consistent performance under heavy load or hot conditions, but they are not strictly required. Always check your specific model and year in the owner’s manual to confirm the official recommendation.
Understanding octane and what your BRZ needs
Octane rating measures a fuel’s resistance to engine knock. The BRZ uses a relatively high-compression, naturally aspirated engine, but it is designed to run on regular 87-octane gasoline as a baseline. Higher-octane fuels can help prevent knocking when the engine is operated under demanding conditions and can preserve peak performance on hot days or during spirited driving.
- 2.0-liter FA20 BRZ (roughly 2013–2020 models): Regular 87-octane is the baseline. Using 91–93 octane can offer knock resistance and potential performance benefits during aggressive driving or hot-weather conditions, but it isn’t required for normal daily use.
- 2.4-liter FA24 BRZ (2022–present): Also designed to run on regular 87-octane. As with the FA20, higher-octane fuels are optional and may be advantageous under sustained high-load driving or track use.
- Market notes: Fuel quality and ethanol content vary by country. In many markets, regular 87-octane gasoline with up to a certain ethanol content (often around E10 in the U.S.) is considered acceptable. Always confirm local recommendations in your owner’s manual or with a dealer.
In practice, many BRZ owners use 87-octane fuel for daily commuting and lighter driving. When driven aggressively, in hot weather, or on a race track, higher-octane fuel (91–93) can help maintain consistent performance and reduce the likelihood of knocking. If you notice pinging or reduced performance on 87, switching to a higher-octane fuel is a straightforward option.
Practical guidance for choosing fuel
Before selecting fuel for your BRZ, consider how you drive and where you operate the vehicle. The following guidance outlines typical use cases and best practices.
- Daily driving and normal use: Use 87-octane gasoline. It is usually the most cost-effective choice and is sufficient for standard commuting and regular road driving.
- High-load driving, hot climates, or spirited driving: Consider 91–93 octane to improve knock resistance and maintain performance during sustained high-load conditions.
- Track days or extreme driving: Premium fuel (93 octane or higher, depending on your market) is often recommended to maintain consistent power and prevent knock during prolonged high-RPM operation.
- If you hear engine ping or knocking on 87: Stop driving aggressively, refuel with higher-octane fuel, and consult your manual or a dealer if ping persists.
Conclusion: For most BRZ owners, 87-octane fuel is perfectly adequate for daily use. Higher-octane fuel is a practical option when you push the car hard, drive in hot conditions, or spend time on the track. Always follow the official guidance for your exact model and market, and monitor for signs of knocking under load.
Fuel quality and ethanol content
In the United States, regular 87-octane gasoline commonly contains up to 10% ethanol (E10). BRZ models are designed to tolerate this fuel type, but if you encounter labels indicating higher ethanol content or if you operate outside typical fuel options, consult the owner’s manual or a dealer for compatibility guidance. Using ethanol blends beyond what’s recommended can impact performance and fuel system components over time.
What to do if you hear ping or detonation
Detonation or “ping” is a sign the engine is fighting to run on the current fuel. If you hear ping on 87 octane, try these steps: refuel with a higher-octane fuel (91–93), ensure your fuel system is clean, and review engine timing or knock-detection settings with a qualified technician if ping persists. Do not ignore persistent knock—prolonged detonation can cause engine damage.
Summary
Bottom line: You can reliably run 87-octane fuel in most BRZ configurations for everyday use. Higher-octane fuel is a helpful option when you plan spirited driving, hot-weather operation, or track days, as it can improve knock resistance and maintain peak performance. Always verify the official fuel recommendation for your exact model and market in the owner’s manual and be prepared to adjust your fuel choice based on driving conditions and any signs of knock.
