Can I use 87 gas instead of 93?
As a car owner, you might wonder if you can save a few bucks at the pump by using regular 87-octane gasoline instead of premium 93-octane fuel. While it may seem like a small change, the type of fuel you use can have a significant impact on your vehicle's performance and longevity. Let’s dive into the details to help you make an informed decision.
Understanding Octane Ratings
Octane ratings measure a fuel's ability to resist "knocking" during combustion. Knocking occurs when the air-fuel mixture in your engine's cylinders ignites prematurely, which can cause damage over time. Higher-octane fuels, like 93, are more resistant to knocking and are typically recommended for high-performance engines.
What Happens If You Use 87 Instead of 93?
Using 87-octane fuel in a car designed for 93-octane can lead to several issues, including:
- Engine Knocking: Your engine may experience knocking, which can damage internal components over time.
- Reduced Performance: High-performance engines are tuned to take advantage of premium fuel. Using regular gas can result in decreased horsepower and acceleration.
- Lower Fuel Efficiency: Your car may burn more fuel to compensate for the lower octane, negating any cost savings at the pump.
- Potential Long-Term Damage: Prolonged use of the wrong fuel can lead to costly repairs, such as replacing damaged pistons or valves.
When Is It Okay to Use 87 Gas?
Some modern vehicles are equipped with knock sensors that adjust the engine's timing to prevent damage when lower-octane fuel is used. If your car's manual states that premium fuel is "recommended" but not "required," you can occasionally use 87-octane without causing significant harm. However, you may still notice reduced performance and efficiency.
How to Know What Fuel Your Car Needs
To determine the correct fuel for your car, follow these steps:
- Check your owner’s manual for the manufacturer’s fuel recommendations.
- Look for a label on the inside of your fuel door, which often specifies the required octane rating.
- When in doubt, consult a trusted mechanic or auto service professional.
Final Thoughts
While it might be tempting to save money by using 87-octane fuel, it’s essential to consider the potential risks to your engine and overall vehicle performance. If your car requires 93-octane fuel, stick to premium gas to ensure optimal performance and avoid costly repairs down the road. At Kevin’s Autos, we’re here to help with all your car maintenance and repair needs. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions about your vehicle’s fuel requirements!
Frequently Asked Questions
What cars need 93 gas?
Generally, luxury cars and high-performance vehicles are designed to run on premium gas. Brands like Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Audi often make cars that require premium gasoline. Vehicle models with turbocharged engines, such as Mini Coopers or Subaru WRX also typically need premium fuel to perform at their peak.
What happens if I put regular fuel instead of premium?
If you fill up such a vehicle with regular fuel, you may indeed be voiding a warranty. This will most often come into play if substituting regular for premium leads to significant engine knock or pinging that causes damage to the pistons or other engine components.
What happens if you accidentally put 87 instead of 91 in a Lexus?
Use of unleaded gasoline with an octane rating lower than what is listed for your model year vehicle could potentially result in engine knocking. If the octane rating used is less than required, damage to the engine may occur and which could void the vehicle warranty.
Do I really need 93 octane?
There is simply no need to run the 93 octane fuel. It will not make your car run better. It is not better fuel. It will not increase mileage. All it does is waste your money. High octane fuel in an engine that doesn't require high octane fuel can retard the ignition enough to actually reduce fuel mileage slightly.
Is it OK to mix 93 and 87?
Mixing 93 and 87 gas doesn't have any ill effects. It simply creates a new formula referred to as “midgrade” that's often available in gas stations. Additionally, the difference between premium and regular gas is that the premium ones are of higher quality.
What happens if I put 87 instead of 93?
If you put lower-octane fuel into your high-octane vehicle, whether by mistake or to save money on gas, you'll probably notice the effects right away: things like poor fuel economy, reduced acceleration, and spark knock, which sounds like a high-pitched pinging or rattling noise.
Can I mix 87 and 93 gas?
Mixing 93 and 87 gas doesn't have any ill effects. It simply creates a new formula referred to as “midgrade” that's often available in gas stations. Additionally, the difference between premium and regular gas is that the premium ones are of higher quality.
Do I really need to use premium gas?
Should I use regular or premium gas? You should use the type of fuel the vehicle's manufacturer recommends. A vehicle that runs on regular gas will not run any better on premium fuel. Using premium gas in a vehicle designed for premium gas will help the car perform better and avoid damaging the engine with regular gas.
What happens if I put regular gas instead of premium in my Lexus?
For one, too low grade gas leads to engine knocking, which can damage your engine in the long run. In addition, using regular gas when you should use premium could void your warranty, which will cost you much more than your small savings at the pump.
How to turn 87 octane into 93 octane?
Octane. Now just shake the jug to make sure it's mixed. And it's ready to use. We're dynoing this blueprint engine the same exact way they did at their facility. With 93 octane fuel 34° of timing.
