Can you switch between 87 and 91 gas?
As a car owner, you may have wondered whether it's safe to switch between different octane ratings of gasoline, specifically between 87 and 91 octane. Understanding the implications of this choice can help you maintain your vehicle's performance and longevity. In this article, we'll explore the differences between these fuel types, when it's appropriate to switch, and what you should consider before making the change.
Understanding Octane Ratings
Octane ratings measure a fuel's ability to resist knocking during combustion. The higher the octane number, the more compression the fuel can withstand before igniting. Here’s a breakdown of the two common octane ratings:
- 87 Octane: This is typically referred to as regular unleaded gasoline. It is suitable for most vehicles and is designed for engines that do not require high compression.
- 91 Octane: Often labeled as premium gasoline, this fuel is formulated for high-performance engines that require higher compression ratios. It helps prevent knocking and can improve engine efficiency in vehicles designed for it.
When to Switch Between 87 and 91 Gas
Switching between 87 and 91 octane gas can be done, but there are important factors to consider:
- Manufacturer Recommendations: Always check your vehicle's owner manual. If your car is designed to run on 91 octane, using 87 may lead to engine knocking and reduced performance.
- Engine Condition: If your engine is in good condition and does not exhibit knocking with 87 octane, you may switch to save on fuel costs. However, if you notice any performance issues, it’s best to revert to the recommended octane.
- Fuel Economy: Some vehicles may achieve better fuel economy with higher octane fuel, especially if they are turbocharged or have high-performance engines. In such cases, using 91 octane may be beneficial.
Potential Risks of Switching
While it is generally safe to switch between 87 and 91 octane, there are potential risks involved:
- Engine Knock: Using a lower octane fuel than recommended can lead to knocking, which can damage the engine over time.
- Performance Issues: You may experience reduced acceleration and overall performance if your vehicle is designed for higher octane fuel.
- Fuel Additives: Premium fuels often contain additives that can help clean the engine and improve performance. Switching to regular may mean missing out on these benefits.
Conclusion
In summary, while you can switch between 87 and 91 gas, it’s crucial to consider your vehicle's specific requirements and performance characteristics. Always refer to your owner's manual for guidance and monitor your vehicle's performance after making any changes to your fuel type. Making informed decisions about fuel can help ensure your car runs smoothly and efficiently for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it OK to mix premium and regular gas?
There's nothing wrong with mixing premium and regular gas in the same tank. In fact, this is how midgrade gas is formulated at the station. Rather than drawing from a separate storage tank for each octane rating, gas pumps actively mix high-octane fuel with lower-octane fuel to create midgrade gas.
Does 91 gas last longer than 87?
Premium gas does not last longer than regular gasoline in a fuel tank. A car owner might only consider the longevity of a car's gas if the vehicle has been sitting unused for an extended period.
What happens if I put 87 instead of 91 in my BMW?
Using regular gas, which typically has an octane rating of 87, can negatively impact your BMW's performance. The lower octane level can cause the engine to work harder, leading to potential issues like knocking, reduced power, and decreased fuel efficiency.
Is it bad to switch between 87 and 91?
Engine computers can usually adjust their timing to account for the increased octane levels, so if you put premium gas in a regular car, you probably won't notice anything. However, some engines are not designed to burn higher-octane fuel, and you may see a reduction in performance and fuel economy.
What happens if you mix 87 and 91 gas?
Yes, drivers can mix the two types of fuel. The combined gas types will result in an octane level somewhere in the middle — something the vehicle “will survive,” according to The Drive.
Is it okay to switch between regular and premium gas?
Is it bad to mix premium and regular gas? Well, not necessarily. If your car requires premium to run smoothly, but you aren't able to find a station with premium gasoline, it won't hurt to top off with regular gasoline. You do want to avoid running on regular gasoline for extended periods of time.
Will mixing premium and regular gas mess up your car?
There's nothing wrong with mixing premium and regular gas in the same tank. In fact, this is how midgrade gas is formulated at the station. Rather than drawing from a separate storage tank for each octane rating, gas pumps actively mix high-octane fuel with lower-octane fuel to create midgrade gas.
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.
Will 91 fuel damage my engine?
Premium gas is a 91-octane gasoline designed to fuel high-performance engines. A higher-octane rating means the fuel is better balanced and stabilized against spontaneous combustion, which can cause knocking and damage to a car engine.
Is there a big difference between 87 and 91 gas?
The octane level of regular Gas is usually 87 in most states. On the other hand, premium gas is usually 91 or 93 octane. If the fuel is more powerful, it can withstand more compression before it explodes. The higher the octane rating, the less likely the detonation will happen at the wrong time.
