The article discusses the common misconception surrounding gasoline octane ratings and their effect on engine performance. It clarifies that octane rating is a measure of a fuel’s resistance to engine knock, also known as pre-ignition or detonation, not a measure of its energy content or cleaning ability.
Using a higher octane fuel than your car requires will not improve performance or fuel economy. In fact, it’s a waste of money. The engine control unit (ECU) is calibrated to perform optimally with the manufacturer-recommended octane rating.
However, using a lower octane fuel than recommended can cause engine knocking, which over time can damage the engine. Vehicles designed for premium fuel have higher compression ratios and advanced ignition timing, making them more susceptible to knock with regular fuel. The engine’s knock sensors may try to compensate by retarding the timing, which can decrease performance and fuel economy.
The article emphasizes that you should always use the octane rating specified in your owner’s manual. Ignoring this recommendation can lead to either unnecessary expense or potential engine damage. Modern cars are generally equipped to handle slight variations in octane, but consistent use of the wrong grade will have long-term consequences.
find the original article here: https://autos.yahoo.com/ownership/articles/really-dangerous-put-wrong-octane-151957260.html