Just saw this while getting gas. Why is it illegal to get less than 4 gallons? - eviltoast
  • mipadaitu@lemmy.world
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    6 months ago

    The vast majority of cars run fine on 87 octane. If that’s what you’re using, then it really doesn’t matter if there is some 89 or 92 in the hose.

    • WindyRebel@lemmy.world
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      6 months ago

      Depends how much, but you’re right.

      Lower octane that puts in higher octane aren’t burning the fuel because higher octane needs a hotter spark to burn it all so you’re essentially wasting money or slowly killing your catalytic converter by putting in a higher octane than what your car is meant to use.

      On the flip side, lower octane in a car that requires higher means the gas ignites quicker which will cause knocking and can damage the engine.

      There’s probably more to it than this, but that is what I was always taught.