Quote:
Originally Posted by KWMN33
So if 91 is recommended, then putting in 94 is totally fine (but putting in 89 isn't ideal?) Just want to clarify. Thank you all for the helpful answers!
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Due to the timing and compression level of an engine, the octane ratings make a difference in whether or not you can damage your engine more than anything.
So if it calls for a minimum of something, it's because that level of gasoline won't pre-ignite (meaning it won't explode before the spark plug tells it to) under that engine's ideal running conditions. Prolonged detonation/knock will absolutely destroy an engine. Ironically, diesels actually are made to run this way (no spark plugs) and it's part of why diesel engines can last so long compared to gas counterparts.
As someone mentioned, most cars today can sense when that's happening (they have something called a knock sensor) and will retard the timing of the engine to eliminate that problem. The result of retarded timing is less power and often less efficiency.
So while in the very short term some bad gas could "hurt" your engine, the car's ECU will notice and adjust accordingly.