How does octane affect performance

It just prevents the air-fuel mixture from igniting before the spark plug does it. Firing the air-fuel mixture at the proper time gives you the maximum power your engine was designed to get. Using higher-octane gasoline than your engine is designed to utilize is only wasting your money. Shop Now. Octane Ratings Posted by: Bell Performance.

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We offer tips on vehicle maintenance and fuel use and update you on fuel-related news. Are You A Pro? Do you own or work for a business that uses fuel? Other than the noise and possible reduced power caused by using a lower-than-recommended octane rating, you'll risk overheating your engine if the uncontrolled detonation is too great.

If your vehicle requires high octane fuel, you should use the fuel grade recommended by your manufacturer. Some drivers can use a lower octane fuel with no problems, but it's no guarantee that will happen with you and your vehicle.

If you have ever driven in high altitudes, you've noticed that the octane numbers at the pump were lower than you are used to. At those high altitudes, regular unleaded is 85 octane, not 87 octane.

In those areas, if your vehicle calls for regular unleaded, choose the octane rating labeled "regular" on the pump. At high altitudes, octane values don't have to be as high in order to get the proper detonation. Don't worry if you fill up and then leave the high altitude. You'll be fine until your next fill up as fuel grades are typically ranges. The U. Environmental Protection Agency even requires that all octane grades of all brands of gasoline contain engine cleaning detergent additives to protect against the build-up of harmful levels of engine deposits during the expected life of your car.

So no matter which octane rating of fuel you use, you're getting engine cleaning additives. You should always use at least the minimum octane rating recommended by your vehicle manufacturer. Using a lower-octane fuel than required can cause knocking and will prevent your vehicle from meeting its stated fuel economy.

Higher-octane fuels can potentially increase performance in some vehicles when towing heavy loads, especially in hot summer weather. With a multifunctional, industry-leading additives package that comes standard in every grade, Cenex gasoline gives you worry-free, fuel-efficient miles on the road. Now who wants to ride shotgun? Spread The Word.