What will happen to my engine if I use 87octane fuel instead of the 91octane recommended by the manufacturer?

Question

I drive a 2003 Nissan Altima SE. According to the owner's manual, the vehicle requires a 91octane fuel. As I'm sure most of you are aware the 91octane costs 20 to 25cents more per gallon than the 87octane. I met a mananger of a Lexus dealership through a friend and he told me that they use 87octane in all of their Lexus' on the lot (even though ALL Lexus require 91octane fuel). He stated that the high end cars and performance cars are merely in cahoots with the oil/gas companies, and that almost all cars will run great with no negative long-term effects on the 87octane. He said only the super-elite cars like Ferrarri and Lamborghini REALLY need the high octane fuel. I don't know him very well, so I don't know if I can trust what he says. Anyone out there with TRUE real life experience in this matter? Would appreciate educated feedback on this question...e.g. - certified auto mechanic, automobile engineer, 5 years of actually running your car on the lower grade fuel, etc...

Answer 1

You may lose a little gasmilage and your enging may act a little sluggish. I would recommend that you us an injector cleaner about every fifth tank of gas just to keep the injectors clean. I personally have had very little difficulty burning lower grade fuels in all my vehicles which included many which required 91 octane fuel by the factory.

Answer 2

#1 - too much info

#2 - All modern cars come with engine knock sensor - so you would be ok

#3 - you will notice lack of power

#4 - don't drive like that for long term

Good Luck...

Answer 3

you will not notice any difference in power and very little i fuel milage if any. I wouldn't worry about it.

Answer 4

Preignition knock and ping  this will cause severe piston damage over time  not to mention loss of power and efficiency

If the knock sensor detects detonation it will r****d your ignition timing witch will hurt performance and efficiency

Answer 5

I do know now that most gas stations are also running 10% ethonol witch will make it even worse.