Somebody I know, an engineer, told me to use the cheaper gas, I have not done it, what do people think about put mid grade or low grade gasoline into a 2001 BMW x5 3.0?
7 Answers
You may experience a loss of engine compression and a decrease in power and fuel economy. Over time you could experience a knock or ping. That being said, you can more than likely run regular in your car with no problems. I personally use only premium fuel when called for by the manufacturer.
diablomotors answered 10 years ago
Your car's computer automatically adjusts for changes in outside temperature, altitude, and even octane. It will do anything to accurately measure the ingredients going into combustion. You will likely experience a little less power under hard acceleration, but that's all. The higher octane gives your car more pep, but a little less won't hurt it. On the other hand, low-grade or "cheap" gas will do more harm than lower octane. Trust Chevron and 76, as they include fuel injector cleaner in the fuel.
89 is the lowest that engine should use. The M54 engine can adapt quite well compared to newer BMW engines. Also make sure you use top teir fuels in your vehicle.
Thanks so much for your info. I live in Door County, small town type place to live so I have BP to choose from or gas stations that just say 'Gas Depot', So my thought is I go with the mid- grade and not the super expensive, not least expensive but where I live it would be about 89 octane at the BP. Is 89 octane OK compared to the 91 octane I have been putting in for the last 4 years?
I had a 1994 Acura Legend that required premium fuel and I found it cheaper to go to the dollar store and buy octane booster for $1.00 a bottle to add to each fill up. No I'll effects.
