Hey all,
I just got my 2002.5 proES and I was wondering about what octane people are using for fuel. The dealer said I could use 87, but I was wondering if it really lessened long term engine wear if I used a higher grade.
Thanks,
mcfitch

 

again?!?

check here for your answer:
octane

 

To save you some time, there is no need to run higher than 87 unless you are pinging (not likely).

 

Octane if a primary factor in racing engines with zero valve tolerance to boost horse power.
It is just a way for oil gurus to make money.
Even if your car engine was knocking you could just use an additive.

 

87 is only needed. This is stated several times in the manual. Very unlikely you will get pinging this early in the life of your car.

 

Yep, longer burn time because it is slower burning. That's how higher octane prevents knock...it burns slower. You might actually be contributing to carbon buildup in your engine by using higher octane gas than needed, but at the least you're just wasting money

 

Thanks for the info everyone. I'll just stick with 87.
-mcfitch

 

not to mention that you will also be pumping out unburnt fuel along with your regular exhaust gases. This is worse for pollution and smog than anything else your car does.

 

whit 87 octane my car ping so i use 92 octane.

I do best milage whit 92. and my engine run smoother.

 

AS per the owner manual all you need is 87, I tried all the different octanes up to 94 and found no difference in mileage or performance. We have green gas available here at 89 for the same price as regular 87, I went back to the ordinary.