How Does Altitude Affect Octane?
At Higher Altitudes, the Thinner Air Compensates for the Gasoline's Lower Octane, So the Engine Can Usually Run Without Detonation. If You Will Be Traveling...
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Beside this, is 85 octane at altitude the same as 87?
Research several years ago from the American Petroleum Institute showed that lower air pressure at higher altitudes allows vehicles to perform as well with 85 octane as they would with 87 at lower altitudes. Many car manufacturers recommend that motorists use at least 87 octane.
One may also ask, is it bad to use lower octane gas? If the octane rating is less than 91, you could damage the engine and may void your vehicle warranty. They usually warn that using lower-octane gas could reduce performance and fuel economy. When that happens noticeably, or if engine knock occurs, they advise to start using premium.
Beside this, will 85 octane hurt my car?
The key risks: Lower-than-expected octane. Higher mixes of ethanol. Low-octane fuel — rated 85 or 86 as opposed to the 87 for regular gasoline — is common in the Rocky Mountain states, said General Motors fuel specialist Bill Studzinski.
Why is gas lower octane in Colorado?
According to this article from AAA, the stated reason is that most of Colorado is at high elevation, above 5000 feet (about 1500 meters), and the thinner air tends to prevent detonation. Therefore, in theory, one can use the cheaper, lower octane fuel without problems, and save some money.
