Among car owners, it’s common to hear phrases like, “I only fuel at petrol station X,” or “I can’t go anywhere but station Y.” These statements often imply a sense of loyalty to a particular brand or fuel station, with the belief that certain companies guarantee a higher quality of fuel, especially for petrol cars. But is fuel quality really about the brand, or should drivers focus on other factors?
To clarify this, let’s talk about what octane rating actually means and why it matters for your vehicle.
Simply put, the Octane Rating (or octane number) measures a fuel’s ability to resist knocking or pinging during combustion. Knocking occurs when the air/fuel mixture in your engine detonates prematurely, creating erratic bursts of combustion. This can cause a knocking sound and, if left unchecked, lead to performance issues or even permanent damage to your engine.
In a petrol engine, the spark plug is responsible for starting combustion at the right moment. When fuel and air are compressed, a higher-quality fuel with a higher octane rating resists premature combustion, ensuring a smoother, more controlled burn. This helps keep your engine running smoothly, preserving both performance and longevity.
Why Does Octane Matter?
The higher the octane number, the more resistant the fuel is to knocking. This is particularly important in vehicles with high-performance engines that operate at higher temperatures and pressures. If you use a fuel with an octane rating lower than what your vehicle’s engine requires, you may experience knocking, poor fuel economy, and potential engine damage.
It’s important to remember that not all cars need high-octane fuel. Most vehicles are designed to run on regular petrol, which typically has an octane rating of around 87. However, for cars with higher compression engines or turbochargers, a higher octane rating usually 91 or 95 might be necessary to avoid knocking.
To ensure optimal performance, always use the octane rating recommended by your car’s manufacturer. You can find this information in the owner’s manual or, in some cases, on a label inside the fuel lid of your car. Using a lower octane fuel than what’s recommended can lead to knocking, poor fuel economy, and potential long-term engine damage.
In Kenya, the standard for regular gasoline is RON 93 (Research Octane Number), which is often referred to as premium fuel. Some stations also offer higher RON fuels, like RON 95, which are suitable for cars requiring a higher octane. Conversely, RON 87 is available at some stations but is typically used for specific purposes, like fueling boats.
Should You Be Loyal to a Fuel Brand?
The debate about whether fueling at a particular brand guarantees better fuel quality comes down to the octane rating and not necessarily the brand name. While some fuel stations may advertise additives or special formulations, the key factor to consider is whether the fuel has the appropriate octane rating for your engine. If your car’s manufacturer recommends RON 93, then it’s important that you fuel with a petrol that meets that standard.
While brand loyalty is common among Kenyan motorists, the most important thing to focus on when fueling your car is the octane rating. Ensuring that your vehicle gets the proper octane level will help keep your engine running smoothly, enhance fuel efficiency, and prevent damage in the long run.