Author Topic: XTRAIL>Recommended fuel octane level? (Read 4663 times)

tanyamarise · « **on:** August 04, 2005, 09:38:29 am »

We've had our Xtrail for about 6 weeks now and we just love it.

There is just one thing I need to clarify regarding the recommended octane level of fuel for my Xtrail. The manual indicates that I should use "Unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of at least 87 AKI (RON 91).

Does this mean that I should use 87 or 91 octane rated fuel at the pump? I'm not clear on which unit (AKI or RON) of measure is displayed on the gas pumps.

Craig · « **Reply #1 on:** August 04, 2005, 09:49:01 am »

Everyone at www.nissanforums.com uses 87, iirc. We have no problems with regular gas.

tanyamarise · « **Reply #2 on:** August 04, 2005, 10:46:06 am »

Thanks for the reply.

Does anyone know if using a higher than recommended octane level is bad for the vehicle?

What about ethanol? Is it harmful to an XTRAIL?

I also just learned that the AKI value is what is displayed at the pumps in Canada and the US. I was told that RON is displayed in Europe.

Craig · « **Reply #3 on:** August 04, 2005, 10:49:20 am »

I use Sunoco all the time, and they announce on the pumps that they may use up to 10% ethanol. Smainville or one of the other X-Trail owners may be able to provide more info. Otherwise, visit the forums I linked above.

Smainville · « **Reply #4 on:** August 04, 2005, 12:07:36 pm »

I've used 87, Ethanol and 94. I have 94 in it this week, it's running as smooth as it always does. The only difference is it looks like I might achieve more mileage to the tank, I let you know.

sparky · « **Reply #5 on:** August 04, 2005, 12:58:39 pm »

If your Xty runs OK on 87 -- doesn't knock, ping or run on -- then you're wasting your money if you pay for higher octane ratings. It won't hurt your car, just your bank account.

Smainville · « **Reply #6 on:** August 04, 2005, 01:11:00 pm »

Very true, but a friend of mine who is certified to do E-Test recommends a tank of 94 or Ethanol once in a while to keep things clean. A good fuel injector cleaner added as well is the perfect combo. This stuff he learn't in is training.

roundupready · « **Reply #7 on:** August 04, 2005, 02:00:11 pm »

Here's some information on octane:

http://www.chevron.com/products/prodserv/fuels/gas_qanda/api_octane.shtml

safristi · « **Reply #8 on:** August 04, 2005, 02:16:12 pm »

SPARKY...WE can't seem ta KNOCK that basic fact inta the folk that show up here...are they the opposite of retarded....spark'ingly speakin' OF COURSE!!!!!

(Message edited by safristi on August 04, 2005)

barrie1 · « **Reply #9 on:** August 04, 2005, 04:02:44 pm »

To me the higher the compression of the engine the higher the need for Higher octange gas. Thats how I deal with my engines. 2 of them get Premium and the last one gets reg fuel.

tpl · « **Reply #10 on:** August 04, 2005, 05:11:52 pm »

In theory at least the ethanol content should give WORSE fuel economy, not much, probably not enough to notice with a maximum of 10% ethanol. ( 5% less energy in 10% of the fuel makes 1/2% less energy overall) But if the higher octane rating is allowing the ignition to advance a little...