Jack:
If the engine has a spark knock sensor on it, you will do no harm with the
lower octane fuel - even if premium is specified. The engine's management
computer will instantaneously alter ignition and fuel injection maps if
knock is detected to avoid harm. The downside is that if the manufacturer
recommends premium and you elect to use regular, when knock is detected, the
engine will immediately feel down on power - boils down to your call.
I have an '03 car with a knock detector that is supposed to run premium and
have used regular all along - I don't particularly care about the power in
that car.
Check the owners manual for the recommended fuel, and possibly check with a
dealer's service people to confirm that the knock detector is present on
your car.
Earl Kagna
Victoria, B.C.
BT7 tri-carb
BJ8
----- Original Message -----
From: "Brashear, Jack, N" <JNBrashear@garverengineers.com>
To: "Spridgets" <spridgets@autox.team.net>; "HealeyMail List"
<healeys@autox.team.net>
Sent: Monday, June 23, 2008 11:12 AM
Subject: [Healeys] octane needs for 2006 Mini Cooper S
Hi All. I bought a 2006 MC S automatic when it had 10,300 miles on it.
Now it has nearly 20 grand. The PO said she had always used 87 octane
with no problems. Soooo, I have continued using 87 octane with no
apparent problems. Recently I've had folks tell me to use 91+ octane.
Why?? Am I damaging anything by using the lower (and cheaper) 87
octane?? Thanks for your feedback.
Jack Brashear, PE
Project Manager / Water
Garver Engineers
Office: 501-376-3633 Ext. 402
Mobile: 501-352-8890
E-mail: jnbrashear@garverengineers.com
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