So I was filling up at BP the other day, and I noticed that the stickers for the Octane level actually say "Minimum Octane Rating" on them. Has anyone else noticed this? and what exactly does it mean?

To me, it means that when I'm filling up with 90 Octane fuel that the gas going into my tank is at least 90 octane. So it could be 91 or 92 or higher for all I know.

So I guess my question is, how accurate are those numbers compared to the actual octane of the fuel? Does anyone really know? or do we just have to assume the "minimum" number is the actual octane rating?

 

I just assume.

 

That is the minimum octane of what is coming out of the hose. It could be a couple of points higher, gasoline will vary from batch to batch. As long as you exceed your car makers number you are ok.

 

The reason for this is because all gas, regardless of the grade is shipped in the same pipeline and mixing occurs---in fact, the gas for all of the companies is shipped within the same pipeline I saw a show on TLC on this.

 

Can you elaborate further? I've been told this before not too long ago. I think the guy told me that companies like BJ's and other off-brand gas providers get their gas from whats leftover from the Amoco's, and Sunoco's? Is this true?

I surely have been using BJ's gas, 93 for $1.95 here in MD. is great!

 

$1.95....damn you are paying too much....we only pay $2.35 over here for shit 91!!!!!!!!