Drivers warned pump mistake 'must stop' or they could damage their engine

A mechanic has shared that the petrol octane rating for a represents the minimum number you should with, rather than an exact figure. The technician, who specialises in European automotive maintenance and repairs, advises filling a vehicle requiring 95-octane petrol with 98-grade fuel.

In a video, Ray (@rayseurotech) explains that European cars operate on high compression ratios, necessitating a high octane number for the petrol. Ray suggests that while a European vehicle can run on lower octane fuel, it will only "drive okay" and may need repairs further down the line.

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According to him, using lower-octane petrol in a European car or any vehicle requiring higher-octane fuel can damage the engine's pistons and rings.

He points out that the cost of these repairs will far outweigh any savings made by purchasing lower-octane petrol over higher-octane options.

The car expert emphasises that any octane rating indicates the "minimum octane number" and strongly recommends that UK drivers of European vehicles use 98-grade fuel to fully optimise their car's performance.

Higher octane petrol can also enhance the power and efficiency of classic cars while reducing mechanical issues like carbon deposit buildups causing damage to engine components like valves, reports .

Octane ratings refer to a petrol grade's ability to resist knocking or pinging, which cause increased temperatures inside the engine.

The inside of many petrol cars' fuel tank flaps have a label stating the different octane ratings the vehicle can run on and the specific type of fuel the manufacturer recommends.

While this tip can help remind you of the quality of petrol your car requires, it can also help you refuel rented vehicles.