- Different octane ratings: Lawn mower gas typically has a lower octane rating than automotive gasoline. Most cars require gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher, while lawn mower gas is typically rated at 86 or lower. This is particularly crucial for performance vehicles or those fitted with turbochargers or superchargers.
- Oxygenation level: Lawn mower gas is typically blended with ethanol at higher concentrations than automotive gasoline, which can affect mixture combustion and lead to engine knocking.
- Additives: Automotive gasoline includes detergents and additives intended to keep fuel lines, injectors, and other car parts clean, which lawn mower gas may not have.
- Potential risks: Using lawn mower gas in a car can lead to engine damage, knocking, reduced performance, and potential harm to the oxygen sensors and the catalytic converter.
If you are in need of fuel in an emergency, it's preferable to use a small quantity of lawn mower gas blended with the right amount of automotive gasoline to get to the nearest gas station where your car can be filled with suitable fuel.
