2002 pathfinder fuel octane recommendation

[omastaa]

Hello Everyone,

I have a 2002 pathfinder. I have noticed that in the manual there are 2 engine codes. One code says to use 91 octane or better based on the anti-knock index. If you have the other code, it's says it's ok to use 87 octane. I have noticed that I have the engine code that says to use 91 octane or better. My question is, is it ok to use 87 octane anyways especially with the high gas cost nowadays?? Will it actually hurt the engine?? I already had the engine replaced because of the screw that fell out in the valve(the most common engine problem with this year). Anyhelp, I would appreciate it. Thanks

[Mariach]

I have been toying with both recently, and yes, you can use 87 without issue. BUT, in MY experience( i know not everyone will be the same) using 91 i actually got better fuel saving. one regular i was doing about 520km-570km per tank, whereas with 91 i get between 550km and 620km per tank. So I justify 91 by the better savings. but thats just me. i also throw in a tank of 94 once every 6-10 weeks for fun

[Densetsu]

I have the VQ35DE, and I've used both premium and regular fuel without any problems.

However, the increase in fuel economy more than pays for the extra price of using premium fuel. The 3.5L engine was designed to use premium and gets optimum mileage with it... 87 octane won't hurt it, however.

I'd give 94 octane a try, but around these parts you're hard-pressed to find anything except the standard 87/89/91 octanes.

[QX4ME]

I used to compare 89 vs 91 on my four cars, 94 Altima, 96 Maxima, 00 RX300 and 02 QX4. None of them showed any significant increase in MPG. I mean, my driving route and pattern can easily vary more than the difference between 89 and 91.

Therefore, I almost always use 89, and 91 once in a few months just to confirm no difference.