Hi everyone,
I am looking to buy a 97-03 maxima and I want mint condition. I am finding that a lot of people went the cheap route and have been using 87 octane fuel. I know the manual only recommends using premium and doesn't require it but I will always only use premium in my maximas. Could the engine be damaged from running on regular fuel for a long period of time? Or should it be fine once I start using premium? I know that newer cars can run on regular fuel with no issues due to new technology but I am not sure about years 97-03. I have read a lot about engine knocking but there are very mixed opinions and experiences. I would hate to let a good car slip through my fingers due to regular fuel usage turning me off, but I also don't want to purchase a car with engine damage. I appreciate any information, thanks!

 

Assuming that all other components are working properly, no. You can run 87 octane forever on a Maxima. The ECU hears some knock, dials back the timing and that's that.

With a bad knock sensor, the ECU automatically dials back the timing no matter what type of fuel you use. So either way, no biggie.

 

I was a cheapskate and ran 87 for the first 2 yrs I had my I35. No performance or fuel-related issues. I now try to run premium since it makes me feel better and I realized coughing up an extra few bucks each time I fill up is no biggie.