Do you HAVE to use at least mid-grade gas for a 2003 Nissan Maxima?

Question

The manual says to use at least MID-GRADE.
Some guy told me to use ONLY PREMIUM in a Maxima.
Someone else told me that it's really ok to use REGULAR.

Who knows from experience?
Am I just throwing my money away by using the best gas?
Does using regular gas cause any mechanical failure?
Does using premium extend the life of the car or keep it from breaking down?

Answer 1

Hey I have an 03 maxima and I use the 93 octane on it only.I tried the cheaper gas one's before well my service engine light came on and in the 4 years i have owned the car this was the first time that light came on.It ended up costing me a new fuel filter which wasn't cheap.I also had to get new sparkplugs cause for some reason after I put that gas he started shaking.So I stick to octane 93 now and I always try to put mobil/exxon gas in it as first choice.I do not suggest citgo gas even their 93 octane I've seen that gas mess up cars too.Well I hope this helps you

Answer 2

Regular is fine. If you had a H.O. (high output) engine or a SS engine then you would need to use a higher octane fuel, but the maxima is not either. It will not cause any mechanical failure if you use regular. Using premium fuel will not extend the life of your car or keep it from breaking down. My mom had a Maxima and all she used in it was regular, it ran like a champ for years!
If you are still concerned, call your local Nissan dealership and ask a mechanic what their thoughts are on it.

Answer 3

Owners manual Section ( 9 ) pages 2 to 5 say 87 octane thats regular but I reccomend a name brand not bargan fuel. Some tip in the accelerator knock is normal but persistant knock is not. And what does it say on the gasoline door? for max performance pernium fuel. Means just that! When you do not need full throttle acceleration and are just driving regular will preform just fine.