Maruti Suzuki and Toyota, two of India’s most trusted automobile manufacturers, have issued an important advisory to their customers concerning the type of petrol being used in their vehicles. The advisory comes amid rising concerns over the damage caused by using petrol with high ethanol content or of a grade not recommended by the manufacturer.
According to the communication issued, both manufacturers strongly recommend the use of petrol with a minimum 91 octane rating and limited ethanol content, preferably E5 (5% ethanol blend) or E10 (10% ethanol blend). Using petrol beyond these limits — such as ethanol-blended fuels like E20 or above — without proper engine calibration may lead to serious mechanical issues, including corrosion, poor combustion, knocking, and even long-term engine failure.
This warning becomes even more critical for BS6 Phase 2 vehicles, which come with advanced emission systems that are highly sensitive to fuel quality. These systems include components such as particulate filters, NOx traps, and catalytic converters. Substandard fuel can affect their functioning, leading to a reduction in performance and fuel efficiency.
Key Points from the Advisory:
- Use Only Manufacturer-Recommended Fuel:
Vehicles manufactured under BS6 Phase 2 norms are designed for a specific grade of petrol. Owners are advised to check the user manual and fuel flap for recommended fuel type before refueling. - Avoid High Ethanol Content Fuels Unless Specified:
Using E20 or flex fuels in standard petrol engines can degrade engine parts not designed to handle high ethanol blends. Flex-fuel-compatible engines are marked separately. - Risk of Voiding Warranty:
Maruti Suzuki and Toyota both clarified that any damage caused due to the use of incorrect fuel may not be covered under standard warranty terms. This includes fuel injectors, spark plugs, and even engine rebuilds. - Impact on Fuel Efficiency and Performance:
Lower octane or poor-quality fuel can cause knocking, poor mileage, and engine misfiring. These issues not only affect performance but may also require costly diagnostic checks and part replacements. - Availability of Quality Fuel:
Owners are urged to use fuel from authorized and reputed fuel stations. With India moving toward ethanol blending targets, it is important to ensure that your vehicle is compatible with the fuel dispensed.
This advisory highlights a growing concern for consumers as India accelerates its shift toward ethanol-based fuels. While the move supports environmental goals, consumers must remain aware of their vehicle’s fuel compatibility. As fuel formulations evolve, automakers are also likely to update their vehicles accordingly, but until then, following existing recommendations is crucial.
Vehicle owners are advised to stay informed through their vehicle manuals and official service centers to avoid unintentional damage and additional maintenance costs. Following proper fuel guidelines not only protects your car’s engine but also ensures optimal performance and compliance with emission norms.
