Prizm L4-108 1.8L DOHC VIN 8 MFI (1998)
Fuel: Description and Operation
Fuel System Specifications
Use regular unleaded gasoline rated at 87 octane or higher. It is recommended that the gasoline meet specifications which have been developed by the
American Automobile Manufacturers Association (AAMA) and endorsed by the Canadian Motor Vehicle Manufacturers Association for better vehicle
performance and engine protection. Gasoline meeting the AAMA specification could provide improved driveability and emission control system
performance compared to other gasolines. For more information, write to: American Automobile Manufacturer's Association, 7430 Second Ave, Suite
300, Detroit MI 48202.
Be sure the posted octane is at least 87. IF the octane is less than 87, you may get a heavy knocking noise when you drive. If it is bad enough, it can
damage your engine.
If you're using fuel rated at 87 octane or higher and you hear heavy knocking, your engine needs service. But don't worry if you hear a little pinging noise
when you're accelerating or driving up a hill. That's normal, and you don't have to buy a higher octane fuel to get rid of pinging. It's the heavy, constant
knock that means you have a problem.
Notice: Your vehicle was not designed for fuel that contains methanol. Don't use it. It can corrode metal parts in your fuel system and also damage
plastic and rubber parts. That damage wouldn't be covered under your warranty.
If your vehicle is certified to meet to meet California Emission Standards (indicated on the under hood emission control label), it is designed to operate
on fuels that meet California specifications. If such fuels are not available in states adopting California emissions standards, your vehicle will operate
satisfactorily on fuels meeting federal specifications, but emission control system performance may be affected. The malfunction indicator lamp on your
instrument panel may turn on and/or your vehicle may fail a smog-check test. If this occurs, return to your authorized dealer for diagnosis to determine
the cause of failure. In the event it is determined that the cause of the condition is the type of fuels used, repairs may not be covered by your warranty.
Some gasolines that are not reformulated for low emissions may contain an octane-enhancing additive called methylcyclopentadienyl manganese
tricarbonyl
(MMT); ask your service station operator whether or not the fuel contains MMT.
