Can you run my 2008 350z on 95 octane?

Answer 1

Technically, yes you can, though the recommendation is to use 98 octane or above. If you use 95 instead, you'll be fine around town and at low speeds (you could use lower if desperate), but at high engine speeds, the lower octane fuel is more prone to pre-ignition or 'pinking'. Modern engines detect this, and will adjust the ignition timing accordingly to try and prevent any damage to the engine. Assuming the engine can prevent any damage, this simply means that, at best, you're not getting the power that the engine is capable of delivering, and the output that the ECU is mapped for. For the difference in price, you might as well put in the super and enjoy the car you've bought as it was intended to be enjoyed. You've spent the money on getting a 350Z, why would you scrimp and get reduced performance? You might as well have just bought a lower capacity car and saved your pennies by getting more fuel efficiency. It's like bagging yourself a gorgeous, witty, intelligent, sporty, but kinda high-maintenance girlfriend and taking her to McDonalds for a date. She's perfectly able to eat the food, but she won't love you for it, and she certainly won't perform later...