I own a 1992 BMW 325i automatic which has given me trouble-free service throughout its 22-year life. I’ve been using lead-replacement petrol (LRP) as directed by CAR since the introduction of unleaded fuel.
Recently, I visited one of my usual petrol stations to top up my tank and was devastated to find out that it no longer offered LRP and was informed that the specific grade of fuel will be discontinued in the next few months. I went to three different petrol stations and was given the same information. After finding LRP at my fourth attempt, I am confused and concerned that I may have to use an unleaded fuel in the future, which may cause damage to my car’s engine. Please can you clarify the situation for me and maybe publish your findings to put my mind at ease, as well as informing the thousands of car owners who are currently using the LRP grade.
GWENDA GILDER, Benoni
Answer: You are correct: LRP will eventually be phased out. We recommend you contact BMW directly concerning the use of unleaded fuel in your vehicle. According to Naamsa’s database (www.naamsa.co.za/unleaded/databases/index.php), your car should operate on unleaded fuel without a problem.