Cmurphy113

I've just taken my 2004 Forester to the dealer to ask this very question. They told me that using low octane fuel allows too much junk to burn in the catalytic converter, producing more exhaust and allowing it to seep in through the vent above the converter anytime the car is not recirculating interior air. (Using the defroster, for example, requires you to use outside air). So I'll try to use 89 octane fuel in the winter at least and see how it goes, but Subaru really needs to find an alternative solution to this. It is unbearable. And, while I really do like my Forester, don't get me started on the steel wheels and mag chloride...