It's strange that 3extra RONs in the upwards direction makes a difference. In the backwards direction, probably understandable, but to give it BETTER fuel that what is is tuned for, sounds odd.
Maybe try BP98 instead if you want to keep it on the 98?

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Should have bought an STI

I don't subscribe to the bigger RON / better fuel theory, but I do know most on here prefer the 98.
The wife believes she gets better ecconomy out of it.

The stock ECU may well be set up for 95 RON not 98.
The extra resistance to detonation of the 98 may infact be a real player here.

Early days yet. Could be a placebo theory..Time will tell.
Keen to hear of other peoples experience though.

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MY00 WRX. 89 Prelude. 99 CRV

Mine has started to do this recently aswell. I would put it down to either the battery or starter motor. If not either of these, a new set of plugs may be needed!

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MY06 STi

Well it's starting like a champ now. Only change is the fuel. 95 RON it is.

Happy wife, happy life.

Thanks guys.

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MY00 WRX. 89 Prelude. 99 CRV

Good result!!

+1 works wicked for me also!
Cheers matto20v

Not sure why a higher octane fuel should be making the car harder to start. It should be the reverse. Higher octane fuels are generally better for an engine. Maybe the 98 fuel tank from wherever you buy your fuel from is contaminated with moisture?
Maybe try 98 fuel from another place and see if after 2 or 3 tanks you have the same issue.
Problem sounds like a battery getting weak or bad battery clamps, earths/contacts or tired starter draining too much current. If the car isn't firing up properly, it could also be a sad fuel pump, dirty injectors or a blocked fuel filter causing the miss until the fuel pressure comes up.

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Yeah id be thinking similar to Karl above.
Fuel pump or Fuel reg giving shytt fuel pressure?

Sorry for hijacking the thread... Just didnt wanna start a new one..
I got a 1996 WRX..
My battery went flat recently coz I left a door slightly open.
Jump started it and its been fine..
but lately ( 3 days or so ) its been hard to start, kinda like the battery is going flat.
Anyway.. Im thinking of replacing the battery..
Would anyone like to recommend a battery.. (make and part number )
I would like to make sure im getting the right one !
Cheers

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Dont think I can fight this anymore, Im listening with one foot out the door !

If you head into any of the usual car parts places (Supercheap for example) they will have a guide that you can use to find the recommended battery type. I replaced my stock one with a Century when it went last year.

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