by Stop paying extra at the pump!
American drivers wasted billions of dollars last year on premium gas at the pump, even though their vehicles are designed to run efficiently on regular gas.
Are Drivers wasting their money on premium gas ?
In fact, unless a your car explicitly requires premium fuel in the owner’s manual, filling up with a higher octane mixture is a waste of money.
While regular gasoline has an octane level of 87, premium gasoline typically has an octane level of 93.
In the U.S., unleaded gasoline typically has octane ratings of
- 87 Regular
- 88–90 Midgrade (Mix of Regular & Premium )
- 91–94 Premium
It’s also important to note that there is a difference between cars that require premium gasoline and others for which its use is merely recommended.
Engine Knock
Anti-knock sensors do a pretty good job of minimizing the engine knock.
What is octane rating?
Octane rating is the measure of a fuel’s ability to resist “knocking” or “pinging” during combustion, caused by the air/fuel mixture detonating prematurely in the engine.
Detergent and other additives
In the past, the occasional tank of premium gasoline could be used as a way to clean out your IC engine.
Premium mixtures included engine detergent and other additives that helped prevent buildup and increase performance.
However, in response to regulations from the EPA, all gasoline grades, including regular, now contain these detergents and additives.
What octane fuel should I use in my vehicle?
You should use the octane rating required by the manufacturer of your vehicle. So, check your owner’s manual.
Most gasoline vehicles are designed to run on 87 octane, but others are designed to use higher octane fuel.
Can ethanol boost gasoline’s octane rating?
Yes. Ethanol has a much higher octane rating (about 109) than gasoline.
What happens if you use regular gas instead of premium?
Using a lower octane fuel than required by the car manufacturer, can cause the engine to run poorly and can damage the engine and emissions control system over time.
It may also void your vehicle warranty.
In older vehicles, the engine can make an audible “knocking” or “pinging” sound.
Many newer vehicles can adjust the spark timing to reduce knock, but engine power and fuel economy will still suffer.
Why are Regular Gas Prices Lowest compared to Premium??
Regular gasoline prices are competitive in most places and drivers shop for a more attractive price, so stations have an incentive to sell at the lowest price.
Stupid people buy premium gas!
Premium gas is a ripoff, and your car doesn’t need it
Premium gas is a ripoff, and your car doesn’t need it
Selecting the Right Octane Fuel
