Many drivers question whether paying extra for premium fuel is worth it. You see a higher price at the pump, but you also notice labels like “higher octane” that sound appealing. So what does premium fuel actually do, and does your car need it? We’re here to clear up the confusion. In this blog, we’ll discuss the major benefits of premium fuel so you can decide if it’s right for you.
1. Reduced Engine Knocking and Smoother Performance
Premium fuel has a higher octane rating, which helps prevent knocking—a problem that happens when fuel burns unevenly in the engine. By using premium fuel, the combustion process is more controlled, and your engine can run smoothly. For cars designed to use premium fuel, sticking to regular gas may cause reduced power and efficiency. If you’re not sure whether your car needs premium fuel, we can help by checking the manufacturer’s guidelines and your engine’s specifications.
2. Possible Boost in Fuel Efficiency
Some engines can take advantage of premium fuel to run a bit more efficiently. You might see a slight increase in miles per gallon, although this gain is usually most noticeable in vehicles that specifically require or recommend high-octane gas. If your car is built for regular fuel, the difference in efficiency may be small. We suggest reviewing your owner’s manual or letting us check to see if your engine is made to perform better on premium.
3. Added Engine Protection
Premium fuel often contains extra additives that help clean and protect engine parts. These additives can reduce carbon deposits on valves, pistons, and other areas that affect performance. Over time, cleaner engine components can mean fewer costly repairs. Driving in stop-and-go traffic or hot weather benefits from a cleaner engine.
Is Premium Fuel Right for Your Car?
While premium fuel offers benefits, not every vehicle truly needs it. Using premium in a car that is fine with regular gas might not deliver enough perks to offset the cost. On the other hand, if your car’s maker specifically recommends premium fuel, using the lower-octane variety may lead to engine trouble in the long run. If you’re on the fence, our experts can look at your car’s design and your driving habits to see if premium gas makes sense.
Premium fuel can improve engine performance, offer slight mileage gains, and keep key components cleaner. But it’s most useful in cars that are built for higher-octane fuel. If you’re unsure what’s best for your vehicle, we’re here to help. Our goal is to make sure you get the best possible performance without spending more than you need to at the pump. Reach out anytime, and we’ll help you find the fuel choice that fits your car and your budget.