We hope you know that there are different gas types. But one thing we find is that people don’t know the difference between those fuel types. This week we are breaking it down for you (and us) so we all know the difference! Check it out below and if you’re ready to upgrade your ride, stop in to see our team for a test drive!

What is the difference between fuel types?

• The first and most obvious difference is the price! I mean, when you pull up and the “premium” fuel is more expensive, it’s pretty obvious of that first difference. But,  did you know that premium fuel tends to run about 20 cents higher than regular fuel? Yup, it’s the truth!
• In addition to the price, premium fuel comes with a higher octane level. Those numbers, commonly seen as 92 or 93 and 87, are to differentiate the octane levels of premium, being higher number, to regular gas, lower number. Octane is how much compression a fuel can withstand before igniting – a higher octane gas won’t pre-ignite or explode as quickly as lower octane gas.

The right fuel matters, here’s why…

Each and every vehicle is designed differently and each one is designed to run at top performance with a specific type of fuel. If you’re unsure which type of fuel you should be filling up with, give us a call or check your owners manual for answers!

While it might be tempting to fill your vehicle up with a lower grade of octane to save money, it could damage your vehicle and your vehicle will not perform as it is intended if it is required to use higher octane levels. The issue? These lower octane levels allow combustion to happen too fast in your engine which can lead to issues. Issues like your engine could begin to make knocking noises, reducing your car’s power and fuel economy, and potentially cause engine damage.

When the roles are reversed, using higher octane fuel when you usually use regular, the risk isn’t as great. If you use regular gas and switch to premium gas, you won’t notice any extra benefits. So, in my opinion, save your money and fill up with the octane level your vehicle is asking for.