You’re at the gas pump, and you have to make a choice. Hit button No. 1, and you’re getting premium gas. Button No. 3 is regular, and Button No. 2 falls somewhere in the middle. Which should you choose, and, cost aside, does it even matter?
Premium gas is the best choice for some turbocharged or high-compression engines. Regular gas, however, works well for most everyday cars. Here’s how to determine whether you need premium vs. regular gas depending on your vehicle.
Premium vs. Regular Gas at a Glance
Premium gas typically has an octane rating between 91 and 94. Regular gas has an octane rating of 87. An octane rating simply measures a fuel’s ability to resist engine knocking, that knocking or pinging sound that happens when fuel ignites too early in the engine. The higher the octane number, the more stable the fuel is under pressure, and the better it can handle high-compression engines. Premium costs more per gallon at the pump than regular, anywhere from about 60 cents to $1 higher.
What Is Premium Gas?
High-compression engines generate more pressure and heat, and premium fuel helps ensure smoother, more controlled ignition for better performance and longevity. High-combustion and turbocharged cars include the Porsche 911, Mazda MX-5 Miata, Ford F-150 EcoBoost V6 turbo, Volkswagen GTI, and Subaru WRX.
What Is Regular Gas?
Regular gas is suitable for most vehicles on the road today. It’s formulated to meet the needs of standard engines, providing efficient combustion without the added cost of higher-octane fuel. Midgrade gas, with an octane rating of 89, blends regular and premium gas, and some older models or certain V6 engines run best on midgrade.
Does Your Car Need Premium Gas?
Check the owner’s manual or the label inside the fuel door. If your manufacturer requires premium, using lower-octane fuel can affect performance or potentially cause long-term damage to the vehicle. If the car manufacturer recommends premium, you can potentially use regular gas, but you might experience reduced performance or efficiency.
Can You Put Regular Gas in a Premium Car?
Using regular gas in cars designed for premium can lead to engine knocking, reduced power, and potentially more long-term wear and tear. If premium is only recommended, most newer engines can adjust. However, if you notice slight decreases in performance or fuel efficiency, you may want to consider using a higher-octane gas.
Does Premium Gas Improve Performance or Gas Mileage?
In vehicles designed for regular gas, using premium fuel typically doesn’t improve performance or fuel economy. That’s because the engine isn’t built to take advantage of the higher octane, so the added cost rarely delivers benefits. So, if you have a vehicle that takes regular gas, you’ll likely be able to save money at the pump.
How to Choose the Right Gas for Your Car
When you’re choosing between premium and regular gas, follow your manufacturer’s guidance and consider your engine’s design, driving habits, and fuel costs. Using the correct octane in your vehicle ensures optimal performance without unnecessary expense.
Be sure you also keep your vehicle on a regular maintenance schedule to keep it running safely and smoothly. Contact Mercury today to find an auto insurance policy that can keep you covered, whether you run out of gas on the roadside or you need more coverage in the event of an accident.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Mix Premium and Regular Gas?
Yes, mixing premium and regular gas is generally safe. The result is simply a blended octane level somewhere in between, and it shouldn’t harm your vehicle. However, the safest option is to stick with what your car manufacturer recommends.
Does Premium Gas Clean Your Engine Better?
Not necessarily. Octane level and engine-cleaning additives are separate factors. Many gas brands include detergents in all their fuel grades, so premium gas isn’t inherently better at cleaning your engine.
Does Premium Gas Last Longer Than Regular Gas?
No, premium gas doesn’t have a longer shelf life, and it won’t give you more mileage for your money either. Fuel efficiency depends on your vehicle’s design, not on the octane level alone.
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