What Is the Difference Between Regular and Premium Gasoline?

If you’ve ever owned an automobile, you’ve probably been able to differentiate the various pumps at the gas station. Every car has a specific requirement for the type of gas and fuel grade. However, you’d be astonished to know that some people have no clue the actual difference between regular and premium gas. Some people associate their names or numbers with quality and performance; however, that should never be the case.

What Is The Difference in Octane Levels?

Octane is the measure of gasoline’s capacity to resist burning before the spark plug ignites. When the pressure in the chamber reaches a particular point, the gas will combust. You want your spark plugs to light the gasoline at the appropriate time. When your gas combusts too early, you will hear knocking sounds which usually indicate damage. Most gas stations supply at least three octane grades, and they have to be listed as premium, midgrade, or regular. Some locations even have their 93 octane top-tier fuel labeled as “ultra” instead of premium.

What Happens When You Put the Wrong Octane Level Gas In Your Car?

High-performance vehicles with higher compression ratios often need higher octane gas. However, engines that take higher octane tend to work more efficiently and emit fewer emissions.

The recommended octane rating for your vehicle is often indicated on a sticker near the gas cap – and you should always follow what the sticker says. Suppose you want to feel inclined to save money on a lower than recommended level of octane gas. In that case, the gas may combust too quickly and cause unusual sounds, lower the fuel economy, and create extensive engine damage.

On the other hand, the danger is minimal if you buy gas with a higher octane rating than recommended. However, you will just be wasting money because using a higher octane level gas than recommended does not add additional gains.

No matter what fuel grade you choose to put in your automobile, your vehicle will still be susceptible to debris build-up on its valves, pistons, and fuel injectors. An expert fuel system cleaning is required to maximize your fuel efficiency and car’s overall performance. If you need a fuel system repair or cleaning, please bring your vehicle to Red Rock Repair.