Should I Use Premium Gas If My Owner’s Manual Says Regular Unleaded Is Fine?
Short answer: No. If your owner’s manual recommends regular unleaded fuel, using premium gasoline will not improve performance, fuel economy, or engine life.
Modern vehicles are engineered to run best on the fuel grade specified by the manufacturer. Most vehicles on the road today are designed and calibrated to run on regular unleaded fuel. Paying more for premium fuel in a vehicle that does not require it offers no added benefit and is generally unnecessary.
Why Fuel Octane Matters
Fuel octane measures a gasoline’s resistance to premature ignition under compression. Inside your engine, a mixture of air and fuel is compressed and then ignited by the spark plug. This controlled combustion is what powers your vehicle.
Higher-octane fuel is designed for engines with higher compression or specific performance requirements. If an engine is not designed to need premium fuel, it cannot take advantage of the higher octane.
What Happens If the Wrong Fuel Is Used?
If fuel ignites too early, it can cause knocking or pinging sounds, which may affect engine performance over time. Vehicles that require premium fuel are tuned to prevent this. If your vehicle runs smoothly without knocking on regular unleaded, you are using the correct fuel.
In some cases, certain turbocharged or high-performance engines may recommend or require premium fuel. The best source of guidance is always your owner’s manual or your service professional.
The Bottom Line
- Use the fuel grade recommended by your manufacturer
- Premium fuel is only necessary if your vehicle specifically requires it
- Using premium fuel in a regular-fuel vehicle provides no measurable benefit
If you have questions about fuel recommendations or want expert advice specific to your vehicle, contact Client to speak with a service professional. We’re here to help you make informed decisions that protect your vehicle and your investment.