When pulling up to the pump, drivers often wonder if choosing premium fuel will boost performance or improve fuel efficiency. With higher prices and flashy marketing, premium gasoline might seem like a better option—but is it really necessary for your vehicle? According to research from the American Automobile Association (AAA), most drivers are wasting money on higher-octane fuel that their cars don’t actually need.
Understanding Octane Ratings
Premium fuel typically has an octane rating of 91 or higher, while regular gasoline averages 87. The octane number refers to the fuel’s ability to resist “knocking” or “pinging” during combustion, which can happen in high-performance or turbocharged engines. However, unless your owner’s manual requires premium fuel, there’s usually no benefit in using it.
Using premium in a car designed for regular won’t increase horsepower, improve MPG, or make your engine cleaner. In fact, AAA’s study found that the extra cost doesn’t translate into measurable gains for most drivers.
When Premium Fuel Is Necessary
If your vehicle’s manufacturer requires premium fuel—often noted on the fuel cap or in the owner’s manual—it’s because the engine is built to operate with higher compression ratios. In those cases, using regular fuel can lead to decreased performance and possible long-term engine damage. Vehicles with turbocharged or high-performance engines typically fall into this category.
However, if your car simply says premium is “recommended,” you’re generally safe sticking with regular unleaded without negative effects.
How to Know What’s Right for Your Car
- Check your vehicle’s fuel door or owner’s manual for requirements
- Visit FuelEconomy.gov to search your car’s make and model for fuel recommendations
- Ask your mechanic if you’re unsure about switching fuel types
Bottom Line
Unless your car requires it, premium fuel is rarely worth the extra cost. For most drivers, sticking with regular gasoline saves money without sacrificing performance. Make fueling decisions based on your engine’s actual needs, not the marketing claims on the pump.
