Can You Put Premium Gas in Any Car?

Many new car owners in the Bakersfield area often have questions regarding the type of fuel to put into their vehicles. Common questions we hear often include,“What type of gas does my car take, and can you put premium gas in any car?” When a driver in Porterville purchases a new vehicle, it’s common for most manufacturers to recommend filling a brand-new vehicle – especially a luxury or performance brand – with premium gasoline.

These recommendations are correct, as high-performing cars and newer components run more efficiently, last longer, and stay in a higher state of performance when they burn higher-grade, cleaner-burning fuel. Gas lines and other parts throughout the fuel system and engine experience far less corrosion when owners adhere to the recommended high-octane fuel. But what about any potential downside? Are there any negative consequences for using premium gas, and can you put premium gas in any car?

What Type of Gas Does My Car Take?

When Tulare drivers pull into gas stations, they usually notice various pumps marked with different colors and numeric labels. Each color and specific value (87, 88, 93, etc.) has a corresponding price, and the higher the grade of fuel, the higher the price per gallon. Regular unleaded, or 87, is generally the least expensive of the three major fuel types. A lot of drivers head straight to these pumps because of the price in comparison to the other two options.

What kind of gas does my car take? You should always remember you get what you pay for. There’s a reason this type of fuel is lower than the others. The octane rating is lower, but what does that mean? Octane measures the stability of fuel. An increase in octane means an increase in stability. Mid-grade is around 89 and premium typically falls somewhere between 91 and 94 (93 is the most common). Obviously, the higher octane fuel is better for any gasoline system and eliminates much of the instability and noise associated with burning lower-grade fuels. But if you’re not in a high performance vehicle – is it really worth it?

Premium Gas and Standard Vehicles

If you’re driving an average vehicle, stick with average gas. Standard cars and trucks might run with less noise, but it doesn’t provide many other benefits. What kind of gas does my car take? The answer to this lies in the owner’s manual. It’s best to stick with whatever is contained within the pages of your vehicle owner’s book. High-octane fuel won’t damage your regular vehicle – but you’re essentially wasting money if you opt to pay the additional funds without driving a performance vehicle.

See the Team at Delano Chevrolet for Your Fuel System and Maintenance-Related Needs

If you believe you’re having trouble with your fuel system – things like hearing noises, tapping, clinging, or burning more fuel than normal – let the team at Delano Chevrolet give your car a proper diagnosis. We try and fix it right the first time – saving you as much money as possible – and we’ll never install or recommend any parts you don’t need. Do it yourself kind of car owner? Order parts online and receive genuine OEM components for a better installation and long-lasting fix.