Premium vs. Regular Gas: What’s the Difference?

You can find two types of fuel at Dixon gas stations: premium and regular gas. So, what exactly is the difference between premium and regular gas? While both will get your vehicle running, not all models require premium fuel. Most cars run just fine on regular gas. However, high-performance models or those with specific engine requirements may need premium fuel to achieve optimal performance and efficiency. Compare premium vs. regular gas below, and don’t hesitate to reach out to us with any questions.

What is Premium Gasoline? 

Premium gas and regular gas share several qualities, such as the fact that both are produced from crude oil and both are combustible. Where the two types vary is the octane level. Most premium gasoline will have an octane level that is 90 or above. Premium gasoline helps keep your engine cleaner, which leads to less pollution.

What is Regular Unleaded Gasoline?

Regular unleaded gasoline is the most common type of gas, and it works well for most vehicles on the Freeport roads. It is better for the environment and your health than gasoline containing lead. Its octane rating, which indicates how well it combats inappropriate fuel combustion, is 87.

The Difference Between Premium and Regular Gas

While the two options may seem similar, there are a few factors that set each apart:

• Octane Rating: The higher the octane level, the less chance there is of engine knocking, which can damage your vehicle. Also called pre-ignition, this occurrence is less common with premium gasoline.
• Engine Suitability: Regular unleaded gas burns faster than premium gas, which makes it more suited for engines that have low compression ratios. Engines with high compression ratios will benefit from premium gasoline.
• Price: Premium gas can be as much as 20 to 40 cents more per gallon than regular unleaded gas, which can add up if you are frequently driving through Sterling and Rochelle.

Before deciding whether premium vs. regular gas is right for you, keep the following tips in mind:

• If your car does not require premium gas, it won’t boost the performance or the longevity of the vehicle.
• If your vehicle requires premium gas, using regular gas typically will not harm the vehicle. If you hear knocking when you use regular unleaded gas, it is best to switch to premium gasoline.
• It may be necessary to use premium gas in vehicles that utilize turbochargers.

Learn More With Ken Nelson Auto Group

By understanding the difference between premium and regular gas, you can make an informed decision that maximizes your vehicle’s performance and keeps your budget in check. While premium gas can enhance performance in some engines, regular gas is typically sufficient for most vehicles and is more cost-effective. Refer to your owner’s manual or give our service experts a call at 815-288-4455 to ensure you’re choosing the best option for your car! If you enjoyed this guide, be sure to check out our comparison of AWD vs. 4WD vehicles.