While low-grade gasoline will keep your car running, many mechanics and drivers recommend you use premium. High-octane gasoline is easier on your engine and a key component of an efficient fuel economy. However, it is also more expensive, which means you need to balance the pros and cons.

The Benefits of Using Premium

According to Philip Reed, Senior Consumer Advice Editor for Edmunds.com, the primary benefit of using premium gasoline is engine health. Your engine will run with fewer knocks and detonations on premium, which increases its lifespan and saves you money on repairs. In addition, high-octane gas will help your car accelerate more quickly. Certain car manufacturers construct engines that need premium gas. Volvo, for instance, sells many cars that run significantly worse on regular gas, according to writer James Fabin of MyRide.com. SUVs and trucks often need premium to carry heavy loads and get the highest possible mileage per gallon. Older vehicles, such as vintage muscle cars, do not have sensors to protect the engine and thus need premium gas to prevent knocks. Most vehicles also need premium to get decent mileage in hilly terrain.

How to Tell if Your Car Needs Premium

Check the owner's manual for advice. According to writer Bill Siuru of NewCarBuyingGuide.com, most owner's manuals will either "recommend" premium or claim that your car "requires" premium. If premium is required, your car will lose mileage and sustain damage with regular gasoline. If premium is merely recommended, you can use regular gasoline without hurting your engine. However, keep in mind that premium is often less expensive in the long run. Since it gives your car better mileage, your car needs less frequent fill ups, which means you spend less on gas over time. According to MyRide.com, your car may save up to a mile per gallon when you make the switch to premium, which more than makes up for its higher price.

Source:

My Ride

New Car Buying Guide

Edmunds