Many drivers believe that filling up with higher octane gas will boost their fuel economy. In reality, octane rating has little to do with miles per gallon. Instead, it measures a fuel’s resistance to engine knock, which is a condition where fuel ignites prematurely in the combustion chamber, causing a knocking or pinging sound and potentially damaging the engine.
What Octane Really Means
Octane ratings (like 87, 89, or 91) represent how well the fuel resists this premature ignition. The higher the number, the more resistant it is to knock. This doesn’t mean it has more energy or burns “cleaner”, it simply means it can withstand higher compression before igniting.
Who Needs Higher Octane?
Higher octane is typically required for:
- High-compression engines often found in performance or luxury vehicles
- Turbocharged or supercharged engines that produce more pressure in the combustion chamber
- Engines designed to run hotter or produce more power
If your vehicle manufacturer calls for premium fuel, it’s because the engine’s design demands it. Using lower octane in these engines can cause knock, reduce performance, and over time, lead to damage.
The Bottom Line
If your car is designed for regular gas, higher octane won’t improve your fuel economy or performance, it’ll just cost you more at the pump. But if your vehicle calls for premium, using it helps keep your engine running smoothly and safely.
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