The Truth about High-Octane Gas
Is High-Octane Gas Really Any Better For Your Car?
If you own a car you are probably wondering whether or not you really need to buy high-octane gas. Cars definitely don’t come cheap, so it’s important to properly care for your vehicle so it will run smoothly and will last for quite a while. But is high-octane gas really necessary for the proper maintenance of your car? The answer may surprise you.
Does More Mean Better?
Many consumers automatically assume that they should use the most expensive gasoline because it will make their vehicles perform better. High-octane gas can cost an additional twenty cents per gallon, and sometimes consumers doubt whether or not they really need to pay for the more expensive, high-octane gas. Believe it or not, in most cases you really don’t need to buy high-octane gas.
The Exception, Not The Rule
There percentage of cars that require or benefit from high-octane gas is relatively small and these cars have engines that are specifically designed to benefit from higher-octane gasoline. Keep in mind that just because a gasoline is labeled “high-octane” and costs more does not necessarily mean it is better for your car. Buying high-octane gas is not going to give you better gas mileage which is a common misconception and if your car wasn’t made to operate on high-octane gasoline, there’s really no reason for you to fork over the extra cash for it.
Read The Book
If you are unsure whether or not you should buy high-octane gas for your car, you should consult your vehicle’s manual that you received when you purchased the car. Your owner’s manual should clearly indicate what type of gasoline is recommended for your vehicle and you should probably stick with whatever gasoline is suggested. There is no need to buy a higher-octane gas than what your manufacturer recommends.
Sometimes It Matters
There are instances where a higher-octane gas will be better for your car -- such is the case with older engines. For older engines, high-octane gasoline is usually not required but can make your car run more smoothly. For newer cars, your best bet is to follow the manufacturer’s recommendation.
Hopefully, the above advice provided you with some important information about high-octane gas. Consult your owner’s manual to make sure you have been buying the right gasoline for your car. Next, time at the pump make sure you only buy high-octane gas if that is what your vehicle manufacturer recommends.