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

Have you ever wondered about the difference between premium and regular gasoline? If so, the Cornerstone Chevrolet team can help. Check out our available premium vs. regular gasoline comparison to help you better understand the gasoline you’re putting into your vehicle each time you stop. For more information, stop by the Cornerstone Chevrolet service center today!

What is Premium Gasoline?

Though premium gas and regular gas share a number of qualities including that they are both produced from crude oil and both are combustible, they each vary in 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. In fact, most vehicles run best with this type of gasoline. This type of fuel is better for the environment and your health compared to 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 town.

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.
• Check your owner’s manual to find out the recommended gas type.

Contact the Cornerstone Chevrolet Service Center Today

If you have any questions after comparing premium vs. regular gas, do not hesitate to contact us. Our service team is standing by to answer any questions you may have, teach you more service tips and tricks, and even help you figure out which type of gas is best suited for your new vehicle.