Wondering if there’s a difference between premium and regular gas for your car, truck, or SUV? Premium gas isn’t inherently better, but certain vehicles do require premium to perform their best. So what’s the difference between premium vs. regular gas? The answer is their octane rating! Premium fuel has a higher octane rating, and will combust at a higher temperature and pressure than regular gas. In the guide below from Mandal Buick GMC near Biloxi, learn the difference between premium and regular gas, and how to know which type you should be filling up with.
Any gasoline you purchase is rated as regular, premium, or ultra-premium depending on octane level:
Due to its higher combustion temperature and pressure requirement, premium fuel delays engine combustion longer, reducing the likeness of premature combustion. Early combustion is known as “engine knock” because of the knocking noise that accompanies it. A small amount of engine knock is possible , but excessive and chronic knocking can damage the engine.
Premium gas used to be an important way to reduce engine knock, but it’s less crucial now that most new cars come with technology to predict and prevent premature engine combustion. So there’s very little difference between premium and regular gas when it comes to preventing engine knock, and regular gasoline is unlikely to harm a vehicle that comes with a premium gasoline recommendation. Still, there are other reasons that some drivers may choose to fill up with premium gas:
Looking for expert car-care tips? Contact the service center at Mandal Buick GMC near Gulfport and Ocean Springs to speak with a technician or schedule service for your vehicle today.
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