May 12, 2011

All those price options at the gas pump can be confusing. Gas is gas, right?  Why pay significantly more for “high test” when your car will run on the cheap stuff?

It comes down to quality and octane. A gallon of gas contains a certain amount of energy; higher quality gas provides more miles per gallon. Octane is a measurement of how much pressure gas can handle before exploding. A can running on low-octane fuel can cause gas to explode before the spark plugs fire, causing engine damage, hurting efficiency, and costing you money.

While filling up with “high test” might hurt your wallet now, it can make your life easier in the long run. Consult your owner’s manual or dealer mechanic to determine the best gas for your car. And if you find yourself getting excellent mileage, keep going back to your last gas station. Their clean, high-octane gas is keeping your car healthy.