Premium vs. Regular Gas – Which Should You Use?

Gas pumps in a row

 

Every time you visit a gas pump, you’re presented with a choice. Should you buy regular or premium? What’s the difference between premium and regular gas? If you’re having your own internal premium vs. regular gas debate, we’re here to help. The service department at Mercedes-Benz of Charleston wants to help you keep your car running on our Charleston roads for years to come. So, let’s talk about what kind of gas you should be using.

 

 

What’s the Difference Between Premium and Regular Gas?

The difference between premium and regular gas is how fast these types of gasoline burn. The higher the octane rating, the slower the fuel burns. The slower burning rate of premium is designed to prevent the car’s engine from knocking by regulating the timing of when the pistons fire. Does that mean premium is therefore the right choice for your car? No, it’s a little more complicated than that. We explain below how to know whether you should use premium or regular gas. In the meantime, here are some of the main differences between premium and regular gas:

  • Octane: Regular gas has an octane rating of 87, while premium has an octane of 92. This accounts for the slower burn.
  • Price: Beckley gas stations can charge as much as 60 cents per gallon more for premium than regular.

Premium vs. Regular Gas – Which is Right for Your Car?

The best way to resolve your premium vs. regular gas decision is simply to find out what the manufacturer recommends. You can do this by looking in your owner’s manual or on the inside of the fuel door. If the manufacturer says to use premium gas, use it by all means. If your car does not require premium gas, using it would be a waste of money, at best. Using premium gas in an engine not designed for it will not be more effective at preventing knocking, nor will it extend the life of your car as you drive it along our Huntington roads.

Mercedes-Benz of Charleston is Here to Help

We hope we’ve helped you solve your premium vs. regular gas conundrum. If so, you might want to check out our other tips and tricks. And, if you need help with any other automotive needs, feel free to schedule an appointment with our service center. We’re here to help! Our dealership is just down the road from Bridgeport, so drop by or contact us today!

 

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