When you pull up to the pump, you’re often met with choices: regular, mid-grade, or premium. While premium gas is more expensive, it isn’t always clear whether it’s worth the extra cost. Some drivers choose premium thinking it’s better for their car, but for most vehicles, that’s simply not the case.

Here’s a breakdown of what separates regular from premium fuel—and when it actually matters.

Octane Ratings Explained

The main difference between regular and premium gasoline is the octane rating, which measures a fuel’s ability to resist knocking (also known as engine pinging or pre-detonation).

• Regular gas typically has an octane rating of 87
  
• Mid-grade usually falls between 88 and 89
  
• Premium ranges from 91 to 93
  

Higher-octane fuel can withstand more compression before igniting, which is useful for high-performance or turbocharged engines.

When You Should Use Premium Gas

• If your vehicle requires premium fuel (check your owner’s manual), using a lower octane rating could damage the engine or reduce efficiency.
  
• Luxury cars, performance vehicles, and turbocharged engines often need high-octane fuel for optimal combustion.
  

When Regular Gas Is Just Fine

Most vehicles on the road are designed to run perfectly on regular 87-octane gas. If your car’s manufacturer recommends premium—but doesn’t require it—you can safely use regular fuel. 

Premium Fuel Myths Debunked

• Myth: Premium fuel cleans your engine better.
  False. All gasoline sold in the U.S. must meet EPA minimum standards for detergents. Some brands offer “Top Tier” gas with extra cleaning agents, but this is independent of octane level.
  More on Top Tier Gas
• Myth: Premium gas gives you more miles per gallon.
  False—unless your car is designed for it. In vehicles built for regular gas, mileage gains are negligible.
  
• Myth: Higher price = better performance.
  Not true for most vehicles. You’re paying more for resistance to knock, not horsepower or efficiency.
  

How to Find the Right Fuel for Your Car

Always check your car’s fuel requirement label, usually located inside the gas door or in your owner’s manual. If it says “premium required,” use premium. If it says “premium recommended,” regular is typically safe, though premium may offer a slight performance boost.

How to Save No Matter What Fuel You Use

Regardless of fuel grade, smart spending helps cut costs:

• Use a gas rewards program like Exxon Mobil Rewards+ or Shell Fuel Rewards
• Pay with cashback tools like Fluz, which lets you earn cashback at the pump by using gift cards or a virtual card without preloading
  
• Track local fuel prices with GasBuddy to avoid overpaying
  

Final Thoughts

Unless your car specifically requires premium fuel, regular gas is not only sufficient—it’s often the smarter financial choice. Skip the upsell at the pump and focus on ways to save through efficient driving, loyalty programs, and cashback apps.