There was time when people filled up at the pump and only two choices existed: leaded or unleaded. There was, of course, diesel, but that was often on a separate pump used by truck drivers or people who owned a specific, smoke-belching European car. Today, however, people have at least four if not five choices, with three of them ranging from basic unleaded to premium, and a related cost range to match. So, no surprise, drivers eventually find themselves asking the question, is there something better with a premium fuel versus the regular one? In some cases, particularly with blends. Some brands make a point to include detergents and solvents designed to break down gunk in an older engine.

Generally, however, the big difference between premium and general unleaded fuel is the octane. Normal engines easily run with an octane level of 87. Some believe that higher performance engines need or run better with a higher octane. While it is true that a higher temperature is needed to burn a higher octane cleanly, that doesn’t automatically produce better engine performance. However, it does burn with less gunk. The fact is not burning all fuel completely leaves a residue, and that creates buildup. More buildup eventually makes a car engine run worse and have problems. So a hotter, cleaner burn is an advantage over the long-term. And, again, many quality brands include their detergents in premium fuel, which only helps keep the engine running smoother over its life.

Cross Creek Insurance provides consumer insurance serving the Hope Hills, NC, area. And one of the best ways of saving insurance for when it really matters is following preventive care for one’s car. Premium gas isn’t necessary to run a car, but it does make a difference that could matter in the long run.