When we talk of fuel, the first thing that might come to mind is gasoline. Yes, gasoline is identically associated with fuel, and each fuel has different functions based on the engine. You can check with your Broomfield auto mechanic if you are still a new driver and not sure what gasoline should be used.
But first, let us get to know what is octane
Octane ratings are measures of fuel stability and these ratings are based on the pressure at which a fuel will spontaneously combust or auto-ignite in a testing engine. The octane number is actually the simple average of two different octane rating methods – the motos octane rating (MOR) and research octane rating (RON). They differ primarily in the specifics of the operating conditions. The higher the octane number, the more stable the fuel.
Car manufacturers and mechanics like auto mechanic Broomfield Co have been requiring or recommend premium gas, a high-octane grade of fuel for use for some vehicle models. The difference in prices between premium and lower octane is around 20-25 percent and what those octane rating numbers on gas pumps mean.
Retail gasoline stations in the US sell three main grades of gasoline based on the octane level:
- Regular – it is the lowest octane fuel, generally 87 octane, with an average of 85-88. This type of gasoline is your usual go-to option. It is also what many car manufacturers recommend and Broomfield auto mechanics. The 87 octane makes your car run efficiently although it may not offer the best performance components that higher octane gasoline has to offer. But certain car makes and models require higher octane gas while many cars do not. If you are on a budget, you should know that regular gas is the least expensive of the bunch and will help you achieve your main goal of getting from point a to point B.
- Midgrade – the middle range octane fuel, generally 89-90 octane. Certain cars are designed to run higher octane gasoline and some manufacturers may recommend this. This octane level offers higher performance than the 87 octane, but does not go as far as the 92 octane.
- Premium – the highest octane fuel, generally 91-94. For high-performance vehicles with engines that have high compression ratios or turbocharges, premium gas is usually best and will often be recommended by the manufacturer. Premium gas helps improve fuel efficiency and offers optimal performance.
When comparing premium gas versus regular gas, know that less than 20 percent of new cars require premium gas. Sports cars and luxury car vehicles are a few types of cars that perform better on premium gas.
When the time comes to fill up your tank with gasoline, it is important that you know how to choose the right octane level. Check your car’s manual to see what type of gas is required for your vehicle or look at the back of the fuel door to see if the recommended octane is listed there. If you have other questions such as what is the best engine cleaner or what is ethanol-free gas, always be sure to ask auto mechanic broomfield Co as they are sure to properly explain these topics for you.
