Premium vs. Regular Gas

When filling up your new Kia with gas in Los Angeles, you know you have multiple options. But what is the difference between regular and premium gas? Our team at Kia of Cerritos will help you learn more about the difference between regular and premium gas to help you make the right choice when filling up on the streets of Carson.

Premium Gas

While the average driver might not understand the advantages of spending more money per gallon for premium gas, there are many vehicles that perform better when filled with premium gasoline and some that even require it. The main difference between premium and regular gas is its octane level, or octane rating. This number indicates how much pressure it takes to properly combust in your engine’s cylinder.

When choosing premium gas for your Carson vehicle, it carries an octane rating over 90. That means it takes more pressure to ignite, and that it burns more completely once ignited. Not only is this recommended for some vehicles, choosing premium gas is essential when driving a high-compression engine or an engine that uses forced induction (turbocharger or supercharger). Because these engines use high pressure, it’s important that the gas is resilient enough to withstand combustion until it’s necessary.

Regular Unleaded Gas

However, you don’t always need to choose premium gas. Regular unleaded gas, the most common type of gas, works perfectly well for the majority of vehicles on the streets of Southgate. Usually coming in at an octane rating of 87, regular gas is perfectly fine for most vehicles unless otherwise specified. Your gas door or fuel filler cap should indicate if your vehicle needs a specific type of fuel.

Difference Between Premium and Regular Gas

The main similarities when comparing premium vs. regular gas are they’re both combustible and made from highly-refined crude oil. However, the difference between premium and regular gas include:

• Price: Premium gas is more expensive, costing 20 to 40 cents more per gallon than regular unleaded gas, which can add up – especially if your vehicle has a large tank or poor gas mileage
• Octane Rating: Pre-ignition, or engine knocking, can be prevented with premium gas due to the higher octane level. This can damage your vehicle’s engine and isn’t as common with premium gasoline, and is why premium gasoline is essential for turbocharged, supercharged, or high-compression engines.
• Engine Suitability: The best gas for your car in Orange County depends on the compression ratio of your engine. Regular unleaded gas is better for low compression ratios whereas engines with high compression ratios will need premium gas due to a slower burn time.

When you have to decide whether premium vs. regular gas is better for your car, keep these tips in mind:

• If your vehicle doesn’t require premium gas, using it won’t improve your vehicle’s performance
• If your vehicle does need premium gas, regular gasoline shouldn’t damage the engine. But, be aware if you hear a knocking sound when you choose regular unleaded gas.
• Does your vehicle use turbochargers? Premium gas may be necessary.

Learn More About Your Vehicle at Kia of Cerritos

Do you have any questions about the difference between regular and premium gas? Don’t hesitate to contact us today! Our service team will be happy to help.