Premium vs. Regular Gas

Pumping Gas

 

When you’re at the gas pump in Vienna, you might wonder, “Just what is the difference between premium and regular gas?” Choosing premium vs. regular gas can be confusing, and one car may have completely different needs than the other. That’s why it’s important to do your research, and Stohlman Volkswagen is here to help! Take a closer look at the difference between premium and regular gas with our in-depth comparison below, then read our other service tips for DIY car care!

What is Regular Gas?

Regular unleaded gas is the most common type of gas you’ll find in Fairfax. Regular gas is also easily used by most vehicles, and it’s much better for your health and the environment than the leaded gasoline of the past. This gas type typically has an octane level of 87.

What is Premium Gasoline?

So, why pay more for premium gasoline in Alexandria? Some vehicles need premium gas in order to get the best performance possible. That’s because premium gasoline has a much higher octane level of 90 or above to help prevent “engine knocking”. Not only does this premium formula burn cleaner, but it also produces less pollution. Your vehicle’s owners manual will tell you if your car needs premium gas or not. 

Pros and Cons

Premium gasoline is typically used on high performance cars or trucks. While you can use it in your commuter vehicle, you most likely won’t notice a difference in its performance. If you’re unsure of which type of gas your vehicle needs, your owner’s manual will tell you. Read the pros and cons of premium and regular gas below:

  • Price: Compared to regular gas, premium can add 20 to 40 cents per gallon – which can really add up during those long commutes!
  • Octane Rating: The higher the octane level, the lower the chance of pre-ignition or “engine knocks”. Since engine knocks can cause damage, premium may be worth the extra expense for some vehicles.
  • Engine Type: If your engine has a low compression ratio, regular gas will burn faster than premium. Engines with high compression ratios benefit even more from the slower burn time of premium, so be sure to check your owner’s manual or contact our service department to see what you need!

Find Out More with Stohlman Volkswagen

Not sure whether you need premium vs. regular gasoline? Feel free to contact us at Stohlman Volkswagen for more information about car care in Tysons Corner. Not only can we answer all of your questions about the difference between premium and regular gas, but we can also help you with all of your maintenance and repair needs at our service department. You can even schedule your next service appointment online!

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8433 Leesburg Pike, Tysons Corner, VA, 22182
Stohlman Volkswagen 38.9243816, -77.2382036.