If you’ve ever hesitated at the pump, wondering whether that more expensive premium gas is worth it—you’re not alone. Many drivers assume higher-octane fuel is better, but that’s not always the case. In this guide, you’ll learn the key differences between premium and regular fuel, when premium is actually required, and how to fuel smarter using rewards and cashback strategies.
What’s the Difference Between Regular and Premium Gas?
The main difference comes down to octane rating, which measures a fuel’s ability to resist engine knock. Higher octane = more resistance to premature combustion.
- Regular fuel has an octane rating of 87
- Mid-grade typically sits at 89
- Premium fuel ranges from 91 to 94
Premium fuel isn’t “cleaner” or more powerful—it’s simply designed for high-compression engines that need it. Most vehicles on the road are engineered to run just fine on regular fuel.
Does Your Car Need Premium Gas?
Check the fuel door or your owner’s manual:
- Premium required: You must use premium to avoid knocking, reduced performance, and long-term engine damage.
- Premium recommended: You can use regular fuel. You might see a small dip in performance or fuel efficiency, but the savings often outweigh it.
- Regular acceptable: Stick with 87 octane. Using premium provides no real benefit.
What Happens If You Use the Wrong Fuel?
- Premium in a regular vehicle: Safe, but expensive and unnecessary.
- Regular in a premium-required vehicle: Risky. Can cause engine knock and long-term damage.
- Regular in a premium-recommended vehicle: Usually fine, but monitor your vehicle’s performance.
How to Save Money—No Matter Which Fuel You Use
Regardless of whether you choose regular or premium, how you pay can dramatically impact your overall fuel cost. Many drivers now use loyalty programs and digital gift cards to stack savings.
Loyalty programs to join include:
For added savings, use Fluz to earn cashback with a Shell virtual card, get rewards with a BP virtual card, or earn cashback with a Chevron virtual card. With Fluz, you buy the gift card for the exact amount due right before you pay—earning instant cashback while still using your preferred fuel rewards.
Tips for Smarter Fueling
- Use the correct fuel based on your car’s requirements—not assumptions.
- Fuel up earlier in the week, when prices tend to be lower (GasBuddy).
- Combine loyalty and cashback—pair your rewards ID with a digital gift card purchase to stack discounts.
- Monitor MPG with apps like Fuelly to understand how your car performs on different fuel types.
Conclusion
Premium fuel isn’t always better—it’s just different. If your car doesn’t require it, regular unleaded is not only safe but much more cost-effective. And whether you’re using regular or premium, you can still fuel smarter by combining station rewards with digital gift cards. To start earning with every gallon, download Fluz and fuel up with more value.
