Premium Gas May Be a Waste of Money, Warns Orange County Based Get My Auto
Orange County, CA, October 25, 2016 (Newswire.com) - Filling up at a gas station always provides motorists with a few basic option—such as the choice between regular and “premium” gasoline. This higher-priced fuel is often thought to provide better performance, lower emissions, or improved fuel economy—but according to new research from AAA, this isn’t necessarily the case. In fact, AAA’s research confirms that, for most drivers, using premium gas is simply a waste of money. In a new statement to the press, automotive blog Get My Auto offers commentary on using premium gas.
“The old saying tells us that you get what you pay for—but when it comes to gasoline, that’s not necessarily the case,” says Get My Auto. “For the majority of drivers, spending additional money on premium fuel offers no added value or benefit.”
According to AAA, some 16 million Americans buy premium fuel for cars that don’t actually need it—leading to a waste of some $2.1 billion each year. Some vehicles do require the premium grade of gas, and it’s always going to be noted in the owner’s manual. For all other vehicles, though, using premium gas offers no enhancement to horsepower, fuel efficiency, or general performance. It does not reduce polluting emissions, either.
"Through some very specific tests following EPA guidelines ... we were able to very scientifically quantify the difference — or in this case, the lack of difference — in both performance, emissions and fuel economy as a result of placing premium in a vehicle that is only calling for regular fuel,” comments AAA’s Greg Brannon.
This begs the question: If premium gas doesn’t typically offer any benefit, why do so many drivers pay more for it? “The answer likely comes down to marketing,” says Get My Auto. “Something that’s called premium just sounds better—plain and simple.”
Using premium fuel for a car that does not require it will not actually do any harm to the vehicle—though it does to harm to the driver’s bank account.
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Get My Auto of Orange County is a collection of educational websites and social media channels with aim of educating consumers about their used vehicle choices. Content on the site includes automotive reviews, cost data, and general tips about seeking out and purchasing used vehicles. More information can be found on the Web at www.getmyauto.com. Get My Auto is headquartered in Orange County, California.
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Source: Get My Auto