87, 89, 92…What Do They Mean?
Ever wonder what the difference is in grades of gas at the pump? You’re not alone.
Many people fill up each day without ever knowing what they’re buying—or if they even need it.
Here are the basics:
- Regular gas has an octane rating of 87, midgrade is 89, and premium is 91 or 92.
- A higher octane rating indicates that grade of gasoline burns slower, causing fewer knocks and pings in the engine.
- The majority of cars on the road have engines designed to burn regular-grade gasoline.
- Midgrade and premium gasoline are often used in high-performance vehicles that require more power.
The bottom line is your owner’s manual will tell you what kind of gas to use. Putting high-octane gasoline in a car built to use regular only burns your money faster. If you need high-octane gas, the manual will say so.
Published 01/30/09
