87 Octane Gas – Don’t Knock It Until You’ve Tried It
Gas prices have been hitting record highs, and we’re all looking for ways to save at the pump. One simple change could be switching to 87 octane gas—if your car manufacturer approves it. At First Class Auto Sales, we know every penny counts, so let’s dive into how you can cut fuel costs without sacrificing performance.
What Do Octane Ratings Mean?
Octane ratings measure a fuel’s resistance to knocking or pinging during combustion. In simpler terms, higher octane fuels like 93 are more resistant to pre-ignition. However, with today’s modern fuel-injection systems, most vehicles are designed to run perfectly fine on 87 octane gas.
Does 87 Octane Gas Work as Well as 93?
According to a 2019 Car and Driver article, a test comparing 87 and 93 octane fuel across four vehicles—
2019 Honda CR-V
2019 BMW M5 Competition
2019 Ford F-150
2019 Dodge Charger R/T
—found that unless your car specifically requires premium fuel, you likely won’t notice a difference in performance or fuel economy. Their conclusion?
"If you buy fuel with an octane rating above the manufacturer's requirement, you're likely to feel it in your wallet more than in your driving experience."
What Causes Engine Knock?
Detonation knock occurs when the air-fuel mixture in your engine’s cylinders doesn’t ignite properly, leading to a rattling or pounding noise. Common causes include:
Fortunately, most modern cars are built to handle 87 octane fuel without issues, saving you money at the pump.
Are You Driving a Gas Guzzler?
With gas prices higher than ever, a fuel-efficient vehicle can make a big difference in your wallet. If your current car feels more like a gas guzzler than a reliable ride, now might be the perfect time to trade up.
Why Upgrade at First Class Auto Sales?
Fuel-Efficient Inventory: From hybrids to compact cars, we offer a wide range of vehicles designed to go further on every gallon.
Flexible Financing Options: With buy here pay here financing and bad credit car loans, upgrading to a more efficient car has never been easier.
Expert Guidance: Our team is here to help you find the perfect car that fits your lifestyle and budget.
Drive Smarter and Save More
Don’t let gas prices keep you off the road. Visit First Class Auto Sales in Goodlettsville, TN, or browse our inventory online at FirstClassAutoSales.com to find a reliable, fuel-efficient car that saves you money at every fill-up.