At RidewithChuck, we believe fueling your car should be as intentional as accessorizing your cabin. Whether you drive a luxury coupe or a utility SUV, the type of gas you choose affects performance, efficiency, and long-term engine health. Let’s break down the basics — and share a cautionary tale that might sound familiar.
🔍 What Is Octane — and Why It Matters
Gasoline is sold in different grades based on its octane rating. Octane measures how well fuel resists engine knock — that pinging sound caused by premature combustion. The higher the octane, the more resistant the fuel is to knocking.
Most gas stations offer three options:
• Regular (87 octane): Standard for most vehicles. Affordable and efficient.
• Midgrade (89 octane): Slightly higher resistance to knocking. Sometimes recommended for turbocharged engines.
• Premium (91–93 octane): High resistance to knocking. Required for high-performance or luxury engines.
Here’s the truth: higher octane doesn’t mean “better” gas. If your car doesn’t require premium, using it won’t boost performance or fuel economy. But if your car does need it — skipping it can cause real problems.
🚗 Which Cars Actually Need Premium?
Some engines are built to run hotter and compress fuel more aggressively. These include performance cars, luxury sedans, and turbocharged SUVs. If your owner’s manual says “premium fuel required,” using regular gas can lead to engine knock, reduced horsepower, and long-term damage.
If it says “premium recommended,” you can technically use regular — but you may notice sluggish acceleration, lower fuel efficiency, and a rougher ride.
🧪 RideWithChuck Fueling Tips
• Always check your owner’s manual before choosing a fuel grade
• Don’t pay extra for premium unless it’s required
• Stick to one consistent octane level — mixing grades can confuse your engine
• Use top-tier gas stations to keep your fuel system clean
• Consider your driving conditions — towing, heat, or altitude may affect fuel needs
🚦 Jason’s Story: When Regular Wasn’t Enough
Jason drives a sporty crossover with a turbocharged engine. For years, he filled up with regular gas to save money. It worked — until it didn’t.
His acceleration got sluggish. The engine started pinging on hills. His fuel economy dropped. Eventually, his mechanic gave it to him straight: “You’ve been underfeeding a high-performance engine.”
Jason switched to premium. The difference was immediate. His engine ran smoother. The power came back. But deep down, he knew the damage had already started. He’d need a more permanent fix — maybe a tune-up, maybe more.
Now, he fuels smart. And with RideWithChuck accessories in his cabin — from custom seat cushions to scent diffusers that smell like fresh pine and redemption — his ride feels better than ever. Not just because of what’s under the hood, but because of how he’s chosen to care for it.
🧠 Final Thought
Fuel isn’t just a number on a pump — it’s a decision that affects your engine, your wallet, and your peace of mind. Whether you drive a luxury coupe or a utility SUV, knowing your octane needs helps you protect your investment and drive with confidence.
Ride smart. Fuel right.
And let RidewithChuck elevate every mile — inside and out.
