It’s a question many Chicago drivers ask at the pump. The short answer is yes, you can use premium more often than not, but whether you should is another story. If you're wondering if you can put regular gas in a premium gas car, there's important information to know before making that choice. Let’s break it down.

Premium Gas Vs. Regular Gas: What’s The Difference? 

The biggest difference between regular gas and premium gas is the octane rating. Regular gas usually has an octane rating of “87,” while premium gas has a higher octane rating, usually between “91” and “94.” Why does the octane rating matter? The higher the octane rating, the safer the gas is for performance vehicles. For this reason, premium gas usually costs more than regular gas. 

With performance vehicles, the engines’ pistons work at a higher rate than in standard vehicles. The firing of these pistons is also known as “knocking,” and too much knocking can damage the engine. That's why it's important to use gas with a higher octane rating on performance vehicles. 

Can You Put Regular Gas In A Premium Gas Car? 

It's not recommended to put regular gas in a premium car. This is due to the high level of piston knocking mentioned earlier. Putting regular gas in a premium gas car won't cause any damage right away. Even if it’s just a few times here and there, you should be fine to drive it around West Lafayette. However, you want to be careful not to intentionally put regular gas in a premium gas car, since premium gas cars need gas with a high enough octane rating to protect the engine. 

Can You Put Premium Gas In A Regular Gas Car?

You can put premium gas in a regular car, but it doesn’t enhance the performance capabilities of a regular car. Since the engine doesn’t have the properties of a high-performance premium car, it won’t be able to take advantage of premium gas. Ultimately, the best practice is to put the right kind of gas in your car every time you stop at a gas station around Frankfort. If you’re not sure what kind of gas your car needs, check your owner’s manual.

Schedule Service At Audi Lafayette

Are you looking for expert advice on fuel choices specific to your Audi model? At Audi Lafayette, we’ll help you make the right decision to keep your ride smooth and efficient. Schedule a service appointment to ensure your engine’s longevity and performance. If you have any questions or want to learn more, reach out to us. We are here to assist you.