Premium versus Regular

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May 20, 2006 | 12:02 PM

out and about

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Premium versus Regular

I've always used regular on my 2002 2.3 5speed. Can I expect better gas mileage, performance if i switch to premium?

May 20, 2006 | 12:39 PM

RangerPilot

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Joined: Jul 2005

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From: Durant, OK (SOSU)

Doubtfully. The engine is timed and set to run on regular octane, keep running that in it. Definetly not enough of a MPG increase to offset the cost.

RP
Zach

May 20, 2006 | 02:00 PM

jman724

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My experience with running higher octane in an engine designed for regular is at best a slight gain in performance and 2 extra mpg. Many engines will see no difference at all or even decreased performance. For 15-20 cents more a gallon it isn't worth it. Worst case scenario, extended use of wrong octane can possibly result in engine damage.

May 20, 2006 | 03:01 PM

PW01

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Your engine is designed to run on 87 octane. Running premium is a wast of money at best, and could cause carbon deposits because the fuel will not be burned efficiently.

May 20, 2006 | 04:08 PM

john112deere

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From: Maine

The octane rating is a measure of how difficult the gas is to ignite. A high performance engine with high compression may require higher octane gas to prevent preignition, as may an engine that has carbon buildup, causing a "ping."

Putting premium in your truck is just throwing money away, IMO.

May 20, 2006 | 07:40 PM

JD717

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From: Hudson Florida.

Unless you're running high compression, or have an otherwise HIGH performance motor, just stick to regular octane. I dont seen a reason to buy premium gas for a vehicle that runs best on regular.