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Premium Fuels: Are They Worth It?
Despite the continuous price increases, fuel producers continue to encourage drivers to opt for more expensive alternatives – so-called premium fuels, which are characterized by higher octane or cetane numbers. In today’s article, we aim to answer whether it’s worth filling up with higher-grade fuels, and if so, in what situations it is particularly advisable. We invite you to read on – TEC 2000 team.
What Is Premium Fuel?
How can you identify premium fuel at a gas station? The easiest way is by the name, with each company offering its own brand: V-Power (Shell), Verva (Orlen), Dynamic (Lotos), Ultimate (BP). These fuels differ from their “standard” counterparts by containing less sulfur, having a higher octane or cetane number, and including additives that provide benefits such as corrosion protection in the tank. Higher-quality, refined fuel – at least in theory and according to the manufacturers – should result in more efficient fuel combustion, reducing the formation and accumulation of carbon deposits, and improving performance. Furthermore, fuel companies claim that enhanced fuels offer better protection for the engine, thereby extending its lifespan.
Is It Worth Filling Up with Premium Fuel?
Now let’s get to the heart of the article and answer the question: does paying extra for premium gasoline or diesel actually bring real benefits to drivers? The best way to approach this topic is by looking at several aspects: reduced fuel consumption, increased vehicle power, extended engine life, and environmental concerns – all of which are how premium fuel is marketed. But what’s the reality?
Filling Up with Premium Fuel and Its Impact on Consumption
Let’s start with the economic aspect, i.e., lower fuel consumption. According to numerous tests, including those conducted by ADAC (Allgemeiner Deutscher Automobil-Club), opting for premium fuel can reduce fuel consumption by 1 to 5%, although in some cars, this effect may not be achievable – for instance, in vehicles not equipped with a knock sensor.
Rarely does the promised 5% fuel consumption reduction materialize – typically, it decreases by about 1%. At this point, it's important to ask whether such a result brings real savings – keep in mind that premium fuels generally cost 20-30 groszy more per liter.
What About Increased Engine Power?
According to estimates, better fuel should provide a slight increase in performance. However, in practice, this is almost imperceptible during everyday driving. This is because the engine, especially when driving in the city, doesn’t reach high enough RPMs to feel the increased power.
On the flip side, using lower-quality fuels can lead to reduced power due to the absence of cleaning additives. When carbon deposits and other contaminants build up in the system, it can, for instance, lead to piston rings getting stuck. In such cases, filling up with premium fuel can help restore power, although it’s worth noting that this change might cause carbon deposits to break off, potentially exacerbating the problem and leading to more serious engine issues.
Therefore, it’s crucial to keep the engine in good condition and regularly flush it with a high-quality engine cleaner.
TEC 2000 Engine Flush – a professional engine cleaner that removes carbon deposits, soot, and other build-ups from piston rings, oil galleries, and valve lifters. Regular use ensures increased compression, keeps the system clean, neutralizes acids in the oil, reduces emissions, and improves engine performance.
Extended Engine Lifespan – Empty Promise or Real Benefit?
This aspect was touched on earlier. Premium fuels contain additives with good cleaning and lubricating properties, which should positively impact engine condition and extend its lifespan. However, it’s important to add that this effect is only achieved with regular and long-term use of premium fuel.
A single tank of premium fuel won’t protect the engine and might even cause harm, as previously mentioned – the additives can flush out large amounts of contaminants, which could mix with the oil in the sump. This situation may reduce piston ring sealing, leading to a drop in power.
Less Sulfur – A Nod to the Environment
The reduced sulfur content in premium fuels mainly benefits the planet. From an ecological standpoint, lower sulfur content helps reduce the emission of harmful, toxic chemicals into the atmosphere. It’s also worth mentioning that sulfur doesn’t affect engine performance, but its combustion product, sulfuric acid, increases the risk of internal engine corrosion.
See also: How to Improve the Effects of Poor Lubricity in Diesel Fuel?
When to Opt for Premium Fuel?
Filling up with premium fuel won’t result in significant reductions in consumption or noticeable power increases during regular, everyday driving. On the other hand, regularly using premium fuel can positively impact engine smoothness, lifespan, and the environment. Premium fuel might be a good choice for owners of newer vehicles or those who have tuned their cars – in such cases, the power boost will be noticeable. While premium fuel can be beneficial for engine health, it’s worth noting that the market offers chemical additives that mitigate the effects of poor fuel quality and lubricity. A good example is TEC 2000 Diesel System Cleaner and TEC 2000 Fuel System Cleaner, which have water-binding properties that effectively remove moisture from the fuel tank. Regular use of these products extends injector life and positively impacts engine power. These products are particularly suitable for older car owners, who, in turn, are not advised to use premium fuels.
Alex Wheeler
Automotive Copywriter