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Have you ever stood at the gas pump and stared at the different types of gasoline available, wondering which one you should put in your car? Using the correct fuel grade ensures that you get the most out of your vehicle. Here’s a guide to understanding different fuel types, courtesy of your LA Subaru dealer.
Understanding Fuel Types
Fuel grades in the United States are mainly distinguished by their octane ratings, which are prominently displayed at gas stations. The octane rating is a measure of a fuel’s ability to resist “knocking” or “pinging” during combustion. This is caused by the air and fuel mixture preigniting, or detonating prematurely in the engine. The higher the octane rating, the greater the fuel’s resistance to knocking. The most common octane ratings are:
Regular (87 Octane)
Suitable for most vehicles, regular gasoline is just fine for many Subaru models.
Midgrade (89-90 Octane)
Midgrade gasoline is a middle ground between regular and premium.
Premium (91-94 Octane)
Premium gasoline is recommended for high-performance engines.
Which Fuel Grade Does Your Subaru Need?
Non-Performance Subaru Models
For the majority of Subaru models, such as the Crosstrek, Forester, Outback, Legacy, and Ascent, regular 87-octane fuel is perfectly adequate. These vehicles are designed to run efficiently on regular fuel, providing a good balance of performance, fuel economy, and cost savings. Using a higher octane fuel in these models will not enhance performance or efficiency, so it’s best to stick with regular unleaded.
Performance Subaru Models
Subaru’s performance-oriented models, including the WRX, WRX STI, and BRZ, require premium fuel with an octane rating of 91 or higher to perform as intended. These models are equipped with high-compression engines that benefit from the anti-knock properties of premium fuel. While it’s possible to use lower octane fuel in a pinch, doing so may result in reduced performance and could potentially harm the engine over time.
Why the Right Fuel Grade Matters
Using the recommended fuel grade helps prevent engine knocking, which can cause damage over time. Using the correct octane fuel also ensures optimal power and acceleration, especially in Subaru’s performance models. Finally, while it might seem like a good idea to use a higher octane fuel than recommended, it won’t improve your car’s fuel economy if it’s designed to work with regular unleaded, Instead, you’re just paying more for gas.
Fuel Grade FAQs From Your Subaru Dealer
Can Premium Fuel Improve Performance in My Non-Performance Subaru?
No. Using premium fuel in a Subaru designed for regular unleaded gasoline will not improve its performance or fuel economy.
What If I Accidentally Use a Lower-Octane Fuel in My Performance Subaru?
If you inadvertently use a lower octane fuel, your vehicle’s engine management system will adjust to prevent knocking. However, it’s best to refuel with the correct octane rating as soon as possible.
Is It Harmful to Switch Between Regular and Premium Fuel?
For vehicles designed to run on regular fuel, switching to premium occasionally is not harmful, but it is unnecessary. For performance models, consistently using the recommended premium fuel is important to maintain engine performance.
Always refer to your owner’s manual for your vehicle’s specific fuel requirements to harness your engine’s full potential. Call Puente Hills Subaru in City of Industry, CA, to schedule service or ask questions about your vehicle.
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