Premium petrol is always best right? Wrong!

Tired of paying too much for petrol? Did you know by choosing the correct type of fuel for your car you can save money and possibly extend the life of your car?

Petrol is graded using the Research Octane Number or RON such as 91, 95, 98, 100 or even 103. The RON number ranks the fuels resistance to ‘pre-ignition' or firing before it should due to heat from the engine.

A higher number doesn't mean better quality - the grade is in reference to how much heat and pressure the fuel can resist before it detonates. Higher grades can withstand higher heat and pressure than lower grades.

Petrol engines work by compressing a mixture of fuel and air and igniting it with a spark plug to generate power. If the ignition happens before the spark plug fires it creates a condition called “knock,” which can damage a motor and reduce power.

Knocking is the sound made as the mix of fuel and air is detonating too early rather than burning smoothly for fuel - which means you aren't getting the very best from your car..

To see the best fuel for your car, read your car's manual or check the label on the inside of the fuel filler door. Usually high octane fuels are required by cars with performance engines or that are turbocharged.

Remember, putting premium petrol in a car that doesn't actually need it doesn't mean you car will run better or faster, it will just drain your bank account that much faster!

If you have more questions about your petrol intake or just want to check your cars fuel efficiency, have a chat with our specialist mechanics today, or book online!