The price gap between premium and regular fuel varies by station and date. Multiply the local difference per litre by the litres you buy to estimate the extra cost. Whether premium is needed or recommended depends on your vehicle manufacturer's instructions.
If the manufacturer specifies regular fuel, do not assume a higher-priced grade will repay its extra cost. Follow the vehicle-specific fuel instructions rather than general advertising claims.
Read whether the manual requires or recommends a fuel grade, and whether different instructions apply to towing or other conditions. Ask the manufacturer before using a lower grade than specified.
Do not treat octane, cleaning additives and brand claims as interchangeable. Compare the fuel specifications in your manual and avoid assuming that every brand and grade has an identical formulation.
If you're unsure what your car requires, check the fuel door or the owner's manual. Use the grade specified by the manufacturer and calculate the cost using your own mileage and local pump prices.
Worth It If You...
- Drivers whose vehicle instructions require premium fuel
- Performance car enthusiasts tracking their vehicles on a circuit
Skip It If You...
- Everyone whose manual says "regular unleaded" or "87 octane" — the vast majority of Canadian drivers
- Drivers whose manual permits regular fuel for their use and who do not value any stated performance difference
- Drivers choosing a higher grade solely on an unsupported savings claim
Pros
- +Required for high-compression engines to prevent knocking
- +May provide marginal performance gain in "premium recommended" vehicles
Cons
- −The extra cost depends on your local price gap and how much fuel you use
- −A higher price alone does not establish a fuel-economy or maintenance benefit
- −Performance depends on the vehicle and the specified fuel
- −Check the manual before using a lower grade than recommended
- −Common misconception that premium equals higher quality
The Bottom Line
Follow the grade required by your owner’s manual. Estimate any added cost from the current local price difference and your own fuel use.
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