The Type Of Gas You Use Really *Does* Matter

I’ve always believed that gas was gas. I thought it was all the same stuff and that any rumors to the contrary were nothing but marketing. Well, it turns out that isn’t the case.

Six of the world’s top automakers, BMW, General Motors, Honda, Toyota, Volkswagen and Audi recognize that the current EPA minimum detergent requirements do not go far enough to ensure optimal engine performance. Since the minimum additive performance standards were first established by EPA in 1995, most gasoline marketers have actually reduced the concentration level of detergent additive in their gasoline by up to 50%. As a result, the ability of a vehicle to maintain stringent Tier 2 emission standards have been hampered, leading to engine deposits which can have a big impact on in-use emissions and driver satisfaction.

This is from the top tier website, and it’s not just a marketing ploy by some additive company. It is a real standard that has been embraced by the automakers listed. Of course I was still skeptical and decided to try a couple of tanks of Chevron’s 93 octane in my 335i.

Wow. There is a noticeable difference in my performance. My car seriously feels better all around — both in casual driving and when I accelerate aggressively. I’m genuinely and pleasantly surprised.

So yes, I suggest that if you are into cars and you’ve always thought the gas doesn’t matter, try doing a couple of tanks of premium through one of the following companies who supports the top tier standard. I think you’ll be pleased with the results. QuikTrip Chevron Conoco Phillips 76 Shell Entec Stations MFA Oil Company Kwik Trip/Kwik Star The Somerset Refinery, Inc. Chevron-Canada Aloha Petroleum Tri-Par Oil Company Shell-Canada Texaco Petro-Canada Sunoco-Canada