Think You Are Being Clever By Saving On Off Brand Gas? You Are Probably Doing More Harm Than Good

The automotive group found significant differences in the quality of gasoline sold at fuel retailers in recent testing.

The off-brand gasolines can cause "19 times more engine deposits" than recognizable brands, which have more detergent in their mix. The problem can occur after just 4,000 miles of simulated driving.

"Such carbon deposits are known to reduce fuel economy, increase emissions and negatively impact vehicle performance, particularly on newer vehicles," said AAA.

MDarringer - 7/8/2016 3:28:46 PM

0 Boost

The flip side of this is people who will go to Shell--let's say--and put premium instead of regular gas into their base Camrys etc.

monster - 7/9/2016 11:28:36 AM

+4 Boost

Sponsored and paid by Brand name gas company.

MDarringer - 7/9/2016 11:56:49 AM

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There are some differences however. Off-brand gas almost always is "cut" with ethanol. In theory, modern cars can "handle" 10%. The bottom line is paying attention to how your car is performing and to follow the manufacturer's recommendations. If it calls for premium use it. Otherwise, regular is fine.

iamdabest1 - 7/10/2016 8:56:41 AM

+2 Boost

cant stand when cheap people buy/lease mercedes, bmw, lexus and have the nerve to even ask " you think its ok to put in 87 octane" seriously, go get a god damn camry.

MDarringer - 7/10/2016 10:48:11 AM

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Again, it comes down to what the manufacturer says the car was designed to run on. If the car calls for premium and the owner puts in regular, the engine management system dials back accordingly in most cases. This is OK in a pinch but not as a regular thing. However, if the vehicle is designed for regular, putting premium in will net no performance advantage.

LexSucks - 7/11/2016 2:53:25 PM

+1 Boost

Mind trick desinged to get you to buy their gas.