Should I Use Premium or Regular Gas According to My Owner's Manual?
Confused about whether to use premium or regular gas? Here's how to determine the right choice for your vehicle.
Understanding 'Required' vs 'Recommended'
The distinction between 'premium required' and 'premium recommended' is crucial. If your owner's manual states that premium fuel is <b>required</b>, you should use premium gas to avoid potential engine damage or performance issues. On the other hand, if it says premium is <b>recommended</b>, your car can run on regular fuel, but you may experience a slight decrease in power and fuel efficiency.
Check the Owner's Manual
Your owner's manual is the authoritative source for fuel requirements. It will specify whether premium is necessary for optimal performance. If the manual indicates that premium is required, you should follow that guidance, regardless of what the gas cover says. The gas cover might not reflect the specific needs of your engine.
What to Do If There's a Conflict
If there's a conflict between the owner's manual and the gas cover, always prioritize the owner's manual. It's designed to give you the best guidance for your specific vehicle. If you're still uncertain, consult with your dealership or a trusted mechanic for further clarification.
Answered from our EPA fuel data and general, well-established fuel facts in response to real driver questions. Anything car-specific — especially whether premium is required vs recommended — is in your owner's manual, so we point you there instead of guessing.
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EPA/DOE FuelEconomy.gov data retrieved 2026-07-24.