Auto Experts: Does Buying the Cheapest Gas Cost You in the Long Run?
Written by
Jordan Rosenfeld
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Brendan McGinley
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When drivers are standing at the pump looking at the price of gas, most will choose the cheapest fuel unless their car manual explicitly states otherwise. At the same time, many drivers worry that choosing cheap gas can hurt their engine, but experts say the picture is more nuanced.
All gas sold in the U.S. must meet federal standards, meaning cheap fuel won’t instantly damage most engines, according to Shawn Miller, a certified mechanic, automotive technician and founder of ModifiedRides.net. However, according to Joyce Gutierrez, an automotive expert at 4WheelOnline, the long-term effects depend on additives, detergents and how sensitive your vehicle is to build-up or knocking. Cheap gas won’t ruin most engines, but it may contribute to “reduced efficiency and minor performance issues.”
These two experts explain the pros and cons of paying less at the pump.
When Lower Quality Gas Actually Matters
While regular vehicles can tolerate cheaper gas, some engines cannot. High-compression, turbocharged and performance engines require higher octane or higher-quality fuel to operate safely, Miller said. In these engines, using the wrong fuel can cause knocking, timing issues, reduced power or expensive long-term wear. Thus, understanding your vehicle’s octane and additive needs helps you keep it running its best.
Octane Rating vs. Fuel Quality
Drivers tend to assume that as long as they choose the right octane, fuel quality doesn’t matter. However, not all regular gasoline is produced or handled with the same standards, Gutierrez pointed out.
Miller said further that while octane level is what stops the engine from knocking, “fuel quality is about how clean it keeps your engine,” Miller said. So, two stations may both sell 87-octane gas, yet one may include fewer detergents or have a higher chance of contaminants. That difference becomes meaningful over years of driving.
The Long-Term Costs of Cheaper Gas
The biggest hazard of cheap gas is cumulative buildup on engine components, Gutierrez said.
“I’ve had several small turbo cars come in with drivability issues … and the main cause was carboned-up injectors from years of using low-additive gas,” Miller said, explaining that low-detergent fuels can lead to clogged injectors, rough idling, poor acceleration and decreased fuel efficiency.
Drivers might not notice these problems for years, which is why they underestimate the true long-term cost of consistently choosing the lowest-price station.
Seasonal and Regional Gas Differences
Cheaper gas not only varies in quality across states and cities to comply with local air quality regulations, it can be affected by seasonal and regional fuel variations, Gutierrez said.
“During colder months, refineries produce ‘winter-blend’ gasoline … helping engines start reliably even on frigid mornings,” she said.
And in some rural areas, fuel can sit in underground tanks longer, “which isn’t ideal,” Miller said. These differences can influence performance and mileage regardless of price.
How To Save Money and Protect Your Engine
Budget-conscious drivers don’t need to buy premium gas unless required, but they should avoid consistently using the lowest additive options, if possible, Gutierrez suggested.
Top-tier brands strike the best balance between cost and long-term engine protection, Miller said. Both agree that it’s wise to follow your owner’s manual, buy the correct octane and choose stations with reliable detergent packages.
The Difference in Premium or Top-Tier Additives
Both experts say that quality additives matter, especially for modern engines prone to buildup. Additives in premium fuels aren’t just marketing fluff, Gutierrez stressed. “They serve a vital role in maintaining your engine’s health.”
Miller said that these additives keep injectors clean and reduce carbon buildup, which is especially noticeable on turbo and direct-injection engines.
So, paying slightly more for top-tier fuel can pay off in fewer mechanical issues and better long-term performance.
When Paying More for Gas Actually Saves You Money
Of course, there are situations when paying more at the pump is the cheapest long-term option. If your vehicle requires premium fuel, downgrading can cause lost power, lower mileage and even engine damage.
“Investing in quality gas helps ensure smoother operation and fewer unexpected visits to the mechanic,” Miller said.
The Final Answer on Cheaper Gas
Cheap gas won’t destroy most engines, but it can lead to costlier repairs or lower performance over time. The safest approach is to use the correct octane and stick to reputable stations when possible.
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