What is the BEST Fuel to Use in Your Car or Truck and WHY

About this video

• Video Title: What is the BEST Fuel to Use in Your Car or Truck and WHY
• Channel: ChrisFix
• Speakers: Chris
• Duration: 00:16:11

Overview

This video explains the differences between various gasoline octane ratings and their importance in preventing engine knock. It clarifies common myths about fuel, discusses the role of fuel additives in keeping an engine clean, and provides clear instructions on how to determine the correct fuel type for your vehicle based on manufacturer recommendations.

Key takeaways

• Octane Rating: The octane number indicates a fuel's resistance to detonation (engine knock), not its energy content. Higher octane fuel does not provide better fuel economy or more power unless the engine requires it to prevent knock.
• Engine Knock: Detonation occurs when the fuel-air mixture explodes unevenly in the combustion chamber, which can damage engine components. Higher compression or forced induction engines are more prone to knock and often require higher octane fuel.
• Fuel Additives: All gasoline brands must add detergents to clean engine components like fuel injectors, pistons, and valves. Some premium fuels, like Shell's V-Power Nitro+, contain significantly more additives to help prevent carbon buildup, reduce wear, and protect against corrosion.
• Determining Fuel Type: The best way to know which fuel to use is to check your vehicle's owner's manual, the sticker behind the fuel door, the fuel filler cap, or the dashboard indicator. Always follow the manufacturer's recommendation for "required" or "recommended" fuel.
• Premium vs. Regular: Use premium fuel only if required or recommended by the manufacturer. Using regular fuel in a car that requires premium can cause engine damage. If premium is recommended, using regular may result in a slight decrease in performance and fuel economy but is generally safe due to knock sensors.