Have you ever pulled up to the pump at a gas station and noticed the lower octane fuel is cheaper? Or perhaps you wondered if a higher octane fuel will help you achieve better fuel economy. If you’ve ever found yourself in one of these situations, we have some answers for you regarding whether you can use a lower or higher octane fuel than what is recommended for your specific car.
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Can you use lower octane fuel to save money on gas?
Toyota (likely along with most other OEMs) does not recommend using a lower octane fuel than what is specifically recommended for your vehicle. If you use a vehicle with an octane rating that is lower than what your vehicle needs, you run the risk of engine knocking, which can lead to extensive engine damage. So, no, it’s not worth it to use lower octane fuel just to save a few bucks on gas.
Will higher octane help your vehicle achieve better fuel economy?
Along with a lower octane fuel, the gas pump probably also has a higher octane fuel option. While switching to fuel with a higher octane rating will do no damage to your vehicle, it is unlikely that there will be any obvious difference in gas mileage under normal driving conditions.
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In the end, it makes the most sense to stick with the exact octane rating that is recommended for your vehicle. If you have any other questions about fuel options and other car-related inquiries, feel free to reach out to our team at Toyota Vacaville or get in touch with your local dealership or service center.
