Premium petrol is always best right? Not necessarily...

Think you're burning too much fuel? Did you know by choosing the right fuel for your car you can save money and possibly extend the life of your car?

Petrol is rated using the Research Octane Number or RON such as 91, 95, 98, 100 or even 103. The RON number grades the fuels resistance to ‘pre-ignition' or firing before it should due to heat from the engine.

Is a higher grade fuel better for my car?
A lower number doesn't mean lower quality - the grade signifies how much heat and pressure the gasoline can resist before it detonates. Higher grades can withstand higher heat and pressure than lower grades.

Why does it matter what grade of fuel i use?
Car engines work by igniting a mix of petrol and air with a spark plug to generate power. If the spark plug hasn't fired and the detonation happens early due to heat and pressure it creates a condition called “knock,” which can damage a motor and reduce power.

It's called 'knock' as that is the sound made when the fuel mix detonates too early rather than burning smoothly for fuel - which means you aren't getting the very best from your car..

How do i know what grade of petrol to use in my car?
To discover which fuel is right, read your car's manual or check the label on the inside of the fuel filler door. Generally high performance vehicles need a higher octane fuel. Putting premium petrol in a car that doesn't actually need it does not make your car faster or perform better, it will just drain your bank account that much faster!

Remember, putting premium petrol in a car that doesn't actually need it does not make your car faster or perform better, it will just drain your bank account that much faster!