Gas prices are lower than they were a year ago, but new research shows millions of people are still wasting a lot of money at the pump.
Research shows Americans are losing money by filling their tanks with the wrong type of gas, but there's an easy fix that can be a big money saver.
The next time you go to fill up, take a moment to read your owner's manual or the writing on your gasoline cap.
According to new AAA research, millions of American drivers wasted $2.1 billion last year by using premium-grade gasoline in vehicles designed to run on regular fuel. Nearly 70 percent of drivers own a vehicle that requires regular gas.
"A lot of people put premium gas in because they think they are treating their car to something nice," AAA Car Doctor John Paul said. "Premium fuel doesn't necessarily mean better gasoline."
As part of their research, AAA conducted a fuel evaluation on different cars to determine if there are any benefits to using premium gas when the car doesn't need it. Each vehicle was tested to measure horsepower, fuel economy and tailpipe emissions when using both fuel types in a variety of driving conditions.
"All three of those cars didn't require premium fuel, but when you put premium fuel in it, there was such little change in performance, vehicle emissions and fuel economy," Paul said. "It's not even close to being thought to being worth it."
"If your vehicle was designed by General Motors to operate with 87 octane, and you are spending the money for 91 or 93, you are clearly wasting money," Direct Tire general manager Bob Lane said. "That vehicle is going to run at its optimum level with the fuel they designed that automobile for."
Experts also urge drivers to stick with top tier gasoline from big retailers, which leads to fewer engine deposits and better vehicle performance. Carbon deposits are a big problem in our industry right now and using a top tier gasoline is paramount.
Vehicle performance also depends on the type of motor oil you're using. Experts say before you get your next oil change, make sure the mechanic is using the correct one. Otherwise you'll reduce the life of your engine, costing you money in the long-run.
