Is splurging on better gas is worth it? A recent study just answered that question, and the results are in: Top Tier gasoline lives up to its promise, delivering value for the extra pennies at the pump.1
While skeptics may scoff at the higher price, this research offers compelling evidence that the investment in Top Tier fuel can pay off in the long run. Here’s why.
What is Top Tier Gas?
Top Tier gas is a classification of gasoline that meets a higher standard of detergent additives than the minimum required by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Developed and supported by several major automakers, Top Tier gas aims to keep engines cleaner and improve overall vehicle performance.
The Difference
While all gasoline must contain some level of detergent additives to prevent the buildup of harmful deposits in engines, Top Tier gas contains a significantly higher concentration. This improved formulation helps to:
- Minimize engine deposits: Deposits can reduce fuel economy, increase emissions, and cause drivability problems like hard starts, hesitation, and stalling.
- Maintain engine performance: Clean engines run more efficiently, deliver better fuel economy, and have longer lifespans.
- Protect emissions systems: Top Tier gas cannot contain metallic additives that can harm emissions control systems.
Top Tier Gas Outperforms Competitors in Engine Deposit Test
In a rigorous engine test simulating 4,000 miles of real-world driving, Top Tier gasoline outperformed its non-Top Tier counterparts in preventing engine deposit buildup.
The test, conducted by AAA National, involved running an engine continuously for 100 hours on a specialized cycle. Upon completion, the engine was disassembled, photographed, and its key components were meticulously measured to determine the thickness of carbon deposits.
Six fuels were randomly selected for the test, comprising three standard gasoline sources and three Top Tier brands. The results revealed a stark contrast between the two categories, with Top Tier fuels consistently demonstrating superior deposit control.
Is it Worth the Extra Cost?
Top Tier gas typically costs a few cents more per gallon than regular gasoline. However, studies have shown that the extra cost can be offset by the improved fuel economy and reduced maintenance costs associated with cleaner engines.
Additionally, the benefits of Top Tier gas are most noticeable in modern, high-performance engines.
Who Supports Top Tier Gas?
Numerous automakers support the Top Tier standard, including BMW, General Motors, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, Ford, Honda, Toyota, Volkswagen, and others.
This means that using Top Tier gas is often recommended by the manufacturers of these vehicles.
Where You Can Find Top Tier Gas
Many major gasoline brands offer Top Tier gas at their stations. You can find a list of participating retailers on the official Top Tier website.(ref)
While the decision of whether to use Top Tier gas ultimately comes down to personal preference and budget, it’s clear that this higher-grade fuel offers several potential benefits for your vehicle’s engine health and performance.
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Martha A. Lavallie
Martha is a journalist with close to a decade of experience in uncovering and reporting on the most compelling stories of our time. Passionate about staying ahead of the curve, she specializes in shedding light on trending topics and captivating global narratives. Her insightful articles have garnered acclaim, making her a trusted voice in today's dynamic media landscape.
