Premium petrol is always best right? Wrong!

Want to get the most out of your tank? Did you know by choosing the correct type of fuel for your car you can save money and possibly even 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 scores the fuels resistance to ‘pre-ignition' or firing before it should due to heat from the engine.

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

Does it matter what grade of fuel you use?
Engines work by getting power from an explosion of fuel and air ignited by a spark plug. 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.

Knocking is the sound made as the mix of fuel and air is detonating too early rather than burning smoothly for fuel - which means you aren't getting the most out of your car, or your tank of fuel..

To discover which fuel is recommended, read your car's manual or check the label on the inside of the fuel filler door. Generally high octane fuels are required by cars with performance engines or that are turbocharged.

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