One of the most common questions drivers ask is, “Should I be using premium fuel?” There’s a widespread belief that premium petrol is always better for your engine, gives you more power, and keeps your car healthier. The truth is a little more practical, and a lot better for your wallet.

Let’s bust one of the biggest motoring myths.

What “premium” actually means

In Australia, the difference between regular unleaded, premium unleaded, and high-octane fuels isn’t about cleanliness or quality, it’s about octane rating.

Octane measures a fuel’s resistance to knocking (also called pinging), which happens when fuel ignites too early in the engine. High-performance and turbocharged engines are often designed to run higher compression, which means they require higher octane fuel to operate correctly.

But here’s the key point:
If your engine isn’t designed for premium fuel, it usually won’t benefit from it.

When premium fuel is necessary

You should use premium fuel if:

• Your manufacturer specifically recommends or requires it
• Your vehicle has a high-compression, turbocharged, or performance engine
• Your owner’s manual states a minimum octane rating above standard unleaded

In these cases, using lower-octane fuel can cause knocking, reduced performance, and long-term engine damage.

When premium fuel is a waste of money

If your car is designed to run on standard unleaded (which most everyday vehicles are), filling up with premium won’t magically:

• Improve fuel economy
• Increase engine life
• Add noticeable power
• Make your car “run cleaner”

Modern engines automatically adjust timing and fuel delivery. If premium isn’t needed, the engine simply won’t take advantage of it. You’re paying more per litre with little to no real-world benefit.

But what about “cleaning additives”?

Some premium fuels include extra detergents designed to help keep fuel systems clean. While these can be helpful, they are not essential for most modern vehicles that are serviced regularly and run good-quality fuel.

Consistent servicing, quality oil, clean filters, and correct tyre pressures do far more for your car’s health than upgrading fuel grades unnecessarily.

The real secret to engine longevity

The biggest factors in keeping your engine healthy are:

• Using the correct fuel grade recommended by the manufacturer
• Regular servicing
• Quality engine oil
• Good driving habits
• Fixing small problems before they become big ones

Fuel choice matters, but only when it matches what your engine was built for.

How to know what fuel your car needs

Check:

• Your owner’s manual
• The sticker inside the fuel flap
• The manufacturer’s website

If it says 91, standard unleaded is perfectly fine. If it specifies 95 or 98, then premium isn’t optional, it’s necessary.

Honest advice beats expensive myths

At Auto Leaders, we believe good mechanics save customers money, not just fix cars. If your vehicle doesn’t require premium fuel, there’s no advantage in paying extra for it.

If you’re unsure what your car should be running, ask us next time you’re in. We’ll point you in the right direction, no myths, no upselling, just straight answers.