Petrol drivers are only just realising the superiority myth behind certain forecourts
A common misconception about supermarket petrol stations may have some drivers missing savings.
Some drivers who opt to fill their cars at supermarkets to save money may wonder if they’re getting the same-quality petrol as other forecourts — but a closer look at fuel regulations in the UK has revealed the answer to this question.
Motorists who prefer supermarket petrol aren’t receiving a lower-grade product since all unleaded fuel sold in the UK conforms to the same British standards.
Instead, the differences between fuel types relate to the types and amounts of performance additives available in and outside supermarket forecourts, reports Which?
Manufacturers place these performance additives into base unleaded fuel, including detergents or friction modifiers.
Detergents prevent damaging carbon deposit buildups on engine components, while friction modifiers reduce wear by lubricating engine combustion chambers.
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Super unleaded fuel at petrol stations generally has more performance additives than its regular unleaded counterpart.
You can also identify different fuel types at a forecourt pump by examining each nozzle’s numeric octane rating.
Octane ratings refer to a petrol grade’s ability to resist knocking or pinging, which causes increased temperatures inside the engine.
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The UK’s most-common petrol octane ratings include:
Premium Unleaded (95 RON)
Super Unleaded (97/98 RON)
The inside of many gas cars’ gas tank flaps have a label stating the different octane ratings the vehicle can run on and the specific type of fuel the manufacturer recommends.
While this tip can help remind you of the quality of gasoline your car requires, it can also help you refuel rented vehicles.
