Is there any benefit to using mid-grade fuel?

[nds76]

It's been quite some time since I've logged in. Is it good to use mid-grade on my 2019 Equinox? I thought one time I saw it was recommended on here from some official source even though the manual says 87? I try to use Mobil when I can.

 

[Big Papi]

Top Tier gasoline of recommended octane is what to use.

 

[ricklack]

There is a lot of debate on this subject. My opinion is that there is no downside to using higher grades of fuel, except the hit to the wallet. I do agree that top tier fuel is the way to go- more cleaning additives.

There are ideas out there that for DI and especially DI engines with turbos, that premium is the way to go. The higher the grade (cost), the more cleaning additives are present, which should help.

Personally, I had an issue at about 5,000km where ice formed around my gas fill tube and I had to chip it away. I was concerned some ice might have gotten into the fuel, so I used premium on that trip from Canada to Florida for the increased additives. I noticed a decent jump in fuel economy and power (could have been my imagination) after several tanks, so i just kept using premium as I saw no harm and I can afford it. Note that the manual states the "break in " period is about 6,400km which coincides with these changes I noticed as well.

Yeah, i could go back to regular gas and see what happened, but I am happy with the way the car is running and feel no need to mess with success. I am over 164,000km trouble free miles.

 

[PoManNox]

Like said, mid or premium can't hurt, but I doubt it will have any benefit for the engine over a regular grade top tier fuel.

Assuming this is in regards to the 1.5L, you'll get greater benefit changing your engine oil at a 4-5K mile interval.

 

[SteveK]

I use chevron 94 and have to be careful not to spin the tires. I have the 2.0.
I notice a difference.
However what I suggest is fill the tank with 87 and near empty fill with 94 and then compare how many more km you went, do the math and tell me if it cost more to cover the difference in milage with the higher cost per liter.

 

[Lee]

Is it good to use mid-grade on my 2019 Equinox?

What do you consider mid grade? 89?
In Iowa we have 87, 89, 91 and 93.
87 comes with 10% ethanol or no ethanol.
91 is no ethanol
93 is 10% ethanol
I don't see 89 much anymore and can't remember is it's ethanol free.
Our Standard station in town has it. I'll check the next time I get gas.
Almost forgot. We also have 88 which is E15 and we have E85 which is 85% ethanol.

 

[Billh]

I use top tier premium in my Equinox, Harley, rider lawnmower and both push mowers. But that’s just me and my choice.

 

[Jondster]

I use top tier premium in my Equinox, Harley, rider lawnmower and both push mowers. But that’s just me and my choice.

I agree with the "Top Tier" (has best detergent mix) but I think many small engine manufacturers (mowers, etc.) advise using premium grade

 

[Billh]

I agree with the "Top Tier" (has best detergent mix) but I think many small engine manufacturers (mowers, etc.) advise using premium grade

I figured if it’s turbo charged or air cooled, it needs premium.

 

[Jondster]

Your mowers have turbochargers?! Usually their compression ratios are fairly low, even if air-cooled.

 

[Sayssamson]

Your mowers have turbochargers?! Usually their compression ratios are fairly low, even if air-cooled.

No, but he did said manufacturers advise it.

Wish my lawn mower had a turbo, id put a loud blow off and race all other mowers

 

[Jondster]

I errored typing. Briggs and Stratton, Kohler and others advise against using mid or premium level fuels