Different car fuel types explained

Filling up at the pump seems pretty routine, but have you every wondered why there are different types of car fuel? Isn’t gasoline just gasoline? The truth is that gasoline has several types of options when it comes to your vehicle and how it affects performance and efficiency. Additives and different octanes have been developed over time to yield different performance results for Orlando Toyota vehicles and even some engines are specifically engineered to accept only one type of car fuel. If you’re confused, don’t worry! Toyota of Orlando is here to help ease the confusion with an easy guide on different fuel types and how easy it is to figure which one is best for your car.

Background info on car fuel types

It’s common knowledge that most Orlando Toyota vehicles run on gasoline, but car fuel has changed quite a lot over time due to new research and efforts to cut back on environmental waste. Gasoline, in its pure form, used to be used to power vehicles but it’s use would result in such a forceful combustion that it would heavily damage engines over time. Not only this, but it caused a large amount of air pollution as well. Eventually, additives were included with car fuel to reduce engine knocking in Orlando Toyota vehicles, but these additives proved to be harmful to air quality. After regulations were passed to improve air quality emitted from vehicles, Orlando Toyota parts like catalytic converters and better exhaust systems were developed and so were different fuel types.

Unleaded regular

Unleaded regular car fuel is what most Orlando Toyota vehicles use. This type of gasoline uses no lead and typically contains ethanol or a similar additive. It’s the lowest octane (fuel quality rating) but doesn’t negatively affect engine health overtime.

Plus unleaded

Mid-grade fuel has some slight benefits over regular gasoline, namely when it comes to fuel economy. The octane is somewhat higher, making it a better grade for Orlando Toyota engines.

Premium unleaded

This type of fuel has the highest-octane rating and some vehicles require use of this type of gasoline to ensure peak performance. Many luxury Orlando Toyota vehicles use this fuel to keep the internal components of their engines clean and minimize knocking.

Diesel fuel

Typically, diesel car fuel is used for diesel specific engines which can be found in heavier trucks and utility vehicles. This type of fuel is uncommon for many Orlando Toyota vehicles but can be found at many gas stations.

Get your car fuel questions answered at Toyota of Orlando

If you’re uncertain as to which type of car fuel to use in your vehicle, make sure to consult your owner’s manual or ask one of our expert auto service techs! At Toyota of Orlando, our auto service techs can help guide you to the right fuel type and get your vehicle running as efficiently as possible. Give us a call at (407) 298 – 0001 to set up an appointment today!