Which gas stations have the best quality fuel?

When the fuel tank approaches empty, many drivers tend to choose the most convenient or cheapest gas station to refill. However, there are subtle variations among different fuel brands and their specific formulations.

All gasoline sold in the U.S. adheres to the minimum requirements set by the government. The differences lie in the additives and detergents included in the fuel blend to enhance engine longevity.

Certain fuel companies, in collaboration with major automakers like BMW, Fiat-Chrysler, General Motors, Honda, Mercedes-Benz, Toyota, and Volkswagen/Audi, have gone a step further by setting a higher standard known as Top Tier fuels. Brands meeting the Top Tier criteria contain additional detergents beyond the minimum requirements, effectively preventing carbon buildup in car engines.

Over time, the modern engine accumulates carbon residue as a byproduct of its combustion process occurring thousands of times per minute. Similar to barnacles on a boat, carbon deposits can accumulate on crucial engine components such as valves, pistons, and the combustion chamber. As carbon builds up, engines may run less efficiently, resulting in reduced power and poorer fuel economy.

According to a survey conducted by AAA, Top Tier fuels resulted in 19 times fewer deposits after simulating 4,000 miles of driving in an engineering lab. Additionally, they helped clean existing deposits from engines.

To identify Top Tier fuel, look for the Top Tier logo displayed on the pump. Any fuel, regardless of octane rating or whether it is diesel, can qualify for Top Tier status. Therefore, using premium fuel is unnecessary if your car only requires regular gasoline. However, using lower octane fuels than specified for cars requiring premium fuel could potentially damage the engine.

The following is a list of some Top Tier fuel brands available in the U.S. For the latest updates and information on Canadian, Mexican, and South American brands offering Top Tier fuel, you can refer to the official Top Tier gas website.

 

Chevron

Exxon

Shell

BP

Mobil

Texaco

Conoco

Phillips 66

QuikTrip

Costco (Kirkland Signature gasoline)