When the fuel gauge nears empty, many drivers head to the gas station that is most convenient or has the lowest price. However, there are subtle distinctions between different brands and their specific fuel formulations. This means that there are specific gas stations in 2024 that offer the highest quality fuel for your vehicle.
All gasoline sold in the U.S. meets the minimum requirements set by the government. The variations between brands lie in the additives and detergents included in the blend to enhance the engine’s longevity.
Some fuel companies, in collaboration with major automakers such as Audi, BMW, Fiat-Chrysler, Ford, General Motors, Honda, Mercedes-Benz, Stellantis, Toyota, and Volkswagen, have set a higher standard known as Top Tier fuels. Brands that meet the Top Tier criteria contain additional detergents beyond the minimum requirements, aiding in the prevention of carbon buildup in car engines.
Over time, the engine will accumulate carbon residue, a result of the combustion process occurring thousands of times per minute. This carbon buildup can affect vital engine parts like valves, pistons, and the combustion chamber. As the carbon accumulates, engines may run less smoothly and efficiently, leading to reduced power or fuel economy.
According to a survey by AAA, Top Tier fuels left significantly fewer deposits after simulating 4,000 miles of driving in an engine lab. These fuels also helped clean existing deposits from engines.
To identify Top Tier fuel, look for the Top Tier logo on the pump. Any type of fuel, whether regular, premium, or diesel, can qualify for Top Tier status. Thus, premium fuel is not necessary if your car only requires regular. However, using lower octane fuel for a car that requires premium could potentially damage the engine.
Here is a list of Top Tier fuel brands available in the U.S. You can also refer to the official Top Tier gas website for the latest updates, as well as information on Canadian, Mexican, and South American brands that offer Top Tier fuel.
The 55 Top Tier fuel brands in the U.S.
- 76
- Aloha
- ARCO
- Beacon
- Belmont Car Wash
- CITGO
- Cenex
- Chevron
- Conoco
- Costco Wholesale
- CountryMark
- Dash In
- Diamond Shamrock
- Express Mart (Wisconsin)
- Exxon
- Fast Fuel
- Gold Medal Gasoline
- HFN – Hawaii Fueling Network
- Harmons Fuel Stop
- Hele
- J&E Wendy
- Kirkland Signature Gasoline
- MFA Oil Petro-Card 24
- Marathon
- Mega Saver
- Meijer
- Meijer Express
- Mobil
- Neste
- Ohana Fuels
- Phillips 66
- QT
- QuikTrip
- Ranger
- Ranger Fuel
- Ranger Mustang
- Ranger Stallion
- Ranger Thoroughbred
- Reeders
- Road Ranger
- Rutter’s
- Shamrock
- Shell
- Simonson Station Stores
- Sinclair
- Sunoco
- Texaco
- Tobacco Outlet Plus Grocery
- True Turbo
- Tulalip Market
- Valero
- Value America
- Waterway Fuels
- WOW
- Win Win
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the benefit of using Top Tier fuel?
A: Top Tier fuels contain additional detergents that help prevent carbon buildup in car engines, leading to improved engine performance and efficiency.
Conclusion
Choosing the right fuel for your vehicle can have a significant impact on its performance and longevity. By opting for Top Tier fuel from reputable brands, you can ensure that your engine stays cleaner and runs more efficiently. Make sure to look for the Top Tier logo when refueling to enjoy the benefits of high-quality fuel.
