What Kind of Gas Does a Chevrolet Take?
What Kind of Gas Does a Chevrolet Take?
Posted on July 4, 2025
If you're standing at the pump wondering whether to fill up your Chevrolet with regular or premium gas, you're definitely not alone. It's a common question we hear from drivers all over Langenburg and across Saskatchewan. The good news is that for most Chevrolet vehicles, regular unleaded gas is all you need. Still, there are a few exceptions, and knowing what your Chevy needs can help you protect your engine and save money at the pump.
Understanding the Difference Between Regular and Premium Gas
To start, regular gas typically has an octane rating of 87, while premium gas has a higher octane rating, usually 91 or above. The higher the octane, the more resistant the fuel is to pre-ignition, which is often referred to as engine knock. Premium fuel is designed for engines that are tuned for higher performance. But if your engine doesn’t require it, using premium fuel won’t offer any real benefits. That’s why it’s important to match your gas to your vehicle’s needs.
Most Chevrolet Models Use Regular Gas
Chevrolet engineers most of their popular vehicles to run efficiently on regular 87-octane gas. This includes models like the Silverado 1500, Equinox, Traverse, Trailblazer and Malibu. These vehicles are designed to deliver solid performance and fuel economy on standard unleaded gas. You won’t get more horsepower or better mileage by using premium fuel in them, and you’ll just end up spending more at the pump.
Some Chevy Models Benefit from Premium Fuel
Now, if you’re driving something on the sportier or more performance-focused side, the story might be different. Chevrolet models like the Camaro SS or ZL1, the Corvette, or even a Tahoe with the available 6.2-litre V8 are often designed to run best on premium fuel. In these cases, using higher-octane gas helps the engine deliver the performance it was built for. It also protects the engine from knocking and can contribute to a longer life for certain engine components. If your owner’s manual says premium is recommended or required, it’s worth sticking to it.
Is It Okay to Use Premium in a Vehicle That Only Needs Regular?
Yes, it’s perfectly safe to use premium fuel in a vehicle designed for regular gas. Your engine won’t be harmed, but you probably won’t see any improvement in performance or efficiency. So unless your vehicle is built to take advantage of high-octane fuel, you're just paying extra for something you don’t need.
What Happens If You Use Regular in a Vehicle That Needs Premium?
If your Chevrolet is one of the few that requires premium fuel and you accidentally fill up with regular, you might notice a drop in performance or hear engine knocking. In some cases, repeated use of the wrong fuel can affect long-term engine health. Always check your owner’s manual to be sure.
How Can You Know for Sure What Gas Your Chevy Needs?
The best place to look is always your Chevrolet owner’s manual. It will clearly state whether your engine requires or recommends premium fuel. You can also find this information printed on a sticker inside the fuel door or cap. If you’re still unsure, just stop by Paragon Sales Ltd in Langenburg. Our team can quickly look up your VIN and give you the exact fuel spec for your model.
Make the Smart Fuel Choice for Your Chevrolet
Most Chevy drivers across Saskatchewan will do just fine with regular unleaded gas. It keeps things simple, keeps costs down and delivers the performance your vehicle was built for. If you’re in one of Chevrolet’s performance models, following the fuel recommendation helps you get the most out of your engine.
Talk to Us at Paragon Sales Ltd in Langenburg, SK
Have more questions about your Chevrolet? Whether you're curious about the right fuel, need help with maintenance or are thinking about your next vehicle, we’re always here to help. Visit Paragon Sales Ltd in Langenburg, SK, and let’s make sure you’re getting the best out of your Chevy.