Is Cheap Gas Ruining Your Engine? Here’s What You Need to Know

nicklawson311 • March 19, 2025

Is Cheap Gas Ruining Your Engine? Here’s What You Need to Know

Saving money at the pump is tempting, but using low-quality gasoline can do more harm than good. Your car's engine is designed to perform best with clean, high-quality fuel, and filling up with the cheapest option may lead to long-term damage. At Autopia Bloomington, we ensure your engine runs at peak performance by helping you make informed fueling choices.

How Cheap Gas Affects Your Engine

  • Lower Fuel Efficiency – Low-quality gasoline often contains more ethanol, which burns faster and reduces your miles per gallon.
  • Increased Engine Deposits – Cheap gas may lack proper detergents, leading to carbon buildup in fuel injectors and engine components.
  • Engine Knocking & Reduced Performance – Lower-octane gas can cause premature combustion, leading to knocking noises and sluggish acceleration.
  • Potential Long-Term Damage – Consistent use of poor-quality fuel can lead to clogged fuel injectors, damaged spark plugs, and even costly repairs.

How to Protect Your Engine from Poor-Quality Gas

  • Use Top-Tier Gasoline – Look for fuel brands that contain high-quality additives and detergents to keep your engine clean.
  • Follow Your Manufacturer’s Recommendations – Check your owner’s manual to see the correct fuel type for your car.
  • Avoid Over-Reliance on Discount Gas Stations – Not all gas stations adhere to the same quality standards, so choose a trusted provider.
  • Get Regular Fuel System Inspections – A professional inspection can detect fuel-related engine problems before they become serious.

Not Sure If Your Engine Is Running Smoothly? We Can Help!

If you suspect your car isn’t performing at its best, let our expert mechanics take a look. We’ll check your fuel system, engine health, and overall performance to ensure your car stays in top shape.


Book your engine inspection today for a smoother, more efficient drive!

Schedule an Appointment
By nicklawson311 September 12, 2025
Blog #127: Essential Car Safety Checks Every Owner Should Schedule in Bloomington
By nicklawson311 September 11, 2025
Blog #126: Honda Engine Care: Secrets to Longevity You Shouldn’t Ignore in Bloomington
By nicklawson311 September 10, 2025
Blog #125: Top 5 Vehicle Maintenance Mistakes That Can Shorten Your Car’s Lifespan — And How to Avoid Them in Bloomington
The Costly Myth of “Lifetime” Fluids in Modern Cars - Autopia Auto Repair - Bloomington
By nicklawson311 September 5, 2025
If you’ve been relying on the promise of “lifetime” fluids, here’s what you need to know before your vehicle pays the price.
The Truth About Hybrid and EV Maintenance in Bloomington: What Every Driver Should Know
By nicklawson311 September 5, 2025
If you’re driving—or considering—a hybrid or EV in Bloomington, here’s what you need to know.
Car Battery Drain Problems in Bloomington: Why Your Car Won’t Start on Cold Mornings
By nicklawson311 September 4, 2025
In this guide, we’ll cover why batteries fail in cold weather, early warning signs, common causes of battery drain, and what you can do to keep your car starting reliably all year long.
Transmission Repair in Bloomington: Signs Most Drivers Miss Until It’s Too Late
By nicklawson311 August 30, 2025
In this guide, we’ll cover the common warning signs, why they’re often overlooked, and what you should do to protect your car (and your wallet).
Oil Leak Repair in Bloomington: Why That Small Spot in Your Driveway Could Mean Big Trouble
By nicklawson311 August 28, 2025
If you’ve spotted oil under your car, this guide will explain why it matters, the most common causes, and how to fix it before it becomes a major issue.
Steering Wheel Vibrations in Bloomington: Common Causes and Smart Fixes
By nicklawson311 August 28, 2025
Let’s break down the most common culprits behind a vibrating steering wheel and what you can do to fix them.
Car Overheating in Bloomington: Common Causes and Smart Fixes Every Driver Should Know
By nicklawson311 August 22, 2025
At Autopia Bloomington, we specialize in diagnosing and fixing overheating issues before they spiral into major repairs.