AAA Says Drivers Waste $2 Billion on Premium Gas

BALTIMORE, Md. (WJZ)-- A new study reveals millions of U.S. drivers are splurging on a higher grade of gas when it doesn't make a difference at all.

It's billions. in unnecessary spending on gas, and experts say it because there's a misconception that premium gas is always ideal.

Cheaper is better according to a new study from AAA. Researchers found out that at least once in the last 12 months, 16 million drivers shelled out extra money for premium gas when the manufacturer didn't recommend it.

AAA said the unnecessary splurge was to the tune of $2 billion pumping premium into vehicles that only require regular.

"Wow, that's crazy, I think I can use that money for something else," said driver Una Brown.

AAA says a higher octane doesn't mean better quality, so the best way to figure out what's best for your vehicle is to read your owner's manual.

"There is no benefit to using 92 octane or 89 octane in a vehicle that requires 87. The only thing you get by doing that is a lighter wallet," said Ben Perricone of AAA mid-Atlantic.

The study also revealed a whopping 70 percent of U.S. drivers own a vehicle that uses regular gas. So, the overwhelming majority of motorists don't need to shell out more money for a higher grade.

"I was always told because of the type of car that I have that I had to use plus, but if I could use the regular, of course I will use the regular because I am trying to save money," said Mary Jefferson another driver.

AAA says it will not hurt your car if you used premium when regular is required. AAA says check your owners' manual because the majority of the cars out there run just fine on regular.

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