Gas octane
I'm sure we'll have this same discussion for years to come. 
03-05-2006, 11:30 PM
#15
Senior Member
Join Date: 10-14-2005
Location: SoCal
Posts: 5,359
While I have never experienced engine knock in my HHR, I have noticed a definite improvement in both power and fuel economy using premium. Premium is recommended for the 2.4L engine, which has a higher compression ratio than the 2.2L. And remember - with a 17-gallon tank, you're only talking about $2.50 more per fillup. In reality, that's about 1/2 of what it would cost to buy octane booster!
Go BIG - buy Premium!
Go BIG - buy Premium!
03-06-2006, 05:43 AM
#17
Senior Member
Join Date: 01-14-2006
Location: Waterford, MI
Posts: 230
My 2 cents, remember that the 2.4L system has an octane sensor in the fuel system so the ECU has a heads up on the coatne of the fuel.
I'm running 87 octane for the winter and will switch to 93 octane in the warmer months.
I'm running 87 octane for the winter and will switch to 93 octane in the warmer months.
03-06-2006, 07:09 AM
#18
Senior Member
Join Date: 08-28-2005
Location: Florida
Posts: 242
The only reason the premium is recommended (IMO) is so Chevy can claim 177 hp against their competition. Lower octanes actually yield better fuel economy since the ECU does retard the spark and thus reduce power... reduction in power means less fuel usage.
03-06-2006, 08:23 AM
#19
Banned
Join Date: 10-14-2005
Location: Rochester,N.Y.
Posts: 9,121
I say don't ever buy regular gas, only buy premium (93 or better). :) I have lived by that rule my whole life regardless of the manufacturers recommendations. 
Just please no technical discussions on gas, I don't need my head to hurt over thinking gas again. 
Just please no technical discussions on gas, I don't need my head to hurt over thinking gas again.
