Do Fords need premium gas?

The short answer is that most Ford vehicles do not require premium gasoline, and can run perfectly well on regular unleaded fuel. However, there are some exceptions where Ford recommends using premium gas for optimal performance and fuel efficiency.

Understanding Ford's Fuel Recommendations

Ford's fuel recommendations are based on the engine design and performance characteristics of each vehicle model. The majority of Ford's lineup, including popular models like the F-150, Escape, and Fusion, are designed to run on regular 87 octane gasoline. This is the most common and cost-effective fuel option for Ford owners.

However, Ford does recommend premium 91 octane or higher fuel for certain high-performance models, such as the Mustang GT, Shelby GT350, and some EcoBoost-equipped vehicles. These engines are designed to take advantage of the higher octane rating to deliver more power and efficiency.

When to Use Premium Fuel in a Ford

Here are the key guidelines on when to use premium gas in a Ford vehicle:

• High-performance models: Ford recommends premium fuel for models like the Mustang GT, Shelby GT350, and some EcoBoost-equipped vehicles to maximize power and efficiency.


• Turbocharged engines: Many Ford vehicles with turbocharged engines, such as the EcoBoost line, perform better and are more fuel-efficient with premium gas.


• Older vehicles: Older Ford models, especially those with high-compression engines, may also benefit from premium fuel to prevent knocking and ensure optimal performance.

For all other Ford models, regular 87 octane gasoline is perfectly suitable and will not harm the engine. Owners should consult their owner's manual or the fuel information label inside the fuel door to determine the recommended fuel type for their specific Ford vehicle.

Does Ford recommend premium gas?

Premium Fuel Considerations
While the Ford F-150 is designed to operate on regular unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87, the owner's manual also suggests that you can opt for premium fuel with an octane rating of 91 or higher for best overall performance.

What if I accidentally put 93 instead of 87?

Putting 87 octane in a car that requires 93 is generally fine for a one-time mistake and may result in a slight reduction in performance. Modern cars can often adjust their engine timing to compensate, but you should drive gently and avoid aggressive acceleration until you can fill up with the correct 93 octane gas again. If you have not yet driven the car, it's best to have the fuel drained to prevent potential engine knocking. 
What to do if you haven't started driving yet

• Do not start the engine. If you haven't driven the car yet, call a mechanic to have the tank drained and rectified. 
• Drain the tank. If you have the knowledge, you can siphon the fuel out yourself, but if unsure, a mechanic is the best option. 

What to do if you have already started driving

• Drive gently. Avoid aggressive driving, such as hard acceleration or high speeds, as this can cause engine knocking. 
• Fill up with 93 octane as soon as possible. Go to the gas station and fill the tank with 93 octane gasoline. This will mix with the remaining 87 octane fuel, raising the overall octane level in the tank to an acceptable level. 
• Monitor for issues. Keep an eye and ear out for any unusual noises, such as knocking or pinging, or performance issues. If you notice these symptoms, it's best to consult a mechanic. 

Why this happens and what to expect

• Engine knocking: Higher octane fuel prevents premature ignition in high-performance engines. Putting in lower octane gas can cause the fuel to ignite too early, leading to knocking. However, a car's knock sensors will typically adjust the ignition timing to prevent serious damage. 
• Performance reduction: You may experience a slight decrease in power or fuel efficiency. This is because the engine's computer may have to retard the timing to prevent knocking. 
• No long-term damage: One accidental mix is unlikely to cause lasting damage, as most modern vehicles can handle a one-time mistake of using a lower octane fuel. 

Should I use 87 or 93 gas in my F-150 EcoBoost?

You can run 87 for normal use. Ford lowered the compression ratio which is one reasons you don't need higher octane gas. 93 just burns slower and prevents pre det which you'd only see on really hot days or towing. Run 87 and save yourself the coin.

Can you put regular gas in a Ford F-150?

Yes, a Ford F-150 can use regular unleaded gasoline with a minimum octane rating of 87. While 87 octane is sufficient for normal operation, using a higher octane (91 or higher) is recommended for the best performance, especially in hot weather or when towing a trailer. 
Key details

• Minimum requirement: Your F-150 is designed to run on regular 87 octane unleaded gasoline. 
• Recommended for best performance: Premium fuel with an octane rating of 91 or higher is recommended for optimal performance, particularly under heavy load conditions like towing or in hot weather. 
• Performance differences: Using 87 octane will not cause engine damage, but performance, such as acceleration, may be noticeably better with premium fuel in certain situations. 
• Check your fuel door: The specific fuel requirements for your vehicle will be listed on a sticker inside the fuel filler door.