Does the 2024 Chevy Traverse require premium gas?
The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse does not require premium gasoline; regular unleaded fuel (87 octane) is suitable for normal driving, and premium gas is optional with no guaranteed performance gain for everyday use.
With the Traverse’s 3.6-liter V6 powering most trims, Chevrolet designed the engine to run reliably on standard regular fuel. This article explains the official fuel recommendations, why octane levels matter, and practical guidance for fueling your 2024 Traverse.
What the manual says about fuel requirements
The owner’s manual for the 2024 Traverse specifies the use of regular unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher. It notes that premium gasoline is not required for normal operation, though you may choose to use higher-octane fuel if you wish. The engine management system is tuned to run well on regular fuel under typical driving conditions.
Why octane matters and how it affects performance
Octane is a measure of a fuel’s resistance to knocking or pre-ignition. For many non-turbo, naturally aspirated engines like the Traverse’s 3.6-liter V6, 87-octane regular fuel is sufficient for everyday driving. Using higher-octane fuel does not automatically increase horsepower or fuel economy in this engine, except in unusual circumstances where the engine experiences knocking on regular fuel. In those cases, a retailer or dealer may suggest trying a higher-octane fuel, but this is not a standard requirement for normal use.
Key facts about fueling the 2024 Traverse:
- Regular unleaded gasoline (87 octane) is the recommended minimum for everyday driving.
- Premium (91–93 octane) is not required and typically does not provide noticeable benefits for most drivers.
- If knocking occurs on regular fuel, consult a dealer; higher-octane fuel may be tested as a temporary measure, but follow official guidance.
In practice, most owners will find regular fuel to be perfectly adequate for daily commuting, family trips, and highway driving. Premium fuel is an optional choice and not a necessity for the Traverse’s standard configuration.
Practical guidance for fueling the 2024 Traverse
When fueling your Traverse, you should consider cost, fuel availability, and driving needs. If you regularly drive in conditions with extreme heat, heavy towing, or sustained high-load driving, you might occasionally test higher-octane fuel to see if you notice any difference in performance or knock resistance; however, the typical benefit is often minimal for this engine.
Effect on warranty and maintenance
Using regular 87-octane fuel as recommended does not affect the vehicle’s warranty coverage. The manufacturer’s guidance is based on the engine’s design and timing, and adhering to the recommended fuel should keep operation within specifications. If you have concerns about fuel choices in unusual conditions, consult your Chevrolet dealer for tailored advice.
Summary
The 2024 Chevy Traverse does not require premium gasoline. Regular 87-octane fuel is suitable for normal driving, and premium gas offers little to no guaranteed advantage for this engine in everyday use. Always follow the owner’s manual as your baseline, and consult your dealer if you encounter engine knocking or unusual performance issues that might warrant a higher-octane fuel trial.
