Does the Ford Explorer ST need premium fuel?
Yes. Ford recommends premium unleaded gasoline for the Explorer ST to deliver the engine’s advertised horsepower and peak throttle response.
Why premium fuel matters for the Explorer ST
Engine and octane expectations
The Explorer ST uses a high-performance 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 that is tuned for premium fuel. Higher octane helps prevent pre-ignition (knock) under heavy load and allows the engine to retain its timing and power output. Using a lower-octane fuel can force the engine control system to pull timing, reducing peak horsepower and throttle responsiveness.
To compare options and their effects on performance, consider the following:
- Premium unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 93 (R+M/2) is the recommended fuel to sustain the Explorer ST’s published horsepower and performance metrics.
- Regular unleaded gasoline (87 octane) can be used in a pinch, but power and acceleration may be noticeably reduced, particularly during spirited driving or hot weather conditions.
- In practical daily driving, some drivers may not perceive a dramatic difference, but the engine’s peak capability is aligned with premium fuel.
In short, premium fuel supports the Explorer ST’s intended performance, while regular gasoline can operate but with compromises in power and responsiveness.
Practical considerations for owners
Cost, driving patterns, and guidelines
Fuel choice affects running costs and driving experience. Here’s what to know:
- Cost differences: Premium fuel costs more per gallon than regular; plan for higher fuel expenses if you regularly run the engine at high load or near its peak power.
- Driving patterns: If your use is mostly daily commuting with light throttle, you may not notice a large difference on regular fuel, but peak performance will still be enhanced by premium.
- Official guidance: Always verify the fuel requirement for your model year in the Owner’s Manual or Ford’s official specifications, as requirements can vary by year and market.
Bottom line: For maximum performance and to match the Explorer ST’s design intent, premium fuel is recommended; regular fuel can be a temporary substitute but will not deliver the same performance.
Summary
The Ford Explorer ST is engineered for premium gasoline to unlock its full 400-horsepower performance and anticipated throttle response. While regular fuel can run the vehicle, it typically results in reduced power and slower acceleration under demanding conditions. For owners seeking the vehicle’s intended performance, premium fuel is the recommended choice; occasional use of regular is possible but comes with trade-offs. Always check the specific fuel requirement for your model year with Ford’s official guidance.
