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Choosing the Right Gasoline for Winter

Shelly Reale
LOCAL CAR CARE | Camp Hill CAR CARE | Camp Hill AUTO CARE

A Guide to Cold-Weather Car Care

Winter is settling in and temperatures are dropping. Because of this, your car requires some extra attention to ensure it runs smoothly in the chilly weather. One crucial aspect of winter car care is selecting the right gasoline to keep your vehicle performing at its best. After a feature on WHTM'S ABC 27 News about why fuel economy in vehicles goes down in the winter, the experts at Meineke on Pleasant View road in New Cumberland decided to answer the question.

Understanding Gasoline Types in Winter

  1. Regular Unleaded: Regular unleaded gasoline is suitable for most vehicles in normal driving conditions. However, in extremely cold temperatures, it may become less efficient due to the formation of wax crystals that can clog fuel lines and filters.
  2. Premium Unleaded: Premium gasoline generally has a higher octane rating, which can enhance engine performance. While it might not directly impact cold-weather performance, some high-performance engines may benefit from the improved combustion characteristics of premium gasoline.
  3. Ethanol Blends: Ethanol blends, such as E10 (10% ethanol) or E85 (up to 85% ethanol), can be common at gas stations. However, in winter, ethanol can absorb moisture, potentially causing fuel system issues. Some regions adjust ethanol content seasonally, so be aware of the blend you're using.

Factors to Consider in Winter

  1. Octane Rating: While a higher octane rating is often associated with premium gasoline, it's not necessarily a requirement for winter driving. Most vehicles are designed to run efficiently on regular unleaded gasoline. So, check your owner's manual for the recommended octane rating for your car.
  2. Cold-Weather Additives: Some gasoline brands offer cold-weather additives designed to prevent fuel line freezing and improve combustion in low temperatures. Therefore, you might want to consider using these specially formulated fuels, especially if you live in an area with extremely cold winters.
  3. Fuel System Maintenance: Regular maintenance of your car's fuel system is essential in winter. Replace fuel filters and use fuel system cleaners to prevent the accumulation of deposits that can affect fuel flow.
  4. Local Climate Considerations: Different regions experience varying winter conditions. So, if you live in an area with harsh winters and sub-zero temperatures, it's advisable to choose a gasoline type that is specifically formulated for extreme cold.

Regular maintenance of your vehicle's fuel system is equally important to ensure your vehicle's optimal performance during the colder months. The ASE certified mechanics at Meineke in New Cumberland can help if you have any car care concerns.

If the New Cumberland location is inconvenient, you can get the same top-quality service at any of the other 13 Meineke Car Care Centers in South Central Pennsylvania.

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