Depending on the model and year, Mercedes-Benz vehicles require different types of fuel. Choosing the right Mercedes Benz gas type depends on many factors. The octane level recommended for most Mercedes automobiles is 91. Other fuels, however, should be used if the car is a diesel or has a high-performance engine. The vehicle year will also determine the type of fuel used.
The owner's manual for most Mercedes-Benz models states that you should use only unleaded 91 octane gasoline when using them. The electronic computer system detects the fuel type in the car. This system ensures that the vehicle operates appropriately with this fuel type. In addition, the high octane level will allow the vehicle to retain optimal horsepower levels. It also prevents engine knocking, which can be harmful to your Mercedes Benz.
But what will happen if you use the wrong gas type in your Mercedes Benz? Will you cause damage to your engine? And what should you do if this happens? To better understand these scenarios, you need to know first the difference between a premium and a regular gas type.
Premium Versus Regular Gasoline
There is no difference in gasoline quality between premium and regular; one is not better or worse than the other. The difference between the gasoline grade is the octane rating.
The octane rating of the fuel controls how soon it will ignite in your engine. Lower-octane gasoline ignites and burns faster than higher-octane gasoline. The higher the octane rating, the more excellent the resistance to pre-ignition.
Premium Gasoline
Premium gasoline is any gasoline having an octane level of 91 or higher. Ninety-one (91) octanes and 93 octanes are the most common kinds of premium gasoline. You can find them at gas stations in the United States (93 octane gasoline may be referred to as "ultra" or "super-premium" in some cases).
Regular Gasoline
Gasoline with an octane level of 87 is “regular”. Gasoline sold at 89 octanes is often labeled “midgrade” by most gas stations in the United States.
What is the Best Mercedes Benz Gas Type?
Your Mercedes-Benz luxury car comprises thousands of parts, all of which work together to provide the outstanding performance, comfort, and safety that you expect from this exceptional brand. In addition, manufacturers recommend filling up your Mercedes-Benz vehicle with premium unleaded gasoline that is 91 octane or higher to properly maintain your ride and keep it operating like new for years to come.
Mercedes-Benz also recommends that you fill up your vehicle with top-tier, low-sulfur unleaded gasoline the next time you go to the pump if it's available. This type of premium fuel has additives that eliminate hazardous carbon deposits and prevent buildup in the fuel system and essential engine components, effectively extending the life of your engine.
What if You Accidentally Used Regular Gas Instead of Premium Gas?
This mistake is a different story. Using low-octane fuel in a vehicle that requires premium fuel could result in catastrophic internal damage. You'll probably notice the spark knock (a sort of high-pitched pinging or rattling noise).
Fortunately, engine computers can modify the timing to lessen the amount of damage done, but you will notice lesser fuel efficiency and performance in your vehicle. Of course, you will NOT damage your car because you used regular fuel a few times. But don't give in to the temptation to use ordinary gas. You may not notice a difference in performance the first few times you use it, but you will if you use it for an extended time.
Furthermore, many Mercedes-Benz owner manuals warn against gasoline that includes more than 10% ethanol and 3% methanol by volume. These percentages can harm your luxurious vehicle. Nonetheless, drivers can still power their Mercedes-Benz using an emergency lower octane regular gasoline.
However, filling your Mercedes-Benz with lesser grade gas will reduce performance and significantly influence fuel efficiency if used for lengthy periods, so drive slowly until you can refuel with the right type of gasoline.
Finding the Right Mercedes Benz Gas Type
If you accidentally put the wrong type of fuel in your vehicle and suspect it will need some work to get back to normal, you can depend on the highly-trained professionals at our auto repair center. Ensuring your car is filled with the correct fuel for your engine is an integral part of car maintenance.
Feel free to contact us at North Fulton Auto Center for additional information or any inquiries about optimizing the performance of your Mercedes-Benz vehicle.
It’s important to note that the severity of these problems can vary depending on factors such as the type of vehicle, the amount of wrong fuel used, and the duration of usage. If you realize you have used the wrong fuel, it’s best to seek professional assistance and avoid starting the engine if possible to minimize potential damage.