Carbon deposits are a normal occurrence in an engine, but they can build up over time and cause problems. Essentially, heat, pressure and oxidation can turn unburned fuel into a black soot-like substance. This can collect around critical parts of the engine, such as the injectors, intakes and pistons. These deposits can worsen over time, reducing performance efficiency and ultimately leading to expensive repairs. But you can save your engine with these tips for preventing and removing carbon buildup, including choosing higher quality fuel.
Some major brands sell premium fuel that they claim can reduce existing carbon deposits in the engine. But does it actually work? AAA conducted a study in 2016 to put this theory to the test.
To be clear, all fuels, per EPA regulations, contain some additives to help reduce the formation of carbon deposits. However, Top Tier fuel contains more detergents, above the minimum required. AAA concluded that drivers who switched from a product with the lowest allowable concentration of additives to Top Tier fuel may experience a reduction in carbon deposits and would “likely” benefit more from long-term use.
But AAA’s findings are largely based on tests conducted on a single vehicle, leaving plenty of room for speculation. So you’ll have to decide whether it’s worth the extra three cents per gallon that AAA said in 2019 it would cost to put Top Tier gas in your car, at least until a more thorough investigation is done.
What is in Top Tier gas and how can you find it?
Top Tier fuel was developed with the help of several automakers – including Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Ford and General Motors – who wanted something that went beyond the EPA standard. Although the specific blend varies by supplier, popular additives in Top Tier fuel include polyether amines (PEAs), which are chemical compounds designed to dissolve carbon deposits in the engine. However, unlike some other additives, PEAs do not break down as quickly in high-temperature environments, such as those in your engine.
Top Tier fuel is not a brand nor does it relate to octane rating, so you don’t need to select premium grade unless your car’s engine really needs it. Several gasoline brands offer Top Tier gas, and they must be licensed to carry it, along with maintaining certain performance standards. You can identify Top Tier fuel by looking for a sticker on the pump. To find stations near you that offer this, use the search function on the Top layer website, which lists all participating brands.
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