Petrol is graded using the Research Octane Number or RON such as 91, 95, 98, 100 or even 103. The RON number marks the fuels resistance to ‘pre-ignition’ or firing before it should due to heat from the engine.

Low-grade fuel doesn’t mean low quality - the grade determines how much heat and pressure the fuel can resist before it detonates. Lower grade fuels detonate at lower heat and pressure than higher grades.

Engines work by getting power from an explosion of fuel and air ignited by a spark plug. If this explosion happens before the spark plug fires it creates a condition called “knock,” which can damage a motor and reduce power.

It's called 'knock' as that is the sound made when the fuel mix detonates too early rather than burning smoothly for fuel - which means you aren't getting the most out of your car, or your tank of fuel..

If your car is making any kind of knocking noise you should contact Auto Centre Gold Coast in Burleigh Heads today.

To find out the best fuel for your car, read your car’s manual or check the label on the inside of the fuel filler door. Generally high performance vehicles need a higher octane fuel.

Remember, putting premium petrol in a car that doesn’t actually need it will not make your car faster or run cleaner, it will just drain your bank account that much faster!