KINGSTON, Jamaica—With rising fuel prices forcing motorists to find ways to save money on gas, Petrojam is reminding them that selecting the right octane grade is an important first step.

According to Petrojam in a press release, opting for 87-octane gas instead of 90-octane could lead to savings of up to $15 per litre at the pump.

“If a car is designed for 87-octane, using 90-octane usually offers no benefit. Most gasolene vehicles are designed to run on 87-octane, but others are designed to use higher octane fuel,” explained Elon Parkinson, communications manager for Petrojam. “In both cases, using the right octane provides smoother operation, better performance, and engine safety,” he added.

Pretrojam said octane rating measures a fuel’s performance and anti-knock properties, indicating how much compression the fuel can withstand before igniting prematurely.

It is also urging motorists to check their vehicle owner’s manual or manufacturer’s recommendation for the correct octane grade.

“It is important to note that higher octane has nothing to do with getting better mileage; it just prevents engine-knock on higher compression or turbocharged engines,” Parkinson said.

“For most vehicles, 87 provides optimal performance and reliability; higher-octane 90 is not universally needed. And with rising petroleum prices, every dollar counts. That’s why we’re encouraging motorists to keep a little extra cash in their pockets by making the right choice, based on the fuel grade recommended by their vehicle’s manufacturer,” he added.

When in doubt, motorists are urged to consult a qualified technician or service professional.