Not all gas is created equal. While it might seem like fuel is the same no matter where you fill up, differences in detergent additives, ethanol blends, and fuel quality standards can affect your engine’s long-term performance. If you’re looking to keep your car running smoothly while also protecting your fuel economy, understanding which gas station brands offer higher quality fuel is essential.
Here’s what you need to know about fuel quality and how to choose the best gas for your vehicle.
What Does “Top Tier” Fuel Mean?
The easiest way to identify high-quality fuel is by looking for the Top Tier™ certification. This standard was developed by major automakers like BMW, Honda, Toyota, and General Motors to promote cleaner-burning gasoline. It requires higher levels of detergent additives than the minimum set by the EPA.
Top Tier fuels help reduce carbon buildup in the engine, which can:
- Improve fuel economy
- Reduce emissions
- Maintain engine performance over time
You can find a list of approved Top Tier retailers on the official Top Tier Gasoline website.
Gas Station Brands That Meet Top Tier Standards
These brands are among the most widely available and consistently meet or exceed Top Tier fuel quality requirements:
- Chevron – Uses proprietary Techron detergent additive
- Shell – Includes Nitrogen Enriched Cleaning System
- Exxon & Mobil – Provide Synergy-branded fuels with advanced detergents
- BP – Offers Invigorate, a detergent additive designed to clean and protect
- Costco – All fuel sold at Costco is Top Tier certified
Other Top Tier stations include 76, Phillips 66, Sunoco, and many regional retailers like Kwik Trip and QuikTrip.
Does Top Tier Fuel Cost More?
Surprisingly, no. In many cases, Top Tier brands are competitively priced and may even be cheaper than lower-quality options nearby. According to research, using Top Tier fuel can save you money long-term by preventing costly repairs from engine deposits.
How to Save on Top Tier Brands
To get the most out of higher-quality fuel, pair your fill-ups with digital tools that reward you for each purchase. For example, you can earn cashback with a Chevron gift card or get rewards with a Shell gift card by purchasing through Fluz. These gift cards are available instantly, can be used on the spot, and stack with loyalty programs at participating stations.
You can also link your purchase to loyalty programs like:
Bottom Line: Don’t Settle for Bare Minimum Fuel Standards
Choosing a Top Tier gas brand protects your engine, supports better performance, and doesn’t have to cost more—especially if you’re stacking loyalty perks and digital cashback options. Even a slight bump in detergent quality can result in smoother operation and long-term fuel system health.
Next time you pull into a station, look for the Top Tier logo. Your engine—and your wallet—will thank you.
