Hey everyone, I’m new to turbocharged engines and wanted to hear from experienced Ecoboost owners. The dealership told me I can run 87 octane with no issues, but I’ve always heard that turbos need premium fuel. Is that still true, or is regular fine? Thanks in advance!
My manual says to use premium when towing.
Caden said:
My manual says to use premium when towing.
That makes sense. What about when you’re not towing? They don’t give out paper manuals anymore, and I haven’t downloaded mine yet.
@Parker
If you’re not towing, it’s just personal preference. Premium gives slightly better fuel economy and horsepower, but it costs more. I use premium since I don’t drive as much these days and like having the extra power.
@Parker
Not sure about newer models, but my ‘14 says 91 (premium) in the manual.
Pretty much what everyone else is saying. Also, CHANGE THE OIL MORE OFTEN THAN FORD RECOMMENDS.
Regular is fine and will be the cheapest option overall. Premium gives more horsepower and slightly better fuel economy, but since it costs more per gallon, it evens out in terms of cost per mile.
87 is perfectly fine for everyday driving. On regular, the engine makes about 375 HP. If you’re towing, switch to premium to get the full 400 HP, but avoid high ethanol fuels like E85 or E88.
I run E15 (88 octane) since it’s a bit cheaper and I’ve never had any issues in my ‘15 3.5 Ecoboost. Unless they changed the specs, these engines aren’t made for E85.
Xen said:
I run E15 (88 octane) since it’s a bit cheaper and I’ve never had any issues in my ‘15 3.5 Ecoboost. Unless they changed the specs, these engines aren’t made for E85.
For a second, I thought you had a supercharged 3.5… then I realized you meant SuperCrew!
I use premium when towing and during the summer. In the winter, I’m less concerned about pre-ignition. If you like flooring it for fun, premium is better. The truck can adjust timing for regular, but it clearly prefers higher octane for performance, fuel economy, and knock control.
@Blaine
Same. From mid-April to late October, I run 93 because of the heat and towing. November through March, I switch to 87.
I always run 93 in my ‘18 Lariat, towing or not. The better performance is worth it. I buy from Costco or Sam’s Club, so I’m only paying about 10-20 cents more per gallon than regular at places like Shell or Chevron. If you use regular, make sure it’s a top-tier fuel.
I have a ‘13 Ecoboost, and the manual says 87 is fine, but I use premium when towing.
I just run 87 since I don’t tow. I’ve tried 93 a few times and didn’t notice a difference. I don’t plan on keeping the truck past the warranty period, so that might influence my decision (though I do take care of it for the next owner).
87 is the minimum recommended for daily driving. Premium is recommended for towing to reduce detonation risk from higher temperatures and loads. Higher octane doesn’t create more power—it prevents knocking. A stock truck won’t make more power just from using premium. Unless you’ve tuned it for higher boost or timing, premium isn’t necessary. If money isn’t an issue, go for it.
@Clarke
Actually, you will see a power difference. Not because premium has more energy, but because the engine can advance timing further without knocking.
I only run 91 or better. No issues so far, and I’m at 80,000 miles.
Premium gets better mileage, but not enough to offset the cost. It’s mainly for max towing performance.
You can run 87, and the PCM will adjust timing to compensate. It’ll also take advantage of premium fuel if you use it. Ford’s horsepower ratings are based on premium, so for full power, run higher octane. 87 won’t hurt longevity.
For towing, use the highest octane available.