Sorry, if you paid for premium gas in New York, you probably got something of lower quality. Nearly every location in NYC has replaced premium fuel with regular blends. So, drivers have been overpaying due to the wrong octane label, risking long-term engine damage. 

Drivers pay for premium fuel but get regular at New York City gas stations 

Drivers in New York City aren’t getting the fuel they pay for at gas stations. A report by the Department of Consumer and Worker Protection shows that almost every gas station in NYC has failed at least one fuel inspection during the past two years. 

The most common problem is not selling the grade of octane that’s advertised at the pump. Incorrect signage displays premium fuel while drivers actually get a mid-grade blend. Incorrect pump blends, bad diesel, and displaying the wrong pricing are also common issues. 

So, while people are overpaying for gas, thinking they’re getting premium fuel, they’re also putting their engines at risk. The wrong octane level could lead to long-term engine problems. 

According to The City, the incorrect octane level causes premature wear and could blow the engine apart. As engine pistons travel up and down the cylinder, they run on perfectly timed explosions at the top of the cycle. 

Different octane levels change the timing. If the rating is too low, the gas detonates before reaching the top, forcing it backwards. Also, if it’s too high, the piston fires late, leaving unburned gas that damages the catalytic converter. 

Owners may be filling their storage tanks with the wrong product to cheat customers by putting lower-grade fuel in the higher-priced tanks. 

Drivers have noticed that after filling up at some stations, their check engine light comes on and the acceleration pedal vibrates. Then the engine knocks. But intentionally selling the wrong gas is illegal.