Costco Gas vs. Chevron: Is Chevron Really Better?
Although gasoline is regulated by multiple agencies in the United States, gasoline can vary from supplier to supplier in many ways. The main difference between the different types of gasoline is the type and amount of additives they are mixed with the gasoline produced.
The main additive in most gasolines is detergent. This prevents your vehicle from becoming clogged with carbon residue, which reduces fuel efficiency. After decades of experimenting with fuel cleaners, major auto companies have begun developing names for high-quality fuel additives.
Costco Natural Gas qualifies for the “Top” designation. Top gasoline is recognized as the standard for cleaners and additives by major automakers such as BMW, GM, Ford, and others. Chevron Natural Gas also qualifies as the top tier. Costco’s gasoline isn’t much different than Chevron’s.
Costco Gas vs. Chevron
Since both Costco and Chevron gasoline are considered top-tier gasoline, there is not much difference in quality. Costco gas is more budget friendly thanks to their membership program, but it doesn’t cut corners on quality.
If you have a Costco membership, it’s wise to take advantage of their gas prices as you can earn more.
Is Costco low quality gas?
In many areas, Costco gas is often cheaper than gas available at other gas stations. Some might conclude that Costco’s natural gas is of lower quality and therefore less expensive. However, the gas at Costco is usually the same or better than the gas at other gas stations.
Costco’s gas quality is not low. Gasoline sold at Costco is eligible for the top fuel designation and is generally cheaper than gasoline sold at other gas stations.
If you want to refuel at a nearby Costco location, it’s best to go when the warehouse itself is not open. Typically, Costco gas stations open earlier and close later than warehouses, so you can avoid the crowds by choosing earlier or later according to your convenience.
Read: Can you use someone else’s Costco card?
Does Chevron really have better gasoline?
Like many gasoline suppliers, Chevron claims their gasoline is higher quality and cleaner than other types of gasoline. They claim their specially formulated additive (called “Techron”) is cleaner and better for your car than other gasoline brands.
Chevron doesn’t have better gasoline than other suppliers. Although their customer satisfaction is higher than other brands, the gasoline composition is strictly regulated and the gasoline is nearly the same wherever you go.
In short, as long as you’re not buying pirated gasoline from a truck you’ve stolen from the side of the road, different brands of gasoline won’t make much difference to your vehicle’s efficiency or cleanliness.
What is the difference between Costco Gas and regular Gas?
Most gas stations get their fuel supplies from a common shared source. This is usually done by truck or pipeline through logistics and fuel supply companies. The difference in the quality of fuel between different brands is mainly determined by the additives mixed in the gasoline.
The difference between Costco gasoline and regular gasoline is that Costco sells Kirkland Signature gasoline. Kirkland Signature gasoline contains five times as much detergent as regular and premium gasoline.
Like other gasoline brands, Kirkland Signature gasoline sold by Costco is certified to meet top fuel additive standards. This is in line with other gasoline suppliers such as Chevron.
Want to learn more about Costco? Check out these related posts to find out when Costco restocks, does Costco accept coupons, and does Costco accept EBT?
final thoughts
The composition of gasoline in the United States is strictly regulated. Gas suppliers must add a certain amount of detergent to the fuel to regulate carbon deposits and other problems that can occur in vehicle engines over time. Both Costco and Chevron gasoline meet or exceed these requirements.
In addition, major automakers also certify certain types of gasoline as “top-tier” gasoline. The designation applies to the fuels these manufacturers recommend for their vehicles. Both Costco and Chevron’s natural gas qualify for the “top-of-the-line” designation.
If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to ask them in the comments section.
