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Shell vs Chevron: Does It Even Make a Difference?

Have you ever wondered if there’s a difference between Chevron and Shell Gasoline? Many of us choose our station based on distance or price.

However, going to just any gas station may not be wise when it comes to finding the best fuel for your vehicle.

We feel you should know more about gasoline, such as octane levels and fuel additives, and why they make a difference in your car’s performance.

So buckle up as we cruise the news for the best solution.

Let’s go!

Is There a Difference in Gas From Shell or Chevron?

Many gas stations get their fuel from the same refineries. This means that the formula is the same at most pumps. 

However, some companies, including Shell, and Chevron, put additives in their fuel to improve efficiency in motor vehicles. These additives can also increase the lifespan of your car’s engine.

An analysis by AAA reveals that gas with detergent additives can help your engine run more smoothly. But they aren’t created equally.

In short, both brands are equally good when it comes to quality. Considering that both Shell and Chevron are branded as top tier, it’s easy to conclude that their gas meets the required performance standards.

However, the companies use their detergents differently. All Chevron grades have these additives, while Shell only uses them in premium gas.

Pro Tip: Make sure you never commit any of these 7 Deadly Sins of Gas Stations.

Man refilling car with gas
Fill up at Shell for only premium gas.

Shell V Power vs Chevron Techron

You’ve probably heard of both V Power and Techron. But what do they do and which one is better?

Well, it depends on who you ask. While some swear by Shell, others prefer Chevron.

Although there’s no clear consensus, both additives effectively clean engines and protect them from corrosion.

The main difference for the consumer is that Chevron adds Techron to all of their gasoline, while Shell only uses V- Power Nitro + in their premium fuel. Both formulas have their pros and cons.

The benefits to using Techron are that it can help clean your engine and remove deposits, improving performance and fuel economy. It can also help reduce emissions and keep your engine running smoothly.

Conversely, V-power gas has a higher fuel quality than other types of gasoline. However, it’s only available for vehicles that require premium fuel.

What is Top Tier Gasoline?

Not all gasoline is created equal. There’s plain old regular, and then there’s gasoline that meets a higher standard. The difference between the two is significant. Companies treat top-tier gas to reduce carbon deposits by adding specific detergents. 

Testing by AAA revealed that it’s wise for consumers to factor in the quality of the gasoline when choosing a brand, even if it costs a little more.

Gasoline is refined from crude oil, transported to central terminals, and held in large containers before being purchased by various gas retailers. Though it’s treated with antioxidants and some detergents, the fuel in these enormous tanks is essentially the same.

Once purchased, companies supplement the fuel with proprietary detergent additives that make it different than competing products. 

Top Tier standards and fuel additives are unique blends that meet strict requirements and can help your car run better and pollute less.

Woman putting gas into her car
Keep in mind while filling up that Chevron gas puts additives in their fuel.

Shell vs Chevron: Who Has The Better Rewards Program?

There’s an old saying that you can’t get something for nothing. But rewards cards seem to disprove this. With rewards, you fill up your tank and rack up points. Then you can use those points on free stuff, cashback, or more gas.

Let’s compare the rewards programs offered by these two oil companies. 

Shell’s rewards program lets you link your credit card to your Shell rewards card. This saves you $0.05 per gallon on each fill-up. Additionally, you can earn savings of $0.10 per gallon for every $50 spent at participating restaurants. 

The gas rewards at Chevron are available by downloading the free app and linking an approved credit card. You can also use PayPal or Venmo. In addition, if you have a grocery store rewards program, including Albertson’s, you can link your rewards ID in the app. 

And if you have a Chevron credit card, you can earn up to $0.47 per gallon. Merchants that accept Visa also offer these savings.

Overall, Shell gets a better rating.

Do Certain Vehicles Require Specific Fuel?

Regarding gas for your car, it’s not about which octane is the best but which octane your vehicle requires. 

Octane rating measures a fuel’s ability to minimize engine knocking during combustion. 

There are many different types of fuel. And you need to know which pump to use before filling up. Using the wrong gasoline can create severe engine damage and require expensive repairs. 

Generally, regular fuel is 87 octane, while premium is 91 or 93. Midgrade is somewhere in the middle, often 89.

Check the owner’s manual to determine the minimum octane rating for your vehicle. Cars that require premium fuel will usually say so on or near the gas cap and sometimes by the fuel gauge. 

Additionally, there are no benefits to putting premium gas in a car that doesn’t need it.

Pro Tip: Join the gas station food debate to decide who is better, Wawa vs Buc-ee’s: The Best Gas Station in America.

Close-up of refuelling gas at petrol station.
Depending on your vehicle model, it might be better to pay to put premium gas in your tank.

Is There a Difference Between Shell or Chevron Diesel Fuel?

To meet EPA regulations, most diesel fuel sold is ultra-low sulfur diesel. These must be within a specified cetane range and contain additives to improve lubrication. Diesel fuel used in cold-weather areas is blended to keep it from waxing and clogging filters. 

Unfortunately, Chevron does not disclose what they use in these additives or if there are any differences in performance. 

On the other hand, Shell enhances their diesel fuel with its proprietary DYNAFLEX Technology. Dubbed V-Power Diesel, it’s formulated to aid performance by eliminating debris from engine components. The result is a more responsive motor.

Your truck should perform satisfactorily with any of these products, and any differences may be negligible. It’s up to you to decide if brand names are important to you.

The Difference Is In the Eyes of the Fueler

No one ever says fuel prices are too low, but paying slightly more for a specific gas brand can save money by keeping your car healthy. 

Regarding gas for your car, it’s not about which octane is the best but which octane your vehicle requires. If you use 87 octane, Shell won’t be your best bet for top-tier gasoline since they only use additives in their premium petrol. Chevron uses its Techron detergent in all grades to benefit all vehicles.

So, Shell vs Chevron? The conclusion is that they’re both top-tier providers and measured with the same guidelines and regulations. The choice is really up to you.

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