AAA: American Drivers Wasted $2.1 Billion By Using Premium Gas

GARDEN CITY, N.Y. (CBSNewYork) -- Americans wasted $2.1 billion last year by pumping their cars with premium gasoline even though their vehicles didn't need it, according to a new study from the AAA.

The automotive association study claims 16.5 million drivers used premium gasoline in vehicles built to run on regular fuel, in over 270 million instances.

According to the AAA, 70 percent of licensed drivers own a vehicle that runs on regular gasoline. Only 16 percent of drivers own vehicles that require premium fuel.

Premium fuel, or 93-octane fuel, is only recommended for specific vehicles whose engines cannot reap the benefits of regular 87-octane gasoline. According to the AAA, studies have shown 93-octane gas does not provide improved results in cars that do not specifically require the fuel.

The AAA urges drivers to check recommendations from their vehicle's manufacturer before heading to the pump.