With gasoline prices fluctuating, keep this in mind the next time you visit the pump: not all gasoline is created equal, and where you fill up will affect your wallet and the performance of your engine.

And we’re not talking about octane here.

Consumer Reports tells you what type of gasoline to look for and how to get the most out of each tank of gas and save money.

Whether you’re taking a summer road trip, commuting to work, or just running errands, you want your car to be up to date.

According to auto experts at Consumer Reports, it all starts at the gas pump.

Next, when choosing a gas station, CR recommends using top-tier gasoline.

Jeff Bartlett works in Consumer Reports’ Auto Test Center, where more than fifty cars, trucks and SUVs are purchased, tested and rated each year.

So CR consumes a lot of gas!

Higher standards apply to top tier gas due to the voluntary agreement between the major gas brands.

You can find it at Exxon, Mobil, Chevron, Shell and Costco gas stations.

AAA analyzed top-tier gasoline and found that it provides better protection for newer engines against carbon deposits and intake valve buildup.

What does this mean for you? Better performance and lower fuel consumption.

When a brand offers Top Tier, it does so for all grades and octane levels, not just specific versions.

Top-tier gasoline may cost a little more than discount brand fuel, but research suggests it’s a smart investment.

To save money, consult your owner’s manual: Skip it unless it REQUIRES premium fuel. Here are a few more rules to get the most out of your tank: Stick to half or more.

When traveling by car, make sure your gas tank is half full.

You never know if you’ll encounter congested roads or slow-moving traffic.

Check prices online. Apps and websites like GasBuddy display local gas prices, making it easy to find the best prices near you or while traveling.

In addition, prices tend to be cheaper at petrol stations away from main roads and city centres, as well as in hypermarkets and some large travel centres.

Finally, obey speed limits and drive slowly. Your driving habits can significantly affect your gas mileage, which in turn costs you money.

Remember to check your tire pressure. Tires with lower pressure than the pressure recommended on your door jamb sticker can affect performance, tire life, and fuel economy, as well as pose a safety hazard.