Can an Acura TSX use regular gas?
Yes, an Acura TSX can use regular gasoline, but the manufacturer recommends using premium fuel for optimal performance and fuel efficiency. The Acura TSX is designed to run on 91-octane or higher premium gasoline, but it can also operate on 87-octane regular gas without any major issues.
Acura TSX Fuel Recommendations
According to the Acura owner's manual, the recommended fuel for the Acura TSX is premium gasoline with a minimum octane rating of 91. This is the fuel that Acura engineers have determined will provide the best balance of power, efficiency, and engine protection for the TSX.
However, the manual also states that regular 87-octane gasoline can be used in the Acura TSX if premium fuel is not available. Using regular gas will not damage the engine, but it may result in a slight decrease in power, fuel economy, and engine performance compared to premium fuel.
Potential Impacts of Using Regular Gas
- Power and Acceleration: The Acura TSX's engine is designed to take full advantage of the higher octane rating in premium fuel. Using regular gas may result in a noticeable reduction in power and acceleration, especially during high-demand situations like passing or merging.
- Fuel Efficiency: Premium fuel typically provides better fuel economy than regular gas, so you may see a slight decrease in miles per gallon when using 87-octane fuel.
- Engine Knock and Pinging: The higher compression engine in the Acura TSX is more susceptible to engine knock or pinging when using lower-octane regular gas, especially under heavy load or at high RPMs.
While it is possible to use regular gas in the Acura TSX, the manufacturer strongly recommends using premium fuel for the best performance, fuel efficiency, and long-term engine health. Using the recommended premium fuel will help ensure your Acura TSX runs at its optimal level.
What Acura does not require premium gas?
The majority of the Acura lineup can safely use regular gasoline in a pinch, but there are good reasons to opt for premium anyway. The only model that requires the upgrade is the Acura NSX. But, premium is recommended for the MDX, RDX, TLX, RLX, and ILX. Find out why with Rallye Acura in Roslyn!
What gas does a 2012 Acura TSX take?
Premium Unleaded
Can you put 87 in an Acura TSX?
Although your Acura can operate effectively with regular gas, you won't be able to take full advantage of your vehicle's performance capabilities.
What happens if you don't use premium?
Using regular unleaded gas in a car that requires premium fuel reduces engine performance and can cause damage over time. Using premium does not increase fuel economy, so don't waste money using high-test in a car if the manufacturer recommends regular gas.
What happens if you put regular gas instead of 93?
The higher an octane number, the more stable the fuel. If your vehicle requires an octane level of 93, using a lower-grade fuel can potentially cause knocking that can damage your engine.
What happens if I put regular gas in my Acura?
When you fill your Acura's fuel tank with a lower octane level than is recommended, you'll experience pre-ignition (also known as engine knocking). Pre-ignition negatively affects your fuel economy and can damage your pistons or cylinder walls over time.
Is it okay to put regular gas in a premium car?
If your car requires premium to run smoothly, but you aren't able to find a station with premium gasoline, it won't hurt to top off with regular gasoline. You do want to avoid running on regular gasoline for extended periods of time.
Does an Acura TSX need premium gas?
While your Acura vehicle will run fine on regular gasoline, using the recommended premium unleaded 91-octane fuel is sure to boost performance, increase longevity, and keep your Acura running as it should – providing you with the peace of mind you've been seeking.
Does the Acura TSX require premium gas on Reddit?
No, the engine is designed to be run in a minimum of 91 octane, ethanol free if you can find it.
What happens if I accidentally put 87 instead of 91?
If you put lower-octane fuel into your high-octane vehicle, whether by mistake or to save money on gas, you'll probably notice the effects right away: things like poor fuel economy, reduced acceleration, and spark knock, which sounds like a high-pitched pinging or rattling noise.
