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Can I use 87 gas in an Acura RDX?

The short answer is no, you should not use 87 octane gasoline in an Acura RDX. Acura recommends using premium 91 octane or higher fuel in the RDX to ensure optimal engine performance and prevent potential damage.


Understanding Octane Ratings and Fuel Requirements


Octane rating is a measure of a fuel's resistance to premature ignition, also known as "knocking" or "pinging." Higher octane fuels can withstand higher compression and temperatures before igniting, making them better suited for high-performance engines that operate at higher pressures.


The Acura RDX is equipped with a turbocharged engine that requires higher octane fuel to prevent knocking and ensure proper combustion. Using a lower octane fuel like 87 can lead to engine knocking, reduced power, and potentially cause long-term damage to the engine over time.


Consequences of Using 87 Octane in an Acura RDX



  • Engine knocking and pinging, which can cause damage to engine components

  • Reduced power and acceleration

  • Decreased fuel efficiency

  • Potential long-term engine damage if used consistently


To maintain the performance, efficiency, and longevity of your Acura RDX, it's essential to follow the manufacturer's recommended fuel requirements and use premium 91 octane or higher gasoline.


Conclusion


In summary, using 87 octane gasoline in an Acura RDX is not recommended and can lead to various issues, including engine knocking, reduced power, and potential long-term damage. For the best performance and protection of your Acura RDX, always use the premium fuel specified by the manufacturer.

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.



Does it matter if you use 87 or 89 gas?


No Vehicles Need 89-Octane Fuel
Even then, it's not required, only recommended. Using 87-octane fuel in any of them won't harm the powertrain. At worst, it could cause the engine computer to slow the ignition timing a bit or adjust the fuel injection, potentially lowering fuel economy or performance.



Will regular gas damage a premium engine?


Should I use regular or premium gas? You should use the type of fuel the vehicle's manufacturer recommends. A vehicle that runs on regular gas will not run any better on premium fuel. Using premium gas in a vehicle designed for premium gas will help the car perform better and avoid damaging the engine with regular gas.



What if I accidentally put 87 instead of 91?


In a best-case scenario, your car will be fine, but your engine will run less efficiently and the amount of mileage you get per gallon will suffer. This is why it will not actually save you money to put “cheap” gas in a car that requires a more expensive option.



Does the 2024 Acura RDX take regular gas?


The Acura MDX, RDX, TLX, RLX, and ILX all run more efficiently on premium gas, but you can use regular gas if you need to.



What type of gas for Acura RDX?


Premium unleaded 91 octane fuel
If you're the proud owner of a new Acura sedan or SUV, Premium unleaded 91 octane fuel is required to make it run – and recommended for the following Acura models: Acura Integra. Acura TLX. Acura RDX.



What happens if I put 87 octane in my car?


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.



How bad is it to put regular gas instead of premium?


If you fill up such a vehicle with regular fuel, you may indeed be voiding a warranty. This will most often come into play if substituting regular for premium leads to significant engine knock or pinging that causes damage to the pistons or other engine components.



Can you put 87 gas in an Acura RDX?


Do All Acuras Require Premium Gas? Like we stated, premium gas is only recommended on the MDX, RDX, TLX, RLX, and ILX Acura models. You'll be safe on our Cherry Hill roads using regular gas in these automobiles.



What is the best fuel for Acura RDX?


premium gas
For models like the RDX, MDX, TLX, RLX, and ILX, premium gas is recommended. So, does Acura require premium gas? Only some models, not all — our service department recommends using higher octane gas in Acura for a few reasons.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.