Can you put 87 gas in a Acura?
Yes, you can typically use 87-octane gasoline in many Acura models, but some engines—especially turbocharged or high‑compression variants—benefit from or require premium fuel (91–93 octane). Always verify the exact requirement for your specific model and year in the owner's manual or on the fuel-filler door sticker.
Understanding octane requirements by Acura model
What to expect by engine type
Fuel requirements vary across the lineup, and understanding your engine type helps prevent knock and performance loss.
- Naturally aspirated engines in many base models often can run on 87 octane, though some newer or higher-output variants may still benefit from higher-octane fuel.
- Turbocharged and higher-compression engines commonly require or strongly benefit from premium gasoline (91–93 octane). Using 87 can reduce power or trigger engine-knock mitigation in some cases.
- High-performance variants (such as sport-oriented or Type S models) generally require premium gasoline to maintain peak performance and engine health.
Engine octane needs are model- and year-specific. Always check your owner's manual or the fuel door sticker to be sure which octane your Acura calls for.
What to do if you accidentally fill with 87 gasoline
Practical steps to minimize risk
If you accidentally fill a model that requires higher-octane fuel with 87, consider the following guidance to protect performance and longevity.
- Do not repeatedly fill with 87 if your manual specifies premium; switch to the recommended octane on the next tank.
- If you notice knocking, pinging, reduced power, or rough running, avoid aggressive driving and refuel with the recommended octane as soon as possible.
- Run only as much 87 as necessary for a short distance, then return to the recommended octane to restore optimal performance.
- In some cases, a single incorrect fill will not cause lasting damage, but continual use of the wrong octane can impact efficiency and engine health over time.
In short, using 87 in a model that requires higher octane can degrade performance and may trigger protective timing adjustments. Correcting to the recommended octane at the next fill is advisable.
How to verify octane requirements for your Acura
Reliable sources to check
The safest way to know your Acura’s octane needs is to consult official sources tied to your exact vehicle. Here are the most reliable places to look:
- Owner’s manual for the specific model year and engine option.
- Fuel-filler door sticker, which typically lists minimum or recommended octane.
- ACURA official website or AcuraLink account for VIN-specific documentation.
- Your local dealer service department if you’re unsure after checking manuals and stickers.
By confirming the exact octane requirement, you can ensure your engine runs as designed and preserves performance and longevity.
Summary
Most Acura models can tolerate regular 87-octane gasoline, but turbocharged, high-compression, and high-performance variants typically require premium fuel (91–93 octane) for optimal performance. Always verify the engine-specific octane requirement in the owner's manual or on the fuel door sticker, and use the recommended octane to protect engine health and maintain peak performance.
