Can you put 87 gas in an Acura RDX?

No. The Acura RDX, especially with its turbocharged 2.0-liter engine, is designed to run on premium gasoline with an octane rating of 91 AKI (or higher). Using 87 octane is not recommended and can lead to reduced performance, and over time may contribute to knocking or other engine concerns.

Octane requirements for the Acura RDX

Across recent model years, Acura has clarified that the RDX’s turbocharged engine requires premium unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 91 AKI or higher. This specification helps the engine operate as designed, delivering the expected power, efficiency, and smoothness. While your vehicle may run on lower-octane fuel in an emergency, it is not the intended fuel for routine use and can trigger reduced performance or timing adjustments by the engine control unit.

Here's a concise summary of the key guidance you should follow when fueling the RDX:

• Premium gasoline is recommended: 91 AKI (or higher) for the turbocharged 2.0-liter engine.


• Regular 87 octane is not recommended for everyday driving and can cause knocking under load, reduced power, and lower efficiency.


• Using higher-octane fuels (93 or higher) is acceptable and may offer marginal performance or smoothness benefits, but always follow the manual’s stated minimum.


• Always consult your specific model year manual, as guidelines can vary slightly by year or trim.

In practice, sticking to the manufacturer’s octane recommendation helps preserve performance, fuel economy, and engine longevity.

Guidance if you accidentally fill with 87 octane

If you accidentally fuel with regular 87 octane, take these steps to minimize potential issues and get back to optimal operation as soon as possible:

1. Refuel at the next opportunity with premium (91 AKI or higher) to restore the engine’s designed operating conditions.


2. Avoid aggressive driving or high-load situations (hills, towing, hard accelerations) until you’ve returned to premium fuel for a while and the system has stabilized.


3. Pay attention for signs of knocking or pinging, abnormal engine noises, or a deterioration in performance. If you notice any of these, have the vehicle inspected by a dealer or qualified technician.


4. Consult the owner’s manual for the exact octane specification for your model year, and follow any model-year-specific recommendations from Acura.

Following these steps helps protect the turbocharged RDX engine and ensures it operates as intended when you return to premium fuel.

Summary

For the Acura RDX, especially with the turbocharged engine, premium fuel with an octane rating of 91 AKI or higher is the recommended specification. Regular 87 octane is not advised for routine use and can undermine performance or cause knocking under certain driving conditions. If 87 is accidentally used, refuel with premium at the next fill and drive conservatively until the engine returns to its normal operating conditions. Always refer to the owner’s manual for your specific year and trim to confirm the exact octane guidance.

Can I put 87 in my Acura?

Use Premium Gas for High Octane Performance
If you want to experience the full performance potential of your new Acura, it's best to opt for premium gas. Your luxury vehicle is still able to run on lower-octane or regular gas, but with this type of fuel, you won't be able to see all that it can do.

Is it okay to use regular gas in an Acura RDX?

No, an Acura RDX is not designed to take regular gas; it is highly recommended to use premium gasoline for optimal performance, efficiency, and longevity. While the engine can run on regular fuel, it will do so less efficiently, potentially leading to reduced horsepower, lower fuel economy, and engine knocking. Using premium fuel ensures the engine runs smoothly as it is designed to. 
What to do if you've been using regular gas

• You can switch to premium fuel, and the engine computer will adjust to accommodate the change.
• It is best to stick with one type of fuel once you make the switch.
• Using regular gas in the long term can cause deposits to build up and potentially damage the engine over time. 

Why premium is recommended

• Acura's turbocharged engines require higher octane fuel for peak performance. 
• Premium fuel prevents pre-ignition, which can cause engine knocking and rattling. 
• Premium fuel will result in better fuel economy and longevity for your engine. 

What year of Acura RDX to stay away from?

The Acura RDX years to avoid are generally the 2015, 2019, and 2021 models due to significant issues. The 2019 is often cited as the worst, especially the first model year of the third generation, with problems like engine stalling and power loss. Other years with notable problems include the 2013, 2014, and 2018. 
This video discusses common problems with the Acura RDX, including potential engine, transmission, and electrical issues: 59sHey, ask your dadYouTube · May 24, 2025
Years to be cautious about

• 2013-2015: These years can have transmission issues like rough shifting and slipping, and some models may have engine oil leaks. 
• 2015: In addition to transmission problems, this model year had issues with airbags and the soy-based wiring insulation attracted animals. 
• 2018: Reported transmission problems and potential engine issues like head gasket or timing chain problems have been noted. 
• 2019: This is widely considered the least reliable model year, particularly because it was the first year of a new generation. Owners have reported engine stalling, power loss, and issues with the rear glass shattering. 
• 2021: This year experienced issues with the transmission, brakes, and engine stalling due to a potential intercooler design flaw that could let moisture into the engine. 

What to do if buying used

• Thoroughly inspect any used model for the specific issues mentioned above. 
• If considering one of these years, have a trusted mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection. 
• Check for service records and recall history. 

This video demonstrates how to inspect an Acura RDX for potential issues, including engine oil leaks and suspension problems: 58sBCauto_YouTube · Aug 21, 2024

Is it okay to use 87 octane instead of 91?

It is generally okay to use 87 octane instead of 91 for a single fill-up, but it's best to avoid it if your car requires 91 octane, as this could lead to reduced performance and, in the long term, potential engine damage. Most modern cars with knock sensors can adjust for lower octane fuel by retarding the timing, but this results in less horsepower and fuel efficiency. If your car's manual recommends 91 octane, consistently using 87 could void your warranty. 
For a one-time mistake

• Don't worry about immediate damage; your modern car's computer will compensate by reducing engine performance. 
• You may notice a decrease in power or acceleration. 
• Top off the tank with the recommended 91 octane when you can to mix the grades. 

For consistent use

• Check your owner's manual: If it says premium is "recommended" but not "required," using 87 is likely fine, though you may see a slight performance decrease. If it says "required," you should stick to 91. 
• Avoid if you tow or live in a hot climate: In these situations, the engine works harder and is more susceptible to detonation, so using the recommended octane is more important. 
• Monitor your engine: Listen for knocking or pinging sounds, which indicate pre-ignition. If you hear these noises, switch back to 91 immediately. 

What to consider

• Warranty: Consistently using a lower-octane fuel than recommended could void your warranty, especially if damage occurs. 
• Performance and efficiency: You will likely get worse fuel economy and experience a reduction in horsepower.