Can you use regular gas in an Acura Integra?
The Acura Integra is a beloved vehicle known for its performance, reliability, and sporty design. However, when it comes to fueling your Integra, many owners wonder whether they can use regular gas instead of premium. In this article, we’ll explore the implications of using regular gas in an Acura Integra and provide guidance to help you make the best decision for your car.
Understanding Acura Integra's Fuel Requirements
The Acura Integra, particularly in its high-performance trims, is designed to deliver optimal performance with premium gasoline. Premium gas typically has a higher octane rating (91 or higher), which helps prevent engine knocking in high-compression engines like those found in many Acura models. Using the recommended fuel ensures that your engine runs smoothly and efficiently.
Can You Use Regular Gas?
Technically, you can use regular gas (87 octane) in an Acura Integra, but it is not recommended. Here’s why:
- Engine Performance: Regular gas may cause knocking or pinging in high-compression engines, which can lead to reduced performance and efficiency.
- Long-Term Damage: Prolonged use of regular gas in an engine designed for premium fuel can cause damage to internal components, potentially leading to costly repairs.
- Fuel Economy: Premium gas allows the engine to operate at its intended efficiency, which can result in better fuel economy compared to regular gas.
What Happens If You Use Regular Gas by Mistake?
If you accidentally fill your Acura Integra with regular gas, don’t panic. Modern engines are equipped with knock sensors that adjust the engine’s timing to prevent damage. However, you may notice a slight decrease in performance and fuel efficiency until your next fill-up with premium gas. It’s best to return to using premium fuel as soon as possible to maintain your vehicle’s performance and longevity.
Conclusion
While it is possible to use regular gas in an Acura Integra, it is not advisable. Premium gas is specifically recommended to ensure optimal performance, fuel efficiency, and engine health. If you want to keep your Integra running smoothly for years to come, stick to the manufacturer’s fuel recommendations. When in doubt, consult your owner’s manual or reach out to a trusted auto service professional for advice.
At Kevin’s Autos, we’re here to help with all your car maintenance and repair needs. Whether you have questions about fuel types or need a tune-up, our experienced team is ready to assist. Contact us today to keep your Acura Integra in top shape!
Frequently Asked Questions
What fuel does the Honda Integra take?
Premium Unleaded 91 Octane Gasoline
The 2025 Acura Integra offers impressive fuel efficiency with its various trims and transmission options.
What happens if I put 87 in my Acura?
An Acura spokesperson referred us to the TLX's owner's manual, which states, “Use of lower-octane gasoline can cause occasional metallic knocking noise in the engine and will result in decreased engine performance.”
Is it OK to use regular gas?
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.
Are Acura Integras good on gas?
The new Acura Integra gets the best Acura gas mileage among sedans, delivering up to an EPA-estimated 30/37 MPG (City/Highway). The Acura TLX is the second most efficient Acura car, scoring up to an EPA-estimated 22/31 MPG (City/Highway).
What happens if you mix 87 and 91 gas?
Yes, drivers can mix the two types of fuel. The combined gas types will result in an octane level somewhere in the middle — something the vehicle “will survive,” according to The Drive.
What happens if I accidentally put regular gas in my Acura?
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.
Will regular gas damage a premium engine?
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. Aside from those complications, you could also experience a decrease in fuel efficiency and overall engine performance.
Can I mix regular and premium gas?
There's nothing wrong with mixing premium and regular gas in the same tank. In fact, this is how midgrade gas is formulated at the station. Rather than drawing from a separate storage tank for each octane rating, gas pumps actively mix high-octane fuel with lower-octane fuel to create midgrade gas.
Can my Acura take regular 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!
Can Acura Integra take regular gas?
Acura Integra: Premium unleaded 91-octane fuel recommended.
