Does a 2010 Acura TL require premium gas?
The 2010 Acura TL is designed to run best on premium gasoline (91 octane or higher) to preserve its performance and smooth operation. Regular gasoline is not recommended for normal driving and may lead to reduced power and efficiency.
What the manual and manufacturer guidance say
The TL’s owner’s manual and Acura guidance specify premium unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 91 or higher as the preferred fuel. This aligns with the vehicle’s performance-oriented design and high-compression V6 engine. Using regular 87-octane gasoline can result in noticeable power loss and less responsive throttle, especially during aggressive driving or hot-weather conditions.
Before the following list, here are the key takeaways from official guidance:
- Preferred fuel: Premium unleaded gasoline, octane 91 or higher.
- Regular gasoline: Not recommended for normal operation; may reduce engine performance and efficiency.
- Knock risk: Lower-octane fuel can cause knocking under load, which the engine’s systems may mitigate but at the cost of performance.
Conclusion: Following Acura’s guidance helps preserve the TL’s designed performance and longevity; premium fuel is the standard recommendation for this model year.
Practical driving considerations
In everyday driving, the difference between premium and regular is most noticeable during spirited acceleration, towing scenarios, or hot ambient temperatures. The manufacturer-approved fuel supports the engine’s horsepower, throttle response, and overall reliability, while premium fuel can contribute to more consistent performance and efficiency.
- Performance and responsiveness: Premium fuel supports the engine’s intended horsepower and smooth throttle response.
- Fuel economy: Real-world economy may be similar under light, steady driving, but regular can reduce performance under heavy load or in warm conditions.
- Maintenance and reliability: Regularly using fuel far below the recommended octane is not advised and could affect long-term engine performance.
Conclusion: For optimal performance and reliability, use premium gasoline as recommended by Acura for the 2010 TL.
Emergency use and regional notes
In rare emergencies where premium isn’t available, the engine may operate on lower-octane fuel, but performance will likely drop and the vehicle may knock under certain conditions. Return to premium as soon as possible and follow the manual’s guidance for your region, as octane labeling can vary by market.
Summary
The 2010 Acura TL requires premium gasoline (91 octane or higher) for best performance and operation. Regular 87-octane gasoline is not recommended for normal driving and may reduce power, responsiveness, and efficiency. If premium is unavailable temporarily, limit high-demand driving and refuel with premium as soon as possible to restore the vehicle’s designed performance. Always follow the owner’s manual for your specific market.
What happens if I put 87 in my Acura?
Possible Engine Knocking: Lower-octane fuel can cause engine knocking (a knocking sound), which can be damaging over time. Lower Fuel Efficiency: Regular gas may not burn as efficiently as premium fuel, which can cause lower miles per gallon (MPG).
What type of gas does a 2010 Acura TL take?
The 2010 Acura TL requires premium unleaded gasoline (91 octane or higher) for optimal performance and to prevent engine damage. While the engine can compensate for lower octane fuel with adjustments, using 87 octane can lead to reduced power, decreased fuel economy, and potential long-term engine knocking or pinging.
Why premium fuel is recommended
- Engine design: The 4th generation TL uses high-compression engines, which require higher octane fuel to prevent pre-ignition or "knocking".
- Performance: Premium fuel provides better performance and fuel economy because it burns more efficiently.
- Engine longevity: While using lower octane fuel for a short time won't likely cause immediate damage due to the knock sensor, prolonged use can lead to potential issues like carbon buildup and may damage the engine over time.
What to do
- Use premium: Always use 91 octane or higher fuel for the best results.
- Check the gas cap: The recommended fuel type is usually printed on the gas cap itself.
- Be cautious with lower octane: If you accidentally put in a lower octane fuel, the engine may adjust, but it's best to fill up with the recommended premium fuel as soon as possible.
What happens if I put regular gas in my Acura TL?
Acura cars and SUVs are designed to get the best performance possible. With many now incorporating turbochargers, higher compression, and variable timing, regular-grade gas can cause pinging. Pinging, or spark knock, happens when fuel detonates before the spark plug ignites the air-fuel mixture in the cylinder.
Which 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!
