Does a 2012 Acura TL require premium gas?
The 2012 Acura TL is a luxury sedan known for its performance and refined driving experience. One common question among owners is whether this vehicle requires premium gasoline. Understanding the fuel requirements can help you maintain optimal performance and efficiency while also considering your budget.
Fuel Requirements for the 2012 Acura TL
The 2012 Acura TL is designed to run on premium unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 91 or higher. While it is possible to use regular unleaded gasoline (87 octane), doing so may lead to several drawbacks:
- Reduced Performance: The engine is tuned to perform optimally with higher octane fuel. Using regular gas can result in decreased horsepower and acceleration.
- Knocking: Lower octane fuel can cause engine knocking, which is a result of premature fuel ignition. This can lead to long-term engine damage if not addressed.
- Fuel Efficiency: Premium gasoline can improve fuel efficiency, meaning you may get more miles per gallon compared to using regular gas.
Why Premium Gasoline Matters
Using the recommended fuel type is crucial for maintaining the health of your vehicle. Here are a few reasons why premium gasoline is beneficial for the 2012 Acura TL:
- Engine Longevity: Consistently using the recommended fuel can help prolong the life of your engine by preventing knocking and other issues.
- Enhanced Driving Experience: Premium fuel can enhance the overall driving experience, providing smoother acceleration and better handling.
- Resale Value: Keeping your vehicle in top condition by using the right fuel can help maintain its resale value over time.
Conclusion
In summary, while the 2012 Acura TL can technically run on regular gasoline, it is highly recommended to use premium unleaded fuel to ensure optimal performance, efficiency, and engine health. Investing in the right fuel will not only enhance your driving experience but also protect your vehicle in the long run.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I don't use premium 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 the Acura TL need premium?
While modern vehicles, Acuras included, are equipped with knock sensors to prevent pre-ignition, using premium gas becomes essential for unlocking the full performance potential. Acura vehicles, renowned for their high performance, often feature turbocharged or supercharged engines with a higher compression ratio.
Can you put 87 in an Acura?
Acuras can operate with regular gas, however, you won't be able to unleash the full potential of your vehicle without a higher octane fuel.
Is it OK to put regular gas in a premium car?
If your car requires premium to run smoothly, but you aren't able to find a station with premium gasoline, it won't hurt to top off with regular gasoline. You do want to avoid running on regular gasoline for extended periods of time.
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!
What kind of gas does a 2012 Acura TL take?
premium unleaded 91-octane
While your Acura vehicle will run fine on regular gasoline, using the recommended premium unleaded 91-octane fuel is sure to boost performance, increase longevity, and keep your Acura running as it should – providing you with the peace of mind you've been seeking.
Does a 2012 Acura TL need premium gas?
A six-speed automatic with paddle shifters is standard on the base and SH-AWD trims, while a six-speed manual is standard on SH-AWD 6MT models. The 2012 Acura TL requires premium gas, which may deter some shoppers, but its fuel economy is better than some competitors that use regular gas.
What happens if I put regular gas in my Acura TL?
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.”
What happens if I put 87 instead of 93?
In older cars, putting a lower octane gas in the tank might cause knocking and pinging and will result in reduced performance. In most cases, it won't damage your engine, but it could, depending on the engine, the car, how you drive it, and other factors. Newer cars handle lower octane fuel better than older ones.
What kind of gas to put in an Acura TL 2012?
premium unleaded 91-
While your Acura vehicle will run fine on regular gasoline, using the recommended premium unleaded 91-octane fuel is sure to boost performance, increase longevity, and keep your Acura running as it should – providing you with the peace of mind you've been seeking.
