Does a 2016 Acura ILX need premium gas?
The 2016 Acura ILX does not require premium gasoline; regular 87-octane fuel is sufficient for all trims. You can opt for higher-octane fuel if you want potential performance benefits in certain conditions, but it is not required by the manufacturer.
In this article, we examine the official fuel recommendations for the ILX, how octane levels interact with its engines, and practical guidance for choosing fuel in everyday driving. We also look at the two gasoline engines offered in 2016 ILX models and what that means for fueling decisions.
Fuel requirements and octane guidance
Key points about octane ratings and what your ILX needs:
- 87 octane regular unleaded gasoline is the minimum recommended fuel for the 2016 ILX.
- Premium gasoline (91 octane or higher) is not required, but it can be used if you prefer or if you notice improved performance in certain driving conditions.
- Using higher-octane fuel does not inherently boost fuel economy; the engine is tuned for regular gas, and knock sensors prevent damage when using lower octane.
For most owners, sticking with regular 87-octane fuel provides adequate performance and efficiency, with premium offering potential—but not guaranteed—benefits under specific circumstances.
Engine options and fuel considerations
2.0L i-VTEC engine
This base engine is designed to run on regular 87-octane gasoline. Premium fuel is not required for normal operation, and most drivers won’t notice a dramatic difference in day-to-day driving.
2.4L i-VTEC engine
The larger engine in the 2016 ILX can also operate on regular gasoline, but in some conditions or with aggressive driving, drivers may choose higher-octane fuel for potential performance gains. Always consult the owner’s manual for the exact recommendation for your VIN and trim.
Note: Engine-specific guidance can vary by market and model year; when in doubt, follow the official owner’s manual or contact an Acura dealer.
Practical fueling tips
To maximize value and avoid unexpected fuel costs, keep these practical tips in mind:
- Refer to the owner’s manual or the fuel filler door sticker for the official octane recommendation for your engine and trim.
- If you hear knocking or pinging under load, going up to premium gasoline can help reduce detonation and improve drivability.
- Regular maintenance and clean fuel can help maintain performance and fuel economy, regardless of octane choice.
Bottom line: For everyday driving, regular 87-octane fuel is typically sufficient for the 2016 ILX. Premium fuel is optional and mostly a matter of driving conditions and personal preference.
Summary
The 2016 Acura ILX does not require premium gas; regular 87-octane gasoline will meet the car’s basic fueling needs. Premium fuel remains an option for those who want potential performance benefits under certain circumstances or who prefer to run higher-octane fuel in general. Always verify with your owner's manual or dealer for your specific engine and region.
What happens if I put regular gas instead of premium in Acura?
If you don't use premium gas in an Acura that recommends it, you may experience reduced engine performance, such as less horsepower and acceleration, and decreased fuel efficiency. You may also hear engine knocking or pinging, and consistent use of lower-octane fuel could lead to long-term engine wear and carbon buildup over time. However, most modern Acuras have knock sensors that can prevent immediate damage from using lower-octane fuel in a pinch.
Effects of using regular gas in an Acura that recommends premium
- Reduced performance: The engine's performance, including horsepower and acceleration, will be less than its full potential.
- Engine knocking: You may hear a metallic knocking or pinging sound from the engine, which is a sign of pre-ignition.
- Lower fuel efficiency: The car may get lower gas mileage because the fuel isn't burning as efficiently.
- Potential for carbon buildup: Over time, inefficient burning of the lower-octane fuel can lead to carbon buildup in the engine.
When it's okay to use regular gas
- Check your owner's manual: The manual will specify if premium fuel is a requirement or a recommendation. For many models, using regular gas once in a while is not a problem.
- If you are forced to: In a rare situation where premium gas is unavailable, your modern Acura can run on regular gas thanks to its knock sensors.
When you must use premium gas
- If it's a requirement: For certain models like the Acura NSX, premium gas is mandatory, and using lower-octane fuel can cause significant engine damage.
- If you experience consistent knocking: If you hear the knocking sound frequently, you should use premium gas to avoid potential damage.
What kind of gas does a 2016 Acura Ilx take?
The recommended gas type for a 2016 Acura ILX is premium unleaded gasoline (91 octane or higher). While the car can run on regular 87 octane, using premium is recommended by the manufacturer to achieve optimal performance and fuel economy, as the engine is designed with high-octane performance in mind.
- Recommended: Premium unleaded (91 octane)
- Why it's recommended: The engine is designed to run optimally with premium fuel, which can help maintain horsepower, torque, and fuel economy. Using regular fuel is unlikely to cause damage, but performance may be slightly reduced.
What year to stay away from Acura ilx?
However, some years are best avoided due to reliability concerns, and they are:
- 2013 Acura ILX.
- 2014 Acura ILX.
- 2016 Acura ILX.
Can you put regular gas in an Acura ilx?
According to Acura, premium gas is required for the Acura NSX, and it's recommended for the MDX, RDX, TLX, RLX, and ILX. The answer to the question, “Do all Acuras require premium gas?” is no — but it's recommended that you use a higher-octane fuel in your Acura for several reasons.
