Does Acura take 87 gas?
Most Acura models require premium gasoline, typically 91 octane or higher. In short, 87 octane is not recommended for Acura vehicles.
Understanding octane and why it matters for Acura
Octane rating measures a fuel’s resistance to knocking under compression. High-performance or high-compression engines—common in many Acura models—need higher-octane fuel to prevent pre-ignition and maintain optimal performance. Using a lower-octane fuel can lead to reduced power, throttle response, and, in some cases, engine knocking.
What Acura’s manuals typically say
Across recent model years, Acura manuals and fuel-labels typically specify Premium Unleaded Gasoline with an octane rating of 91 or higher. The exact wording may appear as “Premium Unleaded Gasoline Required” or “Premium Unleaded Gasoline Recommended” on the user manual, fuel door label, or vehicle information screens. Always verify for your specific model and year, as requirements can vary slightly by engine and trim.
Model-specific notes
Turbocharged and high-performance engines
Turbocharged or performance-oriented engines found in several Acura models generally require premium fuel (91 octane or higher). Running on 87 octane can trigger knocking, reduce boost efficiency, and impair performance, especially under load or during spirited driving.
Naturally aspirated and standard-compression engines
Even in models with naturally aspirated engines, Acura commonly recommends premium gasoline. Some years or trims may indicate stricter requirements; if one is uncertain, check the owner’s manual or fuel-filler label to confirm the minimum octane.
Practical guidance for drivers
To determine the correct octane for your Acura, follow these confirmation steps:
- Consult the owner’s manual for your exact model and year to see the recommended octane.
- Check the fuel-filler door label, which often lists the required fuel type and octane range.
- Review the onboard trip computer or maintenance information for any octane-related notices or warnings.
- If in doubt, contact an Acura dealer or customer support for your vehicle’s configuration.
In practice, sticking to the recommended 91 octane or higher ensures the engine operates as designed, preserves performance, and protects longevity. If a low-octane fuel is accidentally used, refuel with the appropriate octane as soon as possible to restore optimal conditions.
Summary
Across current Acura models, premium gasoline—octane rating 91 or higher—is the standard requirement. 87 octane is not recommended for most Acura vehicles and can compromise performance and efficiency. Always verify your specific model’s requirements via the owner’s manual or the fuel door label, and consult a dealer if you’re unsure.
