Does an Acura really need premium gas?

In most Acura models, premium gasoline is not strictly required, but turbocharged and performance-oriented versions typically demand higher-octane fuel to maintain peak power and prevent knocking.

Understanding the fuel requirement is important for cost, performance, and long-term engine health across the Acura lineup. This article reviews how octane works in Acura engines, which trims tend to need premium, and practical tips for fueling in everyday driving and travel.

How octane affects Acura engines

Octane rating measures a fuel’s resistance to premature ignition under compression. Engines with higher compression or forced induction (turbocharging) are designed to run on higher-octane fuel. Using the wrong octane can cause knocking, reduced performance, and shield-driven timing adjustments that erase power and efficiency.

In practice, Acura owner manuals typically label fuel requirements as Regular (87 octane) or Premium (91 octane or higher), with some performance variants explicitly requiring premium. Always verify the exact specification for your year and model on the fuel door sticker or in the manual.

• Turbocharged and high-performance Acura engines: Premium gasoline (91 octane or higher) is typically required or strongly advised to preserve advertised power and prevent knock.


• Naturally aspirated, non-turbo engines: Regular 87 octane is usually acceptable, though some trims may benefit from premium for improved throttle response or hot-weather driving. Always check the specific model’s guidance.


• Performance-oriented variants (such as Type S models): Premium fuel is required or clearly mandated by the vehicle’s fuel specification.

Bottom line: the exact requirement varies by engine and trim, so the manual or fuel label should be your primary reference. When in doubt, err on the side of premium to protect performance and engine health.

Practical guidance for the current Acura lineup

Across recent years, the rule of thumb is straightforward: turbocharged and high-output engines generally benefit from or require premium, while many base, non-turbo engines can run on regular, albeit with potential trade-offs in performance or efficiency. The specific requirements can evolve with new model years, so it’s essential to verify for your exact vehicle.

Turbocharged engines and performance trims

Engines with forced induction or high-output designs usually demand higher-octane fuel to reach advertised performance and to avoid engine knock. If your model features a turbocharged powertrain or a Type S variant, premium gas is commonly required or strongly recommended.

• Turbo models and Type S variants generally align with premium-only fuel to maintain peak power and durability.


• Using a lower-octane fuel can trigger knock and cause the engine to pull timing, reducing performance.

In turbocharged Acura models, sticking to the fuel specification in the owner’s manual is key to preserving performance and protecting the warranty.

Non-turbo engines and other trims

Many base engines or older non-turbo trims can operate on regular gasoline, but there may be advantages to using premium in certain conditions or climates. If you drive aggressively, tow heavy loads, or live at high altitude with hot summers, premium can help sustain performance.

• Regular gasoline is often acceptable for non-turbo engines, but premium can improve responsiveness in demanding driving conditions.


• Always confirm the exact requirement for your model/year in the owner's manual or on the fuel-filler door label.

For daily commuting, regular fuel may be sufficient if your car’s manual permits it; for maximum performance or long-term engine protection in challenging conditions, premium is the safer option.

What to do if premium gas isn’t available

Situations arise where premium is hard to find. Here are practical steps to take without risking engine damage:

• Refuel with the recommended octane as soon as possible; avoid sustained operation on a fuel grade well below the requirement.


• Avoid aggressive driving or high-load circumstances until you can refuel with the proper octane again.


• If your manual allows it and you must run on lower octane temporarily, monitor for knocking sounds and power loss; return to premium as soon as practical.

In all cases, checking the exact fuel specification for your model/year remains the best guidance. When in doubt, reach out to an Acura dealer or consult the owner’s manual for the definitive octane requirement.

Summary

Octane requirements in Acura vehicles vary by engine design and trim. Turbocharged and high-performance versions typically require or strongly benefit from premium (91 octane or higher) to deliver advertised power and prevent knocking. Many base, non-turbo engines can run on regular (87 octane), but premium may offer improved performance or longevity in demanding conditions. Always verify the requirement in your owner’s manual or on the fuel door label, and adjust fueling habits accordingly to protect your engine and preserve performance.

Conclusion

For Acura owners, premium gas is not universally mandatory, but it is essential for the brand’s most potent and performance-oriented engines. By understanding your specific model’s fuel requirements and adhering to the guidance in your manual, you can optimize performance, efficiency, and engine longevity while keeping fueling costs in perspective.

What happens if you accidentally put regular gas instead of premium in an 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 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).

Can you put regular gas in an Acura?

Most Acura models will run on regular gas, but the manufacturer recommends premium fuel for optimal performance and efficiency. While your car won't be damaged by using regular gas, you may experience reduced performance. The only Acura that requires premium fuel is the NSX. Always check your owner's manual or the label inside the fuel filler door for the specific recommendation for your vehicle. 
Important considerations

• Performance: Using regular gas can lead to reduced engine performance and acceleration in recommended premium models because the engine may adjust its timing to compensate for the lower octane. 
• Engine Knock: Premium fuel is less likely to pre-ignite, which is a condition known as engine knock. Acura's modern engines have knock sensors to prevent this, but using the recommended fuel helps avoid the need for the engine to compensate for knock. 
• Fuel Economy: There may be a slight decrease in fuel economy when using regular gas instead of premium. 
• Required vs. Recommended: For most models like the MDX, RDX, and TLX, premium is recommended, but not required. The NSX is the exception and requires premium fuel. 
• What to do: To find out exactly what your car needs, check the inside of your fuel filler door or your owner's manual. 

What year of Acura RDX to stay away from?

The Acura RDX years to avoid are generally the 2015, 2019, and 2021 models due to significant issues. The 2019 is often cited as the worst, especially the first model year of the third generation, with problems like engine stalling and power loss. Other years with notable problems include the 2013, 2014, and 2018. 
This video discusses common problems with the Acura RDX, including potential engine, transmission, and electrical issues: 59sHey, ask your dadYouTube · May 24, 2025
Years to be cautious about

• 2013-2015: These years can have transmission issues like rough shifting and slipping, and some models may have engine oil leaks. 
• 2015: In addition to transmission problems, this model year had issues with airbags and the soy-based wiring insulation attracted animals. 
• 2018: Reported transmission problems and potential engine issues like head gasket or timing chain problems have been noted. 
• 2019: This is widely considered the least reliable model year, particularly because it was the first year of a new generation. Owners have reported engine stalling, power loss, and issues with the rear glass shattering. 
• 2021: This year experienced issues with the transmission, brakes, and engine stalling due to a potential intercooler design flaw that could let moisture into the engine. 

What to do if buying used

• Thoroughly inspect any used model for the specific issues mentioned above. 
• If considering one of these years, have a trusted mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection. 
• Check for service records and recall history. 

This video demonstrates how to inspect an Acura RDX for potential issues, including engine oil leaks and suspension problems: 58sBCauto_YouTube · Aug 21, 2024