Does the Acura RDX really need premium gas?
The short answer is yes, the Acura RDX does require premium gasoline. This luxury crossover SUV is designed to perform optimally with higher-octane fuel, and using regular gas can potentially cause issues with engine performance and fuel efficiency.
Understanding the Acura RDX's Fuel Requirements
The Acura RDX is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 272 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. This engine is designed to take advantage of the higher octane rating of premium fuel, which helps prevent knocking or pinging during combustion. Using regular gas with a lower octane rating can lead to reduced power, decreased fuel economy, and potentially even engine damage over time.
Acura specifically recommends the use of premium unleaded gasoline with a minimum octane rating of 91 for the RDX. This is a common requirement for many turbocharged and high-performance engines, as the higher octane helps maintain optimal engine efficiency and prevent premature ignition, which can cause issues like engine knocking.
The Consequences of Using Regular Gas
- Reduced Power and Performance: The RDX's turbocharged engine is tuned to take full advantage of premium fuel. Using regular gas can result in a noticeable decrease in power and acceleration.
- Lower Fuel Efficiency: The engine may not be able to operate at its peak efficiency with regular gas, leading to reduced fuel economy.
- Potential Engine Damage: In extreme cases, using regular fuel in an engine designed for premium can cause knocking, pre-ignition, and other issues that may lead to long-term engine damage.
While the cost of premium fuel may be higher, it's generally recommended to follow the manufacturer's fuel requirements to ensure the Acura RDX performs as intended and to avoid any potential issues down the road.
Does the 2025 Acura RDX require premium gas?
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.
What happens if I don't use premium gas in my Acura RDX?
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 an Acura really need premium gas?
Do All Acuras Require Premium Gas? Like we stated, premium gas is only recommended on the MDX, RDX, TLX, RLX, and ILX Acura models. You'll be safe on our Cherry Hill roads using regular gas in these automobiles. However, the engines in these models are designed for optimal performance when high-octane fuel is used.
What happens if you accidentally put regular gas instead of premium in an Acura?
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 will happen if I put regular gas in a premium car?
However, remember this: when a premium fuel engine runs on regular fuel, there's a risk of combustion of the fuel mix before the spark plug even lights up. This causes a phenomenon called knocking, which is likely to damage the engine.
Do I really have to use premium gas?
Should I use regular or premium gas? You should use the type of fuel the vehicle's manufacturer recommends. A vehicle that runs on regular gas will not run any better on premium fuel. Using premium gas in a vehicle designed for premium gas will help the car perform better and avoid damaging the engine with regular gas.
How can I get better gas mileage in my Acura RDX?
Six Ways to Get Better Gas Mileage
- Avoid Rush Hour. Planning your route can help you avoid rush hour traffic and maximize your fuel efficiency.
- Remove Excess Weight.
- Follow the Speed Limit and Use Cruise Control.
- Don't Let Your Car Idle For Long.
- Use the Correct Grade of Motor Oil.
- Schedule Routine Maintenance.
Does the 2024 Acura RDX take regular gas?
According to Acura, the Acura NSX requires premium gas. For models like the RDX, MDX, TLX, RLX, and ILX, premium gas is recommended. So, does Acura require premium gas? Only some models, not all — our service department recommends using higher octane gas in Acura for a few reasons.
What gas is recommended for an Acura RDX?
Premium unleaded 91 octane fuel
If you're the proud owner of a new Acura sedan or SUV, Premium unleaded 91 octane fuel is required to make it run – and recommended for the following Acura models: Acura Integra. Acura TLX. Acura RDX.
Does 2024 RDX need premium gas?
But, do all Acura models require premium gas? No — but it's recommended that you use a higher-octane fuel in your Acura for a number of reasons. According to Acura, premium gas is only required for the Acura NSX, but it is recommended for the MDX, RDX, TLX, RLX, and ILX.
