What gas does a 2012 Acura TSX take?
The 2012 Acura TSX requires premium unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 91 AKI (or higher) for optimal performance and engine protection.
The TSX uses a 2.4-liter i-VTEC inline-four engine and is designed to run on premium fuel to prevent knocking and to maintain peak power and efficiency. In most regions, premium fuel at the pump is rated at 91 octane or higher. Many markets also offer ethanol-blended fuels (such as E10); always check the owner’s manual and local labeling for ethanol compatibility and any region-specific guidance.
Fuel Requirements
The core fuel specification can be summarized as follows:
- Octane rating: Premium unleaded gasoline, 91 AKI (octane) or higher.
- Fuel grade: Premium, not the standard 87-octane regular grade.
- Ethanol content: Gasoline blends containing up to 10% ethanol (E10) are commonly acceptable; avoid higher blends unless the owner’s manual specifies otherwise.
- Detergent/Top Tier: Consider Top Tier gasoline brands for cleaner injectors and valves when available.
When in doubt, always follow the owner’s manual and pump labeling. Using the recommended fuel helps maintain performance and long-term engine reliability.
Regional considerations
United States and Canada
In North America, the official recommendation is premium gasoline with an octane rating of 91 AKI. Many stations offer 93 octane as well; either is acceptable as long as it meets or exceeds 91 AKI.
Other regions
Octane labeling varies internationally (RON vs. AKI). If traveling overseas, consult local fuel standards and convert octane ratings as needed to ensure you meet the 91 AKI benchmark. The vehicle’s manual or the fuel door label will provide guidance for the local market.
Summary
Bottom line: the 2012 Acura TSX is designed to run on premium unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 91 or higher. Opt for high-octane, Top Tier brands when possible, and verify any regional ethanol allowances in the owner’s manual to keep the engine performing at its best.
Does a 2012 Acura TSX need premium gas?
The 2012 Acura TSX's 4-cylinder sedan and wagon models recommend premium unleaded fuel, while the V-6 model requires it. While the car can run on lower-octane fuel, using the recommended premium gas is best for optimal performance, fuel economy, and long-term engine health by preventing knocking and pre-ignition.
Detailed explanation
- 4-cylinder models: The 4-cylinder engine has a high enough compression ratio that it performs best with premium gas, though its knock sensors can adjust for lower grades. Using regular gas may result in reduced performance or fuel economy, and long-term use of lower-octane fuel could potentially impact the engine, though some users report no issues.
- V-6 models: The V-6 engine specifically requires premium unleaded fuel for proper operation.
- Why premium is recommended: Higher octane fuel is more resistant to premature detonation (knocking or pinging) in the engine. Premium gas allows the engine to be tuned for higher performance without the risk of damage caused by lower-octane fuel.
- What to do: Check the inside of your gas cap or your owner's manual for the exact recommendation. If it says "premium recommended," you can use regular in a pinch, but for best results, use premium. If it says "premium required," you should only use premium fuel 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).
Should I use 87 or 89 gas?
Your car will run just fine. All modern cars can run 87,89,91,93. It's suggested that for maximum power that you use 93. If you're not at a track day event and just daily commuting 87 will serve you well. All modern cars are equipped with knock sensors to prevent engine damage from running lower octane fuel.
What gas does a TSX take?
The recommended gas for an Acura TSX is premium unleaded gasoline (91 octane or higher), although many 4-cylinder models can run on regular gasoline. However, using lower-octane fuel can lead to reduced engine performance, lower fuel efficiency, and potential engine knocking over time.
For 4-cylinder models:
- Recommendation: Premium unleaded (91 octane) is recommended to ensure optimal performance, efficiency, and longevity.
- Can it run on regular? Yes, most 4-cylinder models will run on regular gasoline without immediate damage, but you may notice a decrease in power and fuel economy.
- What happens with regular fuel? The engine's computer will adjust the timing to compensate for the lower octane, which can cause the engine to run slightly richer and lose performance.
For V-6 models:
- Requirement: Premium unleaded is required for the V-6 engine to perform correctly and avoid damage.
- What happens with regular fuel? Using regular fuel in a V-6 model can cause engine knocking and potential long-term damage.
How to be sure
- Check your gas cap: The most reliable source is often a label inside your fuel filler door, which will state whether premium is "required" or "recommended".
- Consult your owner's manual: This will have the official fuel specification for your specific vehicle.
