What gas does Honda CRZ take?
The Honda CR-Z runs on regular unleaded gasoline with a minimum octane rating of 87 (AKI) in the United States. Higher-octane fuel is optional and not required for normal operation.
Fuel type and octane requirements
As a hybrid, the CR-Z is designed to operate efficiently on standard gasoline. The owner's manual for most markets specifies regular unleaded gasoline with at least 87 octane. Using higher-octane fuel is allowed but generally does not deliver meaningful gains in fuel efficiency or performance for everyday driving.
Common guidelines for fueling the CR-Z include the following:
- Regular unleaded gasoline with a minimum octane rating of 87 AKI (US), or the equivalent in your market.
- Premium gasoline is not required for normal operation; higher-octane fuel may be used, but it typically does not improve mileage or acceleration.
- Fuels containing up to 10% ethanol (E10) are standard in many regions; avoid higher-ethanol blends unless your local manual allows them.
In short, the CR-Z's fuel specification centers on standard 87-octane regular gasoline, with optional higher-octane fuel and standard regional ethanol limits. Always verify the exact requirements in your model year's owner’s manual for your market.
Regional variations and manual confirmation
Fuel labeling and octane requirements differ by country because of different rating systems (AKI in the US versus RON elsewhere). The CR-Z sold outside the United States may reference different octane grades, but the underlying rule remains: use the octane level specified in your local manual. If you are unsure, contact a local Honda dealer or your repair shop for guidance tailored to your market and year.
Practical fueling tips
To support consistent performance and engine longevity, use gasoline from reputable stations and follow the manual’s guidance on octane. Consider Top Tier gasoline to help keep the fuel system clean, ensure the fuel cap is securely closed after fueling, and avoid fuels with questionable quality. If you notice knocking or reduced performance, review the octane you are using and consult a dealer.
Summary
The Honda CR-Z runs on regular unleaded gasoline with a minimum 87 octane rating in the US, and higher-octane fuels are optional. In most regions, fuel with up to about 10% ethanol is compatible, but always check your local manual for precise requirements. This ensures optimal performance and long-term reliability for the hybrid powertrain.
What gas does a Honda CR-Z take?
Honda engines are certified and designed to run on regular unleaded gasoline.
Can you put 87 gas in a hybrid?
Since these engines operate on an 87-octane fuel rating, putting in higher-grade gasoline will not improve fuel economy estimates, nor provide additional power. Your Owner's Manual will specify which gas to use. MYTH #2 - The hybrid battery only charges when the vehicle is plugged in. False!
What happens if I put 87 instead of 91?
If you put 87 octane instead of 91 in a car that requires it, your modern engine's computer will likely adjust timing to prevent damage, but you may experience reduced performance and fuel efficiency. For a one-time mistake, drive gently and fill up with 91 octane the next time to dilute the fuel. However, consistently using lower-octane fuel in a high-compression or performance engine can lead to engine knocking and potential damage.
What to expect in the short term
- Reduced performance: You may notice less acceleration and overall power.
- Engine knocking or pinging: This is a rattling noise that can occur when the fuel pre-ignites in the cylinder.
- Decreased fuel economy: Your car may use more fuel to go the same distance.
How to mitigate the effects
- Avoid hard acceleration: Drive gently, especially at high speeds or when climbing hills, to minimize the risk of engine knocking.
- Fill up with 91 octane: When your fuel tank is low, fill it up with 91 octane to mix with the remaining 87 octane fuel. This will dilute the lower-octane fuel and raise the overall rating.
- Check your owner's manual: The manual will specify if 91 octane is a requirement or simply a recommendation.
- Be cautious with performance vehicles: Cars with turbochargers or high-compression engines are more susceptible to damage from lower-octane fuel, so it is especially important to avoid aggressive driving.
Should I put 87 or 89 in my car?
No, 89 octane gas is not inherently better than 87, but it can be necessary for certain vehicles. For most cars, using 89 octane instead of 87 will not provide benefits like increased power or efficiency and is simply a more expensive choice. However, some engines are designed to require a higher octane level (like 89 or 91) to prevent knocking and damage, especially if they have a turbocharger or higher compression ratio. You should always use the octane level recommended in your vehicle's owner's manual.
When 89 octane may be needed
- Your car's manufacturer recommends it in the owner's manual.
- Your engine has a turbocharger or supercharger.
- Your engine has a high compression ratio.
- You hear your engine "knocking" or "pinging" when using 87 octane gas.
When 89 octane is not necessary
- Your car is designed for 87 octane fuel and doesn't have a high-performance engine.
- Using 89 octane won't make your car faster or more efficient than the recommended 87.
- You will simply be paying more for no added benefit.
