What Honda cars require premium gas?
Most Honda vehicles are designed to run on regular unleaded gasoline, which has an octane rating of 87. However, some Honda models specifically recommend or require premium fuel with a higher octane rating of 91 or higher. Understanding which Honda cars require premium gas can help you make the right fuel choice and avoid potential engine issues.
Honda Models That Require Premium Fuel
According to Honda's fuel recommendations, the following Honda models require premium gasoline (91 octane or higher):
- Honda Civic Type R
- Honda Accord 2.0T
- Honda Pilot 2.3T (Touring and Elite trims)
- Honda Passport 2.3T (Touring and Elite trims)
- Honda Ridgeline 2.3T (Touring and Black Edition trims)
These Honda models are equipped with turbocharged engines that are designed to operate optimally with higher-octane premium fuel. Using regular gasoline in these vehicles may result in reduced performance, decreased fuel efficiency, and potentially cause engine damage over time.
Honda Models That Recommend Premium Fuel
In addition to the models that require premium gas, Honda also recommends using premium fuel in the following vehicles for best performance:
- Honda Accord 1.5T
- Honda Civic 1.5T
- Honda CR-V 1.5T
- Honda Odyssey 3.5L V6
- Honda Pilot 3.5L V6
- Honda Ridgeline 3.5L V6
While these models can technically run on regular gasoline, Honda suggests using premium fuel (91 octane or higher) for optimal engine performance, fuel efficiency, and long-term engine health.
Using the Correct Fuel in Your Honda
It's important to always refer to your Honda's owner's manual to determine the recommended fuel type for your specific model. Using the wrong fuel can lead to a range of issues, from reduced power and acceleration to potential engine damage over time. If your Honda requires or recommends premium fuel, be sure to fill up with the appropriate high-octane gasoline to keep your vehicle running at its best.
Which Hondas require premium gas?
Premium gasoline is not required for most Honda models unless your owner's manual states otherwise. Higher-octane fuel does not improve performance in engines that are not built for it.
What happens if I put premium gas in my Honda?
It's unlikely that your car will be harmed if you use premium gas in a car that requires regular gas. But it's a near-certainty that you won't see an increase in performance and a fact that you'll pay more for premium.
Does the Honda CRV require premium gas?
No, a Honda CR-V does not require premium gas; it is designed to run on regular unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87. While some newer models may have a "91 octane recommended" note, this is for optimal performance and is not a strict requirement, as the vehicle's engine is built to handle 87 octane without damage.
- Fuel type: Use regular unleaded gasoline (87 octane or higher).
- Engine: Both the standard and turbocharged engines in the CR-V are designed for regular gas.
- Premium gas benefit: There is no performance gain or fuel economy improvement from using premium gas in a CR-V, and you will simply spend more money at the pump.
- Owner's manual: Always refer to your specific owner's manual for the most accurate fuel recommendation for your vehicle.
What cars actually need premium gas?
Cars that need premium gas are typically luxury, performance, and turbocharged or high-compression engine vehicles. Manufacturers specify the required fuel type in the owner's manual and on a sticker inside the fuel filler door. Examples of cars that often require premium gas include high-performance sports cars like the Toyota GR Supra and Ford Mustang GT, many turbocharged models like the Volkswagen Arteon and Subaru WRX, and many luxury vehicles.
Types of vehicles that commonly require premium gas
- Performance and luxury vehicles: High-end cars, sports cars, and performance trims of mainstream vehicles often use premium fuel to achieve their designed power and efficiency.
- Turbocharged and supercharged engines: Many modern engines, including smaller turbocharged ones, require premium gasoline because the higher pressure and temperature in these engines make them more susceptible to "engine knock" without it.
- High-compression engines: Vehicles with high-compression ratios are designed to operate most efficiently and safely with the higher-octane fuel.
- Large V8 and V6 engines: Some large trucks and SUVs with powerful V8 engines, such as the Chevrolet Silverado with the 6.2-liter V8, also require premium fuel.
How to know for sure
- Check the owner's manual: This is the most reliable source for information on your specific vehicle.
- Look for a label: Check the inside of your fuel filler door for a sticker that specifies the minimum octane rating.
- Understand the difference between "required" and "recommended": If the manual says premium fuel is "required," using regular can cause damage over time. If it's only "recommended," using regular gas may reduce performance but is less likely to cause damage.
