What kind of gas does a 2008 Acura TSX take?
The 2008 Acura TSX runs on premium unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 91 or higher.
In detail, the engine in this year’s TSX is tuned for higher-octane fuel to optimize performance and efficiency. While some stations offer lower-octane options, Honda’s guidance for this model is clear: use premium unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 91 or higher. The guidance below reflects the official owner’s manual and manufacturer recommendations for this generation.
Recommended fuel and octane guidelines
This section breaks down the octane requirements and how to use the correct fuel for this model.
- Premium unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 91 or higher (AKI).
- For optimal performance and efficiency, higher-octane fuels (typically 93 octane) can be used where available, though 91 octane is the minimum recommended level.
- Avoid regular 87 octane gasoline, as it can cause knocking, reduced performance, and lower fuel economy on this engine.
In practice, most stations offer 91–93 octane premium fuels for this model. Always verify the octane rating on the pump and follow the labeling on the fuel cap and in the owner's manual for the exact specification.
Manual reference and practical tips
What the owner's manual specifies
The 2008 TSX owner’s manual specifies premium unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 91 or higher. Using regular gasoline is not recommended, as it can lead to knocking and diminished performance. The manual also notes that higher-octane fuel helps preserve engine performance over time.
Tips for ensuring you’re using the right fuel
When filling up, check the pump label to confirm the octane rating is 91 or higher. If your driving conditions demand stronger performance or you notice knocking or reduced power, using a higher-octane fuel (around 93) may help, though 91 is the recommended minimum. Always close the fuel cap securely and follow any additional guidance in the owner’s manual.
Summary
For a 2008 Acura TSX, the proper fuel is premium unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 91 or higher. Regular 87 octane gasoline is not recommended and can compromise performance and efficiency. Always refer to the owner’s manual and pump labels to confirm the exact specification in your region.
