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What kind of gas does the Acura El take?

The Acura EL, a compact luxury sedan, requires premium unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 91 or higher. This is the recommended fuel type for optimal performance and fuel efficiency in the Acura EL.


Acura EL Fuel Requirements


The Acura EL is designed to run on premium unleaded gasoline, which has a higher octane rating than regular unleaded fuel. The recommended octane rating for the Acura EL is 91 or higher. Using a lower octane fuel can potentially cause engine knocking or pinging, which can lead to decreased performance and fuel economy, as well as potential long-term damage to the engine.


It's important to always refer to the owner's manual for the specific fuel requirements of your Acura EL model. The manual will provide the recommended octane rating and any other fuel-related information you need to know.


Benefits of Using Premium Fuel in the Acura EL



  • Improved Performance: Premium fuel has a higher octane rating, which allows the engine to operate at higher compression ratios without experiencing knocking or pinging. This results in more power and responsiveness from the engine.

  • Better Fuel Efficiency: The higher octane rating of premium fuel can also lead to improved fuel efficiency, as the engine can operate more efficiently with the higher-quality fuel.

  • Reduced Engine Wear: Using the recommended premium fuel can help protect the engine from premature wear and tear, as it is less prone to causing knocking or other issues that can damage engine components over time.


While premium fuel may cost more at the pump, the benefits it provides in terms of performance, fuel efficiency, and engine longevity can make it a worthwhile investment for Acura EL owners.

What kind of gas goes in an Acura?


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.



Does Acura El need premium gas?


One of the questions we often receive is “does Acura require premium gas?” Most Acura models do require premium gas, especially the MDX, RDX, TLX, RLX, ILX, and the high-performance NSX. So, do all Acuras require premium gas? The short answer, no.



Are Acuras cheap on gas?


Even more exciting, the 2025 Acura RDX has an EPA-estimated 21/27/23 MPG (City/Highway/Combined)1 with its base, Technology Package, and Advance Package trim levels or an EPA-estimated 21/26/23 MPG (City/Highway/Combined)1 for the A-Spec Package and A-Spec Advance Package.



Does my Acura really need premium gas?


The answer is actually no. The majority of the Acura lineup can safely use regular gasoline in a pinch, but there are good reasons to opt for premium anyway.



Can I put 89 gas in my Acura RDX?


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.



Can you put 87 gas in an Acura?


If you want to experience the full performance potential of your new Acura, it's best to opt for premium gas. Your luxury vehicle is still able to run on lower-octane or regular gas, but with this type of fuel, you won't be able to see all that it can do.



What is the difference between Acura El Touring and premium?


The second generation was available in touring and premium trim levels, the latter adding leather seats, heated front seats and a power sunroof.



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.”


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.