Acura vehicles require specific octane ratings as specified in the owner's manual to ensure optimal performance and engine protection. The octane rating system used varies by region, with Research Octane Number (RON) and Pump Octane Number (PON) being the primary standards. Below are key sections covering octane requirements, rating systems, fuel recommendations, and technical specifications for Acura vehicles.
Octane rating measures a fuel's ability to resist engine knocking or pinging during combustion. Higher octane fuels are more resistant to premature ignition.
| Rating Type | Description |
|---|---|
| RON (Research Octane Number) | Measured under mild conditions; commonly used in Europe, Asia, Australia |
| MON (Motor Octane Number) | Measured under more severe conditions |
| PON (Pump Octane Number) | AKI (Anti-Knock Index) = (RON + MON)/2; used in North America |
| Premium Fuel | Typically 91-94 PON (95-99 RON) |
| Regular Fuel | Typically 87 PON (91-95 RON) |
Most Acura models require premium unleaded gasoline for optimal performance.
WARNING! Using lower octane than recommended may cause engine knocking and potential damage.
Understanding the difference between RON and PON rating systems is crucial for proper fuel selection.
CAUTION! Ensure you understand which rating system your region uses when selecting fuel.
Using the correct octane rating ensures optimal engine performance and efficiency.
Benefits of proper octane: Maximum horsepower output, optimal fuel economy, reduced emissions, proper engine timing.
Using lower octane than recommended may result in: Reduced power output, decreased fuel efficiency, engine knocking, potential long-term damage, activated knock sensor reducing performance.
Proper octane selection protects your Acura's engine components and ensures longevity.
Tip: Always refer to your specific model year owner's manual for exact octane requirements.
Acura recommends using Top Tier detergent gasoline regardless of octane rating.
WARNING! Avoid using gasoline with more than 15% ethanol (E15) unless specifically approved.
Common symptoms of incorrect octane usage and solutions.
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Corrective Action |
|---|---|---|
| Engine knocking/pinging | Low octane fuel | Use higher octane fuel; next tank use premium |
| Reduced power | Knock sensor activation | Switch to recommended octane; reset ECU if needed |
| Poor fuel economy | Incorrect combustion | Use proper octane; check for other issues |
| Check engine light | Multiple misfires | Diagnose with scanner; use proper fuel |
| Rough idle | Poor fuel quality | Use Top Tier fuel; fuel system cleaning |
Octane rating requirements vary by country and region due to different measurement standards.
CAUTION! When traveling internationally, understand the local octane rating system.
Detailed technical information about Acura engine requirements.
| Engine Type | Compression Ratio | Recommended Octane | Minimum Octane |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.0L Turbo | 9.8:1 | 91 PON (95 RON) | 87 PON (91 RON) |
| 3.5L V6 | 11.5:1 | 91 PON (95 RON) | 87 PON (91 RON) |
| 3.0L Turbo V6 | 10.0:1 | 91 PON (95 RON) | 91 PON (95 RON) |
| 3.5L Twin Turbo | 10.0:1 | 93 PON (98 RON) | 91 PON (95 RON) |
| 2.4L I4 | 11.6:1 | 91 PON (95 RON) | 87 PON (91 RON) |
Common questions about Acura octane requirements answered.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Can I use regular gas in my Acura? | Only if owner's manual specifies it's acceptable; premium recommended for most models |
| What happens if I use wrong octane? | Possible engine knocking, reduced performance, potential long-term damage |
| How to convert RON to PON? | PON ≈ RON - 4 to 6 points (varies by fuel blend) |
| Does octane affect fuel economy? | Yes, proper octane maintains optimal combustion efficiency |
| What about ethanol blends? | E10 (10% ethanol) acceptable; avoid E15 unless specified |
Service: Contact Acura customer service at 1-800-382-2238 for specific model questions.