96_2.5_guy

I just bought a 96 2.5 TL last week, it has 79,000 miles, but runs super smooth. I forgot to ask the dealership what type of gas to use. I'm assuming I should use premium.

biggie275

yeah it says 91 octane
atleast for the 3.2

96_2.5_guy

okay, thanks

Ken1997TL

You CAN run 87 octane with reduced performance, our engines have knock sensors so it is ok. You get what you pay for though, 94 premium can give me up to 27 mpg in my 3.2

96_2.5_guy

Okay, what about brand? Here in Los Angeles we have ARCO(the cheeper brand) vs. Chevron. Does it really make a difference where I get my gas? Or is it just a myth?

YNOTxTONY

Use what is suggested by Acura (look in the manual. It should be written on the gas gauge and the gas cap.). Most gas is the same, refined by the same companies. Arco is fine. Be careful of some independents or franchisees that are looking to save money. I used to go to this one local Shell station until the pump said I pumped 2 more gallons than the tank held. Now I use Costco gas. It's as cheap or cheaper than Arco. I can use a credit card. And Costco is very careful about what they buy.

KaMLuNg

iTrader: (5)

i go to the sunoco and fill up ultra 94... to me i guess it is all psychological.. hehehe more HP... naw but it does burn cleaner... if i know im going on a long highway ride i will put regular in cause ill burn it fast neways... but if the TL is gonna sit for the week and get driven one or two days.. all ultra baby... and maybe also add in 5$ of racing fuel twice a year...

silversofa

There's a really good article in the recnt issue of "Modified" (with silver 350Z on cover) talking about octane does and does NOT do for engines.

The octane content controls the burn-rate of the air-fuel mixture. For maximum hp/tq, the timing at which the mix burns is critical. If it starts burning too soon or too late, that maximum is not achieved. Generally, the higher the octane content , the "later" the mix burns. The max. HP/TQ is whatever the engine is designed for. It won't ever be more as a result of using an octane gas significantly higher than that recommended. This is contrary to what a lot of folks believe.

Using 87 octane gas means the air-fuel mix starts burning sooner than the engine is designed for. Knocking may result. But for sure, the engine will not generate the maximum power/torque as a result.

Ken1997TL

Our cars have knock sensors, so you CAN use regular gas with reduced power. With gas prices being like $2.30 for premium its tempting.

demons rage

iTrader: (1)

so its safe to put lower octane gas? cuz im literally broke from gas prices >_>

Ken1997TL

Yes, its safe. Just expect to lose about 20 hp (you'll only notice it if you accelerate hard a lot anyway)