in the Texas panhandle (elevation 3800'). Car takes up to 25 seconds to start, sputters to start. Usually takes two or three turns of the ignition key. However, once started gets up to 32 mpg at 65 mph. Highest octane fuel in panhandle is 90. Go to Lubbock and get 92-93 octane and the problem instantly goes away. Come to central Texas and get 93 octane and the problem goes away. Car runs perfectly on 92-93 octane fuel in panhandle until that tank of fuel is exhausted. Once 90 octane is added, the problem instantly recurs. Have talked with gas station owner and two distributors; 90 octane will always be the highest rated fuel in the panhandle. Have had Amarillo Honda dealer and Austin Acura dealer look at car; there are NO codes tripped or stored in computer.Can the car be tuned to 90 Octane fuel?

 

Welcome to the forum! Car Talk is more for general automotive discussion for cars not covered by your model specific forums. I'll move this into the TL section for you where you'll be able to connect with other TL owners!!

 

I should think that on-board computer would automatically adjust to the 90 octane. I've read of TL owners running regular gas, in hard times, with just a slight drop in performance.

 

maybe the problem is with something other than octane. i know in el paso (also at elevation) they tend to oxygenate their fuel more than other places. of course, i have no idea if this would cause the problems you are seeing.

 

I had that problem in the summer time 80-90 degree. I live in NH and since the fall has come around it fires up nicely. Seems like when it was hot out, it would sputter to start sometimes. And I always use 93 octane gas when I fill up. There is also a TSB on this problem.