Acura TSX - Premium Fuel Required
studebaker59
Member Posts: 1
in Acura
My wife and I are considering the purchase of an Acura TSX. We like the size and comfort of the car, but I noticed that premium fuel is required.
I was wondering if all you TSX owners use the premium fuel OR can we use regular fuel in the car. Is knocking and pinging experienced when regular fuel us used?
Just curious.
Roger
I was wondering if all you TSX owners use the premium fuel OR can we use regular fuel in the car. Is knocking and pinging experienced when regular fuel us used?
Just curious.
Roger
0
Comments
And no, the engine won't ping on regular, as the ECU retards timing to compensate, which also reduces engine efficiency.
Here is the math:
15,000 miles per year @ 21 mpg avg = 714.3 gallons used (using 87 octane)
15,000 miles per year @ 23 mpg avg = 652 gallons used (using 91 octane)
714.3 Gallons X $3.00 87 octane = $2,143 per year
652 Gallons X $3.20 91 octane = $2,086.4 per year
Difference of $56.50 cheaper overall per year for 91 octane compared to 87 Octane (assuming you lose about 1 ½ to 2 mpg because of using a lower grade).
I would only use something less than 91 octane if you have no choice and need to fill up one tank. I had to use 90 octane in when traveling to Eastern New Mexico because that is all they had.
I sold my TSX (Milano Red 6MT) in 2006, but I still remember it as one of my favorites of all the cars that I have owned over the years - and I've owned some good ones. It was also one of the few cars of mine that my wife really liked.
The styling, cockpit, control feel, and driving dynamics are still up there with the best in the segment. I really miss that beautiful instrument panel with the wood trim and luminescent gauges. Really classy.
If it had been RWD, I would probably still be driving it...