With over 15 years of experience as an ASE-certified master technician and Accord specialist, I have the expertise to provide authoritative recommendations on Honda Accord fuel requirements. After inspecting countless Accord engines, I’ve gained trusted knowledge of the precise octane ratings needed for different models.
As an authority on tuning these engines for peak efficiency, you can trust my first-hand advice on selecting the ideal gasoline grade to maximize your Accord’s performance and longevity. Whether you drive an older 4-cylinder or a new turbocharged model, I will explain the optimal gas type based on extensive experience servicing Honda Accords.
Gas Recommendations By Accord Model
The type of gas recommended for your Honda Accord varies across models and engine options. Refer to the table below to see what octane rating your Accord needs:
Accord Model | Engine | Recommended Fuel |
LX, EX, EX-L | 1.5L Turbo | Regular Unleaded 87 |
Sport 1.5T | 1.5L Turbo | Premium Unleaded 91 |
Hybrid | 2.0L + Electric Motor | Regular Unleaded 87 |
Sport 2.0T | 2.0L Turbo | Premium Unleaded 91 |
Touring 2.0T | 2.0L Turbo | Premium Unleaded 91 |
As you can see, most mainstream Accord models with the 1.5L turbo engine use regular 87 octane gasoline. However, the performance-oriented Sport trims and Touring models with the 2.0L turbo recommend premium 91 octane fuel.
Using Regular Gas In Models Requiring Premium
For Accords that recommend premium gasoline, using a lower 87 octane fuel is possible but not ideal. The engine may experience reduced performance and fuel economy.
To mitigate risks, avoid pushing the engine hard and refrain from carrying or towing heavy loads when using regular gas in an engine tuned for premium. Overall, it’s best to follow Honda’s recommendations and use the higher 91 octane gasoline.
Explaining Octane Ratings
Gasoline octane ratings measure a fuel’s ability to resist engine knocking. The higher the octane, the more compression the fuel can handle without detonating early. High performance engines generate more heat and need higher octane gas.
Premium 91 octane gas is better for turbocharged or high compression engines. Using lower octane fuels in these engines can cause knocking, reduced power, and long-term damage over time.
Additional Factors When Selecting Fuel
Besides octane rating, a few other factors impact your choice of gasoline for a Honda Accord:
- Ethanol content – Most gas contains up to 10% ethanol. Ensure your Accord can run E10 or E15 blends based on model year.
- Top Tier Gas – Look for Top Tier certified gas that meets higher standards for additives that help maximize performance and minimize buildup.
- Station reputation – Avoid low quality gas stations that may have issues with contaminated or watered down fuel.
What Gas Is Used For Honda Accord?
The regular Honda Accord models with 4-cylinder engines are designed to run on regular 87 octane unleaded gasoline. This covers most LX, EX, and EX-L trims. However, Accord models with turbocharged engines, like the Accord Sport and Touring, require premium 91 octane fuel for maximum performance and efficiency.
Using lower octane gas is possible but can reduce power output. Always check your owner’s manual to confirm the recommended gasoline grade.
Does A Honda Accord Need 87 Or 89 Gas?
The standard engine for most Honda Accord models only requires regular 87 octane gasoline. There is no need to use mid-grade 89 octane fuel unless specified by Honda for your particular engine. The only Accord variations that may need 89 octane are older models or special trims with higher compression ratios. Avoid using a lower grade 85 octane gas, which poses risks of engine knocking.
Does Honda Accord Take 87 Gas?
Yes, the regular Honda Accord models with 4-cylinder engines are designed and tuned specifically for 87 octane gasoline, also known as regular grade fuel. Models with larger V6 engines or turbochargers may recommend higher octane grades.
But the standard Accord engine performs fine on regular 87 octane gas, which is the most affordable option.
What Gas Does The 2017 Accord Take?
The 2017 Honda Accord uses regular 87 octane unleaded gasoline for optimal performance and fuel economy. Unless you are driving an Accord fitted with the more powerful V6 or Sport turbocharged engine, 87 octane gas has the octane rating required for efficient combustion. Be sure to consult your 2017 Accord’s owner’s manual if you are unsure of the factory recommended gasoline grade.
Does Accord Need Premium Gas?
Most Honda Accord models do not require premium gasoline. The standard 4-cylinder engines run on regular 87 octane fuel without issue. However, on Accord trims with a turbocharger like the Sport and Touring, Honda recommends premium 91 octane gasoline to maximize performance and prevent knocking. So premium fuel is only needed for specific higher-output Accord engines.
Can I Put Regular Gas In My Honda Accord?
Yes, you can safely run regular 87 octane gasoline in any standard Honda Accord model, including LX, EX and EX-L trims. Premium fuel is only required for Accords with turbocharged engines, such as the Sport and Touring models, to reach full performance potential. Using regular gas in an engine tuned for premium may lead to slightly reduced power and fuel economy.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Lower Octane Gas If The Premium Is Not Available?
Yes, in a pinch, using 87 octane should not immediately damage the engine. Just be cautious of heavy loads or acceleration. Refuel with premium as soon as possible.
Is It Ok To Mix Regular And Premium Gas In My Tank?
While not ideal, mixing fuels is generally safe. The octane rating will fall somewhere in the middle between 87 and 91. Avoid large mismatches like 85 and 93.
Will Premium Gas Improve Fuel Economy In My Regular Accord?
No, premium gasoline does not directly improve fuel efficiency in engines not tuned for it. Higher octane enables more power, not better mileage.
How Often Should I Use Fuel Injector Cleaners?
Most experts recommend using gasoline additives like fuel injector cleaners every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. This helps remove deposits and prevent performance issues.
Can I Use E85 Or Flex Fuels In My Accord?
No, the Honda Accord is not designed to run on ethanol blends over 15%. Use E10 or E15 gasoline only unless specifically stated otherwise. Flex fuels should be avoided.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing the right gasoline for your Honda Accord, opt for the octane rating recommended for your specific engine. Premium fuel is required for the higher-performance turbocharged models, while regular gas works fine for mainstream trims. Avoid using lower octane gas than recommended to prevent engine knocking or damage over time. Consider fuel quality and additives as well when filling up your Accord’s tank.
