Honda Car Forum

Hi:

I recently purchased a 1996 Acura 3.2TL Premium Edition with 75000
miles on it. It says in the manual as well as on the inside of the gas
tank door that Premium Unleaded Fuel is strongly recommended. I would
like to know if this recommendation results only in better fuel
economy or if it also affects the performance/life of the engine.
Also, is the increase in fuel economy comparable to the difference in
price between regular and premium unleaded gasoline?

Thanks in advance,
Swaroop

It has been my understanding that, if you use less than 91 octane fuel, the
anti-kock sensor and computer will back off the spark advance to prevent
harm to the engine and you will feel a corresponding lack of performance.
That will probably affect the mileage as well.

Be sure you are aware of the free tune up and oil change Acura owes you at
75K and the 14yr / 150K warranty on all emissions related items - it will
save you a bundle on your 3 oxygen sensors. Plugs wires are included in the
tune up if you remind them.

Also remember your timing belt replacement, you get to pay for that one.

"Swaroop Kumar" <swaroop1967@yahoo.com> wrote in message
news:9ac24bd7.0404011905.10d547a6@posting.google.c om...
> Hi:
>
> I recently purchased a 1996 Acura 3.2TL Premium Edition with 75000
> miles on it. It says in the manual as well as on the inside of the gas
> tank door that Premium Unleaded Fuel is strongly recommended. I would
> like to know if this recommendation results only in better fuel
> economy or if it also affects the performance/life of the engine.
> Also, is the increase in fuel economy comparable to the difference in
> price between regular and premium unleaded gasoline?
>
> Thanks in advance,
> Swaroop