A JDM magazine did a test on this matter. (keep in mind the 'hi-octane' in Japan is 96, regular is 86) Their conclusion is that lower octane gasoline hurts performance on most vehicles but will not do damage to the engine on the short run. However, on turbo charged or supercharged engines, low octane gasoline could result in knocking and engine damage.

Their test also includes gas milage and performance tests. Basicly they stated you cannot save any money by using standard fuel since you get worse performance and worse gas milage.

 

under the gas meter does it say "premium only". i think not. u should be fine with that octane but try topp'n it off with 91 as you run along. i've been pumping 89 on mine and seems to be fine. hopefully my engine won't wear down. since la/beverly traffic is horrible gotta up the anti and put 91 from now on. :/

 

agreed, the better blends have more additives/cleaners etc. I use 93 since I bought this car for performance and don't limit the engine by saving a few dollars per fillup.

 

Yeah do not worry ... the ECU will retard the timing to compensate but its not advaisable to run on it for a long periods of time....

 

on my gas tank lid (inside) in all CAPS it reads PREMIUM UNLEADED FUEL ONLY in both English and French

 

oh it does? lol how'd i miss that. so inside huh. i thought it would say on t he gas meter inside our cars if it needs p.fuel. like most cars. i know my old 99prelude says it right under it but hey~ every cars different.