Some Lexus models require premium gas. On the other hand, some Lexus models only recommend it. This article will explains the difference between the recommended and required premium gas in the your Lexus.
What Happens If I Don’t Fill My Lexus with Premium Gas?
For high-performance vehicles such as the Lexus coupes, you need to use high-octane gas. Using regular gas can cause the engines to detonate more often. Fortunately, modern ignition systems can help you run your car on only regular gas until it reaches a certain point. The fuel economy and performance of your vehicle will suffer if you continue using regular gas.
The use of premium gas in certain models indicates that the vehicle’s engine has been designed to operate under high octane. Regular gas, on the other hand, can cause uncontrolled combustion and knock the engine out.
If your vehicle’s manufacturer requires you to use premium gas or has an octane rating of 91, then you should stop using regular gas. If your engine experiences damages because of the use of regular gas, then you will void your warranty.
Not all Lexus vehicles required to use premium gas. However, the manufacturer may require it depending on the model.
What Exactly is Premium Gas?
Premium gas has a higher octane rating. It can have a rating of 90, 94, or 91. Regular gas, on the other hand, usually has an octane rating of 87. The exact numbers can vary depending on your location and altitude.
Before you fill up your vehicle, make sure that the pump has a yellow sticker that informs you about the octane rating of the gas.
The octane sticker should match your vehicle’s recommended octane rating. Most Lexus models require either regular or premium gas at a octane rating of 87 or 91.
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) requires fuel pumps to have a yellow sticker that informs customers about the minimum octane rating of the gas. The Energy Information Administration has a lot of information about octane ratings that you can read here.
Which Lexus Models Need Premium Gas?
Some models of Lexus vehicles, such as the RX, UX, NX, and Hybrid, could use regular gas and run properly. These models need a octane rating of 87 to operate smoothly.
Models such as the Lexus GX, RX, and RX Hybrid, as well as the Lexus NX and UX, require premium gas. The minimum octane rating for these vehicles is 91.
Those who want to get the most out of their high-performance Lexus Coupes should use premium gas. Doing so will help boost the engine’s power and prevent it from knocking. Regular gas can also cause damages to the vehicle’s engine.
Difference between recommending premium gas and requiring it
Some Lexus models, such as the Lexus NX and UX, require premium gas. This means that regular gas can be used without damaging the engine. Using premium gas can improve the vehicle’s gas mileage and performance, though it may not make a big difference.
Certain Lexus models, such as the Lexus Coupes, require premium gas to operate properly. These cars’ engines are designed to run on high-octane gas to prevent detonation. If you don’t use premium gas, your vehicle’s engine may suffer damage.
Although premium gas can improve the performance of your vehicle, it’s also going to cost you more. A gallon of premium gas costs around 10% more than regular gas.
What If I Fill Up With Regular Gas by Mistake?
If you accidentally fill up your vehicle with regular gas, you should drive normally and use premium fuel for the next fill-up.
If you continue using regular gas, your vehicle’s performance and fuel economy will suffer. Also, regular gas can cause your car’s engine to experience long-term issues.
Do Other Luxury Brands Require Premium Fuel, Or Is This a Lexus-Only Requirement?
Other luxury brands, such as Volkswagen, BMW, and Mercedes Benz, also require premium gas in their vehicles. Some models, such as the Mini Cooper, can use regular fuel.
However, on an average, most luxury cars require premium gas. If you’re unsure if this is the best option for your vehicle, you can always contact your local dealer.
Closing Thoughts
To avoid using fuel with a low octane rating, avoid using fuel that’s below the manufacturer’s recommended amount. This can affect the longevity of your vehicle. See the user manual for your vehicle’s model for the recommended octane rating.