Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Pinging While Accelerating? Could Be Low Octane Or Low Quality Fuel (B10120D)
Reference number: B10120D
PINGING WHILE ACCELERATING? COULD BE LOW OCTANE OR LOW QUALITY FUEL
TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN
| ACURA: | All Models |
| CATEGORY: | ServiceNews Article |
| Applies To: | General Information |
SERVICE INFORMATION
Got a vehicle in your shop with an engine that pings while accelerating? Low octane or low quality fuel could be the reason why. If the engine calls for premium fuel (an octane rating of 91 or higher ) and it's getting regular fuel instead (an octane rating of 87 or higher) , you can wind up with this problem.
If that's the case, make sure the service consultant explains this to your client. We clearly state the fuel recommendation in the owner's manual, quick start guide, and advanced technology guide. You'll also find it on a label inside the fuel fill door; it's hard to miss.
We also started recommending in the owner's manual and advanced technology guide the use of TOP TIER Detergent Gasoline, where available, to help maintain vehicle performance and reliability. For more info on it, check out the June '10 ServiceNews article "TOP TIER Detergent Gasoline: We Recommend It!"
Using regular fuel in an engine that calls for premium not only causes that annoying pinging, but long-term use can lead to engine damage. With premium fuel, the engine not only runs better but with more power since the ECM/PCM isn't trying to retard ignition timing to make up for pinging.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.