RX - 2nd Gen (2004-2009) Discussion topics related to the 2004 -2009 RX330, RX350 and RX400H models
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Do you need Premium Gas in the 2RX (merged discussion threads)

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Old 06-18-09, 07:41 AM
  #391  
hermanrd
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2000 RX 300,AWD. 66,000 miles. Reg.Gas
Old 06-19-09, 07:53 AM
  #392  
lexus114
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ecm is mapped for Premium fuel,even on the early models. Thats why Premium fuel is recommended. Yes the early models will run on 87 octane,because it`s not said Premium Only. When it states Premium Fuel only! you had better stick to it. At least if you want longevity from the motor.
Old 06-19-09, 09:25 AM
  #393  
hermanrd
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To each their own.
http://www.cartalk.com/content/featu...questions.html
Old 06-19-09, 09:29 AM
  #394  
howdybob22
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Originally Posted by lexus114
ecm is mapped for Premium fuel,even on the early models. Thats why Premium fuel is recommended. Yes the early models will run on 87 octane,because it`s not said Premium Only
Maybe this is the reason why my 04 RX330 seems to accelerate/running smoother on Premium. Anyway, I just use Premium from SAM's club which is just barely more expensive than other stations regular. Also, I use a Master Card that automatically credit 3% back on Gas charges so my Premium is basically the same as using regular in other gas stations.

Yes, I know that this issue has been beaten to a pulp. Just add my 2 cents
Old 06-19-09, 11:39 AM
  #395  
Gibster
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Here's my logic for my 2005....

Manual states:

"For improved vehicle performance, the use of
premium unleaded gasoline with an Octane Rating 91
(Research Octane Number 96) or higher is recommended."

Premium is about $.20 more than regular. That equates to $3.00 per tank.

I get about 1-2 miles per gallon more with premium.

For me the decision is easy. I use premium.
Old 06-19-09, 01:39 PM
  #396  
jfelbab
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+1 My experience also.
Old 06-19-09, 07:16 PM
  #397  
ltharley
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Default RX 3.3 regular gas

I live at 10,000 ft in the mountains outside of Denver. I have used only regular gas ( the owners manual said it was OK ) I have 90K on the car without any problem, a 2005. I also get 24+ mpg
Old 06-21-09, 03:55 AM
  #398  
garrard
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A couple of things:

1. I hate Sam's Club, Walmart, but the gas is great. It's the only station in our area where I can get gas without ethanol. I assume that unlike other companies who share distributors/gas, Sam's has its own distribution system like it has for everything else.

2. Question: I know that for normal driving, knock sensors allow the use of lower octane fuel than the engine was set to use. However, knock sensor failure seems to be a somewhat frequent occurrence, they're not that cheap, and the RX has several. Does anyone know if the knock sensor is the kind of component that the harder/more it works, the sooner it wears out? If that's the case, could it be cheaper in the long run not to rely on knock sensors to adjust ignition timing and just run the octane for which the vehicle is optimized?
Old 06-21-09, 09:17 PM
  #399  
hesham1
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Knock sensors are always working, regardless of whether or not a knock (pre-ignition) actually occurs. They essentially monitor the cylinders as "microphones" listening in for certain frequencies. Knock sensers do not fail based on the number of times they prevent or retard a knock. They fail with age due to heat, vibration, etc.

One thing I did learn about knock sensors is they pretty much do not work at high RPMs (>4,000) because they just cant keep up in real time. However, virtually all knocks occur at 2,000 RPM or less, and our drive-by-wire systems help prevent knock in the first place by preventing abrupt changes in fuel delivery as they relate to timing.

moral of the story: if you drive hard, probably wanna stick with premium. if youre soft on the pedal, regular is fine. Like anything else, its a personal choice, so take care of your car knowing the pros and cons
Old 06-24-09, 04:06 PM
  #400  
larry09
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Run only regular in my 09 PB. Recent trip San Antonio to Houston - 200 miles - 75 mph - 28+ mpg. Could not believe it, but fillup afterwards confirmed it.
Old 06-26-09, 04:27 AM
  #401  
daryll40
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28MPG? Is this a AWD vehicle?
Old 06-27-09, 05:46 PM
  #402  
hikcer
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only premium
Old 06-28-09, 09:39 AM
  #403  
larry09
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Originally Posted by daryll40
28MPG? Is this a AWD vehicle?
Front wheel drive.
Old 06-28-09, 12:46 PM
  #404  
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I feel better now
Old 06-29-09, 06:08 AM
  #405  
mandyfig
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The RX350's will give you better mileage if premium is used. And somebody did a calculation showing the additional cost for the gas justifies the mileage uptick. Try it some time, do your own testing. As we say, do a DOE.


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