Gasoline Octane Rating

All vehicles are designed to use regular unleaded fuel with an octane rating of 87. At service stations, the octane rating is displayed in a label on the pumps.
^ Always use a fuel with an octane rating of 87, even if it is sold as a midgrade or premium.
^ In some regions, regular grade fuels are sold with octane ratings of 86 or lower. This is commonplace in areas of high altitude.
^ Using a fuel with a lower octane rating can cause persistent and heavy knocking, which can damage the engine. It is not recommended to use such fuels.
^ Do not be concerned if the engine sometimes knocks lightly when driving up a hill or when accelerating. See a dealer or a qualified service technician if, when using a fuel with the specified octane rating:
- the engine knocks heavily under all driving conditions.
- the engine knocks lightly while being driven at cruising speed on level roads.

In most cases, it should not be necessary to use a premium grade of fuel with an octane rating of higher than 87.

If the engine has difficulty starting, rough engine idle or hesitation when the engine is cold, it may be caused by fuel with low volatility.
^ Trying a different grade or brand of fuel may solve the condition. If the condition persists, see a dealer or a qualified service technician.