Fuel: Specifications

FUEL REQUIREMENTS
Use regular unleaded gasoline rated at 87 octane or higher. At a minimum, it should meet specifications ASTM D4814 in the United States and CGSB 3.5-M93 in Canada. Improved gasoline specifications have been developed by the American Automobile Manufacturers Association (AAMA) for better vehicle performance and engine protection. Gasoline meeting the AAMA specification could provide improved driveability and emission control system protection compared to other gasoline. Be sure the posted octane is at least 87. If the octane is less than 87, you may notice a heavy knocking noise when you drive. If the knocking is severe, it can damage your engine.

If you're using fuel rated at 87 octane or higher and you still hear heavy knocking, your engine needs service.

Some pinging sounds may occur during heavy acceleration or driving up a hill. This is normal. In these circumstances. a higher octane fuel is not required. However, if heavy engine knocking is heard. bring your vehicle in for servicing.

If your vehicle is certified to meet California Emissions Standards (indicated on the underhood tune-up label) it is designed to operate on fuels that meet California specifications. If such fuels are not available, your vehicle will operate satisfactorily on fuels meeting federal specifications, but emission control system performance may be affected. The malfunction indicator lamp on your instrument panel may turn on and/or your vehicle may fail a smog-check test. If this occurs, return for diagnosis to determine the cause of failure. In the event it is determined that the condition is caused by the type of fuels used, repairs may not be covered by your warranty.

CAUTION: Your vehicle was not designed for fuel that contains methanol. Do not use it. It can corrode metal parts in you fuel system and also damage plastic and rubber parts. Such damage is not covered under your warranty.

In Canada, some gasoline contain an octane-enhancing additive called MMT. If you use such fuels, your emission control system performance may deteriorate and the malfunction indicator lamp on your instrument panel may turn on. If this happens, return for service. To provide cleaner air, all gasoline are now required to contain additives that will help prevent deposits from forming in your engine and fuel system. allowing your emission control system to function properly Therefore, you should not have to add anything to the fuel. In addition, gasoline containing oxygenates, such as ethers and ethanol and reformulated gasoline may be available in you area to help clean the air. Isuzu recommends that you use these gasolines if they comply with the specifications described earlier.