04 Accord V6 light sustained ping on acceleration

'04 V6 Accord with 4,700 miles on the clock. Running 87 octane. For
the last few weeks, in 100 degree temps, the engine has been pinging
faintly for several seconds at a time under moderate but slightly
aggressive acceleration. It is so subtle that I can just barely hear
it. And, only happens at mid-range speeds, like 30 to 50 mph or
thereabouts. (I haven't been looking at the tach like I should be.)

How close to the edge does Honda have these engines set up for? Is
this normal, or is it time for a dealer visit? I would ignore itexcept
that it is basically brand new.

 

I think I would try some 87 octane at another station before I would
assume it is the Honda.

 

Good suggestion Dick.

If that doesn't work, you might try a can of BG Gas treatment, it goes for
about $20. If that doesn't work, it might be time for a carbon depletion
treatent. Good Luck.
~PJW

 

I agree. I found that cheap quality gas, regardless of octane, would make
my '93 Accord ping on acceleration.

 

should not be happening. take it back under warranty & keep taking it
back until they fix it. sooner or later, getting you out of their hair
by fixing it is more cost effective than trying to send you away until
the warranty runs out - the usual tactic.

regarding problem, sounds like a defective knock sensor.

 

I think your knock sensor is trying to do its job, but under certain
driving conditions you may hear a little ping. I'm not a fan of using
preium gas, but I solved a very similar problem with my 95 Civic EX with
loads of miles by adding 2 to 3 gal. of Premium (93 octane} to an almost
full tank of regular. This costs me less than a dollar a week and raises
the octane in the tank to 88.5. I'm pretty sure an almost excact same
engine in the Acura line requires Premium. Those engines are producing
more horsepower because the knock sensors are not continually retarding
their timing like the Honda line. Blended gas is what you get if you
ever buy mid-grade because most service stations only have two underground
tanks. Good luck.

 

Which is why Honda, among others, formed the Top Tier Gas coalition, to
define a standard for quality gasoline.

http://www.toptiergas.com

 

On a 1 year old, 4700 mile car?

Hardly. If there's carbon buildup in there, Honda can replace the
engine.