Understanding E85: Key Facts You Need to Know Before Filling Up

E85 fuel has gained attention as an alternative to traditional gasoline, offering potential benefits for both the environment and your vehicle. But before you decide to fill up with E85, it’s essential to understand what it is, how it works, and what you should consider to make an informed choice.

E85 fuel pump nozzle at a gas station

What Is E85 Fuel?

E85 is a type of ethanol fuel blend that contains up to 85% ethanol and 15% gasoline. Ethanol is an alcohol-based fuel made primarily from corn, sugarcane, or other plant materials. This blend is designed to be used in flexible-fuel vehicles (FFVs) that can run on gasoline, ethanol, or any mixture of the two.

The high ethanol content makes E85 different from regular gasoline, which typically contains little to no ethanol. Ethanol burns cleaner than gasoline, producing fewer emissions of certain pollutants, which is why E85 is often promoted as a greener fuel option.

How Does E85 Affect Your Vehicle?

Using E85 requires a vehicle specifically designed or modified to handle the higher ethanol content. Flexible-fuel vehicles come with fuel system components and engine calibrations that tolerate ethanol’s corrosive properties and different combustion characteristics.

Performance and Fuel Economy

• Power output: Ethanol has a higher octane rating than regular gasoline, which can improve engine performance and reduce knocking.

• Fuel economy: E85 contains less energy per gallon than gasoline, so vehicles running on E85 usually experience a decrease in miles per gallon (MPG). On average, expect about 25-30% fewer miles per gallon compared to gasoline.

• Engine wear: Ethanol can be more corrosive to certain materials, so using E85 in a non-FFV can cause damage to fuel lines, seals, and injectors.

  
  

Vehicle Compatibility

Not all cars can use E85. Check your vehicle’s owner manual or look for a badge indicating flexible-fuel capability. Using E85 in a non-compatible vehicle can lead to engine problems and void warranties.

Environmental Impact of E85

E85 is often touted as a cleaner alternative to gasoline because ethanol burns cleaner and reduces greenhouse gas emissions. Here are some key points:

• Lower carbon emissions: Ethanol is renewable and can reduce carbon dioxide emissions by up to 20-30% compared to gasoline.

• Renewable source: Since ethanol is made from plants, it can be replenished annually, unlike fossil fuels.

• Land use concerns: Growing crops for ethanol requires land, water, and energy, which can offset some environmental benefits if not managed sustainably.

  
  

What You Should Know Before Using E85

Availability and Cost

E85 is not as widely available as regular gasoline. It is mostly found in certain regions, especially in the Midwest United States where corn production is high. Prices for E85 can be lower than gasoline, but because of lower fuel economy, the cost savings may not always be significant.

Fueling Tips

• Check compatibility: Only use E85 if your vehicle is designed for it.

• Monitor fuel economy: Expect reduced mileage and plan accordingly.

• Seasonal blends: Some regions adjust ethanol blends seasonally to improve cold-weather performance.

  
  

Flexible-fuel vehicle dashboard displaying E85 fuel option

Maintenance Considerations

Using E85 may require more frequent maintenance checks, especially for fuel filters and spark plugs, due to ethanol’s different combustion properties. Always follow your vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations.

Benefits and Drawbacks of E85

Benefits

• Renewable and reduces dependence on fossil fuels

• Can lower greenhouse gas emissions

• Higher octane rating can improve engine performance in some cases

• Often cheaper per gallon than gasoline

  
  

Drawbacks

• Lower energy content reduces fuel economy

• Limited availability in many areas

• Not compatible with all vehicles

• Potential for increased maintenance costs

  
  

Gas station with E85 fuel pumps and clear signage

Final Thoughts on Using E85

E85 offers a renewable fuel option that can reduce environmental impact and support energy independence. However, it is not a perfect solution for every driver or vehicle. Understanding your car’s compatibility, the fuel’s effects on performance and economy, and the availability in your area will help you decide if E85 is right for you.

If you drive a flexible-fuel vehicle and have access to E85, trying it out can be a practical way to reduce your carbon footprint. Keep track of your vehicle’s performance and fuel economy to see how it compares to regular gasoline. For those with non-FFVs, sticking to gasoline is safer and more cost-effective.