Is E85 Fuel Right for Your Vehicle Even If Your Car is Designed for E85?

When it comes to alternative fuels, E85 has garnered significant attention due to its blend of 85% ethanol and 15% gasoline. While E85 is specifically designed for use in flex-fuel vehicles (FFVs) to handle higher ethanol content, it's crucial to understand whether this fuel is suitable for your car. Below, we explore the nuances and potential impacts of using E85 in your vehicle, especially if it is designed to accommodate this fuel type.

Compatibility

First and foremost, verifying that your car is indeed a flex-fuel vehicle (FFV) is essential. If you have a FFV, using E85 is generally safe. However, if your car isn't designed to handle the higher ethanol content, there is a risk of engine and fuel system damage. The higher percentage of ethanol can corrode certain engine components and fuel system parts not built to withstand this fuel type. This is a critical consideration for any driver contemplating the use of E85.

Fuel Economy

E85 is known for providing lower fuel economy compared to regular gasoline due to its lower energy density. Ethanol has fewer BTUs per gallon than gasoline, which can lead to decreased mileage per gallon. Drivers often notice a difference on long highway trips, where the fuel economy observed in their vehicles may drop. In my experience with my 2018 Nissan Frontier, I observed similar results. My observations suggest that while E85 can be used safely if your car is FFV, the fuel economy may not be as efficient as gasoline, especially on long distances.

Cold Weather Performance

The performance of E85 in cold weather conditions can be unpredictable due to its ethanol content. Ethanol tends to have a higher volatility than gasoline, which can cause issues in extremely cold temperatures. Drivers in regions with harsh winters may experience starting difficulties or other performance issues. This is an important consideration, especially if you drive in areas where temperatures often drop significantly.

Performance Improvement

Some drivers report improved performance with E85, often attributed to its higher octane rating. However, the performance benefits can vary based on the specific vehicle and driving conditions. My testing with my Nissan Frontier showed mixed results, with both E85 and 87 octane regular unleaded fuel types performing similarly on long highway trips. In city driving conditions, the performance difference was more pronounced.

Availability

Another factor to consider is the availability of E85. While it may be more accessible in some areas, it is not as widely available as regular gasoline. Drivers should consider the accessibility of E85 when making fuel choices. For long trips, having a fueling plan that includes accessible E85 stations is essential.

Personal Experiment with E85

To explore the fuel economy and performance of E85, I conducted a not-so-scientific experiment with my 2018 Nissan Frontier. I started with a full tank of 87 octane regular unleaded fuel and observed an MPg (miles per gallon) of 19.5. When I switched to E85, the observed MPg was 19.3 on the highway. However, in city driving conditions, E85 resulted in a significantly lower MPg of 14.1, whereas 87 octane regular unleaded showed an observed MPg of 16.3. These results indicate that while E85 can be efficient on long trips, it may not be the best choice for daily city driving. Ultimately, the savings on fuel costs can be significant, but the loss of fuel economy in city driving conditions may outweigh the benefits for some drivers.

Conclusion

While E85 can be a viable option for vehicles designed to use it, it's essential to consider the potential impacts on fuel economy and performance. Drivers should consult their vehicle's owner manual for specific recommendations and conduct their own tests to determine the optimal fuel choice for their driving needs. Whether E85 is a good fit for your vehicle depends on your driving habits, the availability of the fuel, and your personal fuel budget.