Yes, you can put gasoline with ethanol in your car, and you likely already are. The vast majority of gasoline sold in the United States contains up to 10% ethanol, a blend known as E10. This fuel is approved for use in every gasoline-powered car on the road today, regardless of model year. The real question involves higher ethanol blends like E15 (15% ethanol) and E85 (51-83% ethanol), which have specific compatibility requirements.
The key factor is your vehicle's model year and whether it's a Flex-Fuel Vehicle (FFV). FFVs are specifically engineered to run on any blend of gasoline and ethanol, up to E85. You can identify an FFV by checking for a yellow gas cap, badging on the car (like "Flex-Fuel"), or by consulting your owner's manual.
For non-FFV models, the rules are clear:
- Cars 2001 and newer: Approved by the EPA to use E15. This covers most modern vehicles.
- Cars older than 2001, motorcycles, boats, and small engines: Should not use E15 or E85. These engines and their fuel system components (like rubber hoses and seals) were not designed to handle the higher alcohol content, which can cause corrosion and damage over time.
Using the wrong fuel can lead to poor performance, reduced fuel economy, and potential engine damage. Always check your owner's manual for the manufacturer's definitive recommendation.
| Ethanol Blend | Ethanol Percentage | Vehicle Compatibility | Key Considerations |
|---|
| E10 | 10% | All gasoline-powered vehicles | Standard fuel in the U.S.; safe for all cars. |
| E15 | 15% | Model year 2001 and newer, FFVs | Check owner's manual; not for older cars or small engines. |
| E85 | 51-83% | Flex-Fuel Vehicles (FFVs) only | Significantly lower energy content, leading to ~15-27% lower MPG. |
| E0 | 0% (Pure Gasoline) | All vehicles, especially recommended for classic cars and small engines | Harder to find; often more expensive; avoids ethanol-related issues. |
