The Effect of Ethanol on Cars

With laws in almost every state making mandatory the inclusion of ethanol in automotive fuels, its effect on vehicles has become a serious concern for the average person. How it affects the mileage, performance, and reliability of their vehicles are the most voiced issues today. With it now being used by almost every person who owns a vehicle, understanding its true qualities has become a necessity in order to allay any anxieties it may cause.

History

Ethanol has been used in automobiles since Henry Ford designed the Model T, which ran on alcohol.

Corrosive Qualities

Ethanol has a corrosive effect on some older engines manufactured before 1998. This is due to engines of this period still incorporating material susceptible to damage from alcohol, and ethanol's tendency to scour clean the interior of older fuel systems. This cleaning action loosens years of accumulated deposits, causing them to clog fuel filters and small passages in fuel systems, adversely affecting performance. Ethanol has a corrosive effect on rubber, fiberglass and other materials that were once used extensively in automotive engines but are now being phased out of use.

Ethanol Compensation

After 1998, automakers began incorporating materials that are resistant to ethanol's solvent qualities. Vehicles manufactured after this date also make use of ethanol's distinct advantages allowing them to achieve even greater efficiency. Vehicles manufactured after 1998 experience no ill effects from ethanol, and are designed to operate at optimal performance based on its presence in fuel.

Performance

Ethanol has the highest performance rating of all fuels on the market and is excellent for use in high compression/high performance engines. Some professional automotive racing teams have switched to 100 percent ethanol for their competition vehicles. Ethanol has properties which allow it to act as antifreeze in fuel, making the addition of additives to gasoline in colder climates unnecessary.

Mileage

Gas mileage with ethanol is somewhat lower than with traditional gasoline, with the average being 2 percent lower, making this decrease negligible to the average car owner.

Current Status

Blended gasoline containing ethanol is approved by all manufacturers of vehicles in the United States. Some manufacturers recommend its use due to it burning cleaner than traditional gasoline.

References

• Renewable Fuels Association: Ethanol Facts

Resources

• Colorado State University Extension: Alcohol for Motor Fuels