How to Use Ethanol

Looking for a fuel alternative to high-priced gasoline? One of the alternatives is ethanol. Nearly all gas stations have an ethanol blend, but now many more stations are selling E85. Here's what you need to do to use ethanol.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Ethanol fuel
• Car

1. Understand the differences in blends. 10% ethanol blends are more common and will run in any normal gasoline engine without modifications or special considerations. E85 is 85% ethanol and requires a Flexible Fuel Vehicle to use it.
2. Check to see if your car is capable of handling ethanol or E85. Ask your dealer or consult your manual to see if your vehicle is a Flexible Fuel Vehicle. There is also a list at the Department of Energy Web site.
3. You might need to upgrade some parts of your fuel system to avoid increased wear and tear. Check the manual to make sure you are using the right oil. When ordering new parts, make sure to specify the fuel type you are using.
4. Visit your local gas station. Check the labels on the pump. Most gas stations have three or more grades.
5. Look for an ethanol sticker. The E85 logo is blue and yellow and plainly reads 85% ethanol. 10% blends are marked as well (often blue and yellow, sometimes with an image of an ear of corn), but are less conspicuous due to its higher interchangeability as a fuel.
6. Fill up with your desired fuel type.

Tips & Warnings

• If your car can run on gas, it can run on gas with up to 10% ethanol as is.
• You might need to replace your fuel filter more often at first. Ethanol is going to clean out your fuel lines quickly and the stuff can build up.
• Don't worry about ethanol freezing in the lines. Leave commercial anti-freezes on the shelf and save your money.
• Do not use E85 if your car is not compatible with the fuel. It will cause damage to your engine.
• If you want to use 100% ethanol, you'll have to make some conversions to your fuel line and engine.