Can I use regular gas in a flex fuel car?
The short answer is no, you should not use regular gasoline in a flex fuel vehicle (FFV). Flex fuel cars are designed to run on a blend of gasoline and ethanol, typically up to 85% ethanol (E85). Using regular gas in a flex fuel car can potentially damage the engine and fuel system.
Understanding Flex Fuel Vehicles
Flex fuel vehicles are equipped with special fuel systems that allow them to run on a variety of fuel blends, including regular gasoline, E85 (85% ethanol, 15% gasoline), or any mixture in between. This flexibility is achieved through modifications to the engine, fuel system, and onboard computer. Flex fuel cars have sensors that detect the ethanol content of the fuel and adjust the engine accordingly.
Why Regular Gas is Not Recommended
Using regular gasoline in a flex fuel vehicle is not recommended for a few key reasons:
- Fuel Compatibility: Flex fuel vehicles are designed to run on higher ethanol blends like E85. Regular gas has a lower octane rating and different combustion properties that may not be compatible with the engine and fuel system of an FFV.
- Engine Damage: The higher ethanol content in E85 fuel provides additional lubrication for the fuel pump and other components. Using regular gas, which lacks this lubrication, can lead to accelerated wear and potential damage over time.
- Reduced Performance: Flex fuel vehicles are tuned to optimize performance when running on higher ethanol blends. Using regular gas may result in reduced power, fuel efficiency, and overall vehicle performance.
To ensure the longevity and proper operation of your flex fuel vehicle, it's crucial to use the recommended fuel, which is typically E85 or a blend containing at least 15% ethanol.
Filling Up Your Flex Fuel Vehicle
When refueling your flex fuel car, look for the yellow fuel pump handle or the "E85" label to identify the appropriate ethanol-blended fuel. Avoid using the regular gasoline pump, as that will not provide the necessary fuel compatibility for your vehicle.
By following the manufacturer's recommendations and using the correct fuel for your flex fuel car, you can enjoy the benefits of increased fuel options and potentially lower fuel costs, while also protecting the long-term health of your vehicle's engine and fuel system.
What to do if you put flex-fuel in a regular car?
Once you've recognized the mistake, stop your car immediately to avoid additional damage. Then, it's a good idea to call for a tow and to get your system flushed by a trusted auto technician. In both cases, your fuel tank will need to be drained, and your fuel lines will require a thorough cleaning.
Can you switch back and forth between 87 and 89 gas?
Your car will be fine, but you may notice a decrease in performance. It's best to fill up with the same type of gas that you're already using. If you use a lower-than-recommended octane, fuel can combust too quickly for your engine to take full advantage of it.
What happens if you accidentally put 87 instead of 91 in a Lexus?
Use of unleaded gasoline with an octane rating lower than what is listed for your model year vehicle could potentially result in engine knocking. If the octane rating used is less than required, damage to the engine may occur and which could void the vehicle warranty.
What is the downside of flex-fuel?
The cons of flex-fuel vehicles are that they have less mileage, have an effect on crop economy, and have limited availability. In an emergency, you can put standard gasoline in your flex-fuel car.
Can you go back and forth between flex-fuel and regular gas?
Flex-Fuel Vehicles: If your vehicle is a flex-fuel vehicle (FFV), it is specifically designed to run on E85, regular gasoline, or any blend of the two. You can switch between them without any issues.
What happens if you put regular gas in a flex-fuel car?
Using any octane level of gasoline in a flex-fuel vehicle is acceptable. The sensors in an FFV detect whether the fuel is pure gasoline or 85% ethanol and make necessary changes for optimal fuel injection and timing of combustion. Putting E85 in a car not designed for flexible fuel can be harmful.
What will E85 do to a regular engine?
However, it is NOT recommended to put E85 fuel in any vehicle other than a flex fuel vehicle. Doing so can ruin the engine and void the manufacturer's warranty. In addition to needing to be used in a flex fuel vehicle, E85 is not as widely available in some parts of the United States.
What kind of gas can I put in a flex fuel vehicle?
The flex-fuel designation generally means you can put E85 gasoline or regular unleaded gas in your vehicle.
What happens if I put 87 instead of 85?
Engine computers can usually adjust their timing to account for the increased octane levels, so if you put premium gas in a regular car, you probably won't notice anything. However, some engines are not designed to burn higher-octane fuel, and you may see a reduction in performance and fuel economy.
What is the downside of flex fuel?
The cons of flex-fuel vehicles are that they have less mileage, have an effect on crop economy, and have limited availability. In an emergency, you can put standard gasoline in your flex-fuel car.
