How do I know if my car can use E85?
Your car can use E85 only if it's a flex-fuel vehicle (FFV) or explicitly approved by the manufacturer. If it isn't designed for high-ethanol blends, using E85 can reduce performance, harm components, or affect warranties. Here's how to verify compatibility and what to consider before filling up.
Understanding E85 and compatibility
E85 is a gasoline-ethanol blend containing up to 85% ethanol. Vehicles must be engineered to handle ethanol-rich fuels because ethanol can be more corrosive and has different chemical properties than straight gasoline. Most cars sold in the United States and many other markets are not FFVs and cannot use E85, while flex-fuel models are designed to run on any blend from E0 (pure gasoline) to E85. Always verify with official documentation before attempting to fuel with E85.
How to determine if your car can use E85
Follow these steps to confirm compatibility, using official labels and manufacturer information as your guide.
- Look for a Flex-Fuel Vehicle badge (often "FFV" or "Flex Fuel") on the trunk, rear bumper, or fuel filler door, or inspect the fuel door itself for an E85 label.
- Check the owner's manual or the manufacturer's website for explicit statements about E85 or flex-fuel compatibility.
- Check the vehicle's fuel filler cap or surrounding stickers for a label indicating gasoline/E85 compatibility or a maximum ethanol percentage.
- Verify the vehicle's VIN or use the manufacturer's customer portal or a trusted database to confirm FFV status.
- If available, ask your dealer or manufacturer directly to confirm whether your specific trim and engine can use E85 and up to what blend.
Interpreting the results: If you see the FFV badge or explicit documentation stating E85 compatibility, your car can run on E85. If there is no FFV designation or official documentation, do not use E85 unless you get explicit confirmation from the manufacturer.
Common places to find confirmation
Manufacturer's owner manual, the fuel filler door label, the vehicle's window sticker (Monroney label), the manufacturer's official website, or the customer service line.
Practical considerations if your car can use E85
Whether you are FFV or considering substitution, here are factors to keep in mind before fueling with E85.
- Fuel economy and range: E85 generally contains less energy per gallon than gasoline, so you may see a reduction in miles per gallon and driving range — often around 15% to 30% depending on the engine and driving conditions.
- Fuel availability and price: E85 is cheaper per gallon at many stations, but the cost per mile may be similar or higher depending on mpg and local fuel prices.
- Engine and fuel system compatibility: Ethanol can be more corrosive and may affect seals, hoses, and certain sensors if the vehicle is not properly designed for it. Modern FFVs are designed to handle ethanol blends, but older or non-FFVs should not use E85.
- Warranty and maintenance: Using E85 in a non‑FFV can void warranties or lead to repair costs; follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to avoid issues.
- Seasonal variance and labeling: Ethanol content in E85 varies by season and region; always check the station’s label to ensure the blend matches what your vehicle is designed to handle.
In practice, if your vehicle is FFV, use E85 as directed by the manual, and monitor performance and fuel economy. If not FFV, avoid E85 entirely to prevent potential issues.
Summary
Bottom line: Only flex-fuel vehicles or those explicitly approved by the manufacturer should use E85. Verify via badges, manuals, or official sources before fueling. If you can use E85, expect lower MPG and plan accordingly, and watch for station labeling and seasonal ethanol content. When in doubt, consult the dealer or manufacturer to protect your vehicle and warranty.
What happens if I put E85 in a car that doesn't take it?
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 vehicles are E85 compatible?
Many Chevrolet, Ford, and GMC vehicles, including popular models like the Silverado, F-150, and Sierra, are designed to take E85. Other manufacturers such as Dodge, Jeep, and Chrysler also offer flex-fuel vehicles that can run on E85. It is essential to confirm that any specific vehicle is a flex-fuel vehicle (FFV) by checking the owner's manual, looking for a flex-fuel badge or yellow gas cap, or by using the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
Chevrolet
Silverado, Equinox, Tahoe, Suburban, Impala, Malibu, Trax, Trailblazer, and HHR.
Ford
- F-150
- Explorer
- Expedition
- Escape
- Super Duty (F-250, F-350, F-450)
- Transit Cargo Van
- E-250 van
GMC
Sierra, Yukon, Savana (2500/3500), and Envista.
Dodge, Chrysler, and Jeep
RAM 1500, Charger, Durango, Town & Country, Grand Caravan, Cherokee, and Grand Cherokee.
Other manufacturers
- Dacia (various models with "Hi-Flex")
- Jaguar (XJ, E-PACE)
- Land Rover (Range Rover)
- Volkswagen (Tiguan)
How to confirm your vehicle can use E85
- Check the owner's manual: The easiest way is to consult your owner's manual for fuel recommendations.
- Look for a badge or yellow cap: Many flex-fuel vehicles have a badge on the exterior or a yellow gas cap with "E85" labeled on it.
- Use a VIN lookup: You can use your car's VIN to search for its specifications on the manufacturer's website.
- Contact the manufacturer: If you're still unsure, contact the car manufacturer to confirm.
How to tell if your vehicle is E85 compatible?
Check your owner's manual, the fuel door or fuel cap to see if your vehicle is E85 compatible. 2008 and newer vehicles will have a yellow fuel cap and a badge.
Can you use E85 gas in any car?
No, you cannot put E85 in any car; it is only safe for flex-fuel vehicles (FFVs) or cars that have been converted to run on it. Using E85 in a standard gasoline car can cause engine damage due to its high ethanol content and because the fuel system is not designed to handle it. You can identify a flex-fuel vehicle by checking for a yellow gas cap, an "E85" or "Flex Fuel" label, or the corresponding information in your owner's manual.
This video explains the risks of putting E85 in a non-flex-fuel vehicle: 49sBo BuildsYouTube · Jun 22, 2019
Signs your car is flex-fuel compatible
- A yellow gas cap
- A yellow ring around the gas cap opening
- A badge on the car that says "Flex Fuel," "FFV," or "E85"
- Information confirming compatibility in your owner's manual
What happens if you use E85 in a non-flex-fuel vehicle
- Engine damage: The higher ethanol content can corrode or degrade parts not designed for it, such as fuel lines, gaskets, and seals.
- Performance issues: Your car may run poorly, with symptoms like trouble starting, engine stumbling, misfires, and a loss of power.
- Check engine light: Issues with the air-fuel ratio can cause the check engine light to come on.
- Voided warranty: Using E85 in an incompatible vehicle can void the manufacturer's warranty.
What to do if you accidentally put E85 in a non-flex-fuel car
- Do not start the engine repeatedly. This could cause more damage.
- Have the fuel tank professionally drained and flushed. You can call a tow truck to take the vehicle to a service station for a fuel system flush.
