Drivers have several options when they go to gas station pumps. Of course, there’s regular gas, midgrade, and premium. However, there is also the option for flex fuel, and many wonder what cars can use it. Spoiler alert: not all cars can use flex-fuel, and putting it into the wrong vehicles can cause damage. Here’s what you need to know.
What cars use flex fuel?
There are many types of gasoline for our cars at gas station pumps, and adding flex fuel into the mix can be confusing. According to the Department of Energy, flex-fuel is a combination of gasoline and ethanol. Specifically, it’s about 51 to 83% ethanol, and it’s also known as E85. The exact percentage of ethanol in the fuel depends on a few circumstances, including the season.
So, what cars use flex-fuel since it’s not designed for all models? Drivers will know if their vehicles use this type of fuel based on a few markings. Often, the fuel cap will be yellow, or the gas door will say either flex fuel or E85. Some models that use flex-fuel even have specific badging that says so on the ear close to the nameplate. Of course, owners can also consult their manuals.
Of course, using the proper gasoline when filling up at gas station pumps is always essential. Naturally, using flex fuel in cars that don’t take it can cause poor performance and make starting the vehicle more difficult. Additionally, doing this could damage the fuel system, which is not a cheap fix.
There are drawbacks to this type of fuel from gas station pumps
Of course, many of the best new cars use flex fuel. However, this doesn’t mean this type of fuel is flawless regarding what drivers can expect. For starters, flex-fuel is typically less efficient than other options, meaning people have to pay more at the pump. However, it should be noted that some doubt this claim about cars that use E85 fuel having worse fuel economy.
Additionally, some believe that flex-fuel can cause car engines to corrode. This is the case because ethanol absorbs dirt more than other fuels, which can even damage cars that require it. Still, it’s unclear how substantial this damage would be.
Of course, there are also advantages. For starters, this type of gasoline is better for the environment, which is one reason so many automakers build cars that use it. Additionally, while being less efficient, flex-fuel is typically cheaper.
