What Are the Disadvantages of Using E85 in a Vehicle?

The use of E85 in your vehicle is not without its drawbacks. These include:

1. Reduced power in certain FFV models: Some FFV models experience a decrease in power when running on E85. This is due to the lower energy density of ethanol compared to gasoline, which requires more fuel for the same amount of energy produced.
2. Higher water content: Ethanol has a higher water content than gasoline, which can lead to corrosion or other damage in certain vehicles. To prevent this, it is important to make sure your vehicle is properly sealed and you are regularly monitoring the fuel tank for water buildup.
3. Incompatible engines: E85 can only be used in FFVs and other cars designed specifically to run on a blend of ethanol and gasoline. Regular gasoline engines cannot use E85 without modification.
4. More frequent maintenance: Your engine may require more frequent maintenance when using this fuel than with gasoline.
5. E85 may not be as readily available in certain areas: E85 is not as widely available as regular gasoline, so you may have to travel farther distances to find a fueling station.
6. Not as efficient as gasoline: This means that you need to use more of it to get the same amount of power. In fact, your car's fuel economy can drop by up to 30% when you switch to E85.
7. E85 can damage your car's engine: Ethanol is a corrosive substance that can wear down your engine's components over time. Ethanol can also cause problems with your car's fuel system and ignition system.

Despite the drawbacks, many car owners believe that the benefits of using E85 outweigh the negatives. The lower fuel costs and reduced emissions can be very attractive for those looking to save money or be more environmentally friendly. Additionally, since E85 is a renewable resource, it helps to reduce our dependence on foreign oil sources and stimulates economic activity from domestic agriculture.