What is E85? Complete Guide to Flex Fuel
Everything you need to know about E85 ethanol fuel, from composition to benefits and vehicle compatibility.
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Flex-fuel vehicles (FFVs) are designed to run on E85, gasoline, or any mix of the two, giving drivers more flexibility at the pump. Many modern cars, trucks, and SUVs are flex-fuel capable, with manufacturers like Ford, GM, and Chrysler producing a wide range of FFV models.
Many FFVs have a yellow gas cap or a cap labeled "E85/Flex Fuel" to indicate compatibility.
Look for a "Flex Fuel" or "E85" badge on the rear of your vehicle or near the fuel door.
Your owner's manual will confirm if your vehicle is designed to use E85 flex fuel safely.
Not sure if your car is flex-fuel compatible? Read our complete guide to identifying FFVs.
Many major gas station chains sell E85 fuel, including Shell, Exxon, BP, Casey's, Sheetz, Kum & Go, and Maverik, among others. Availability varies by region, with E85 more common in Midwestern states where ethanol production is higher.
The U.S. has over 4,000 E85 stations, with the highest concentration in the Midwest.
E85 prices are usually lower than regular gasoline, with savings varying by location.
E85 has an octane rating of 100-105, offering better performance potential than premium gasoline.
E85 produces up to 40% fewer greenhouse gas emissions compared to regular gasoline.
E85 prices depend on local ethanol supply, fuel taxes, and production costs. It's usually cheaper in Midwestern states where ethanol is produced. Prices can vary significantly by region and season.
Created by M., who started working on cars at 15 and has maintained a lifelong interest in automotive technology and alternative energy. This site was created to make finding E85 fuel easier and more efficient, giving flex fuel vehicle owners the information they need.
Our mission is to help FFV owners save money, reduce their environmental impact, and support American agriculture by making E85 more accessible. Whether you're a daily E85 user or just getting started with flex fuel, we're here to help you find E85 stations near you.
Expert guides and information about E85 flex fuel, from basics to performance tuning
Everything you need to know about E85 ethanol fuel, from composition to benefits and vehicle compatibility.
How to tell if your vehicle is flex fuel compatible and can safely use E85 ethanol.
How to unlock more horsepower with E85 fuel through proper tuning and modifications.
Get answers to common questions about E85 fuel and flex fuel vehicles
E85 is a fuel blend containing 51-83% ethanol mixed with gasoline. The "85" refers to the maximum ethanol content. It's designed for use in flex fuel vehicles (FFVs) and offers benefits including higher octane ratings (100-105), reduced emissions, and support for American agriculture. The actual ethanol percentage varies seasonally - higher in summer, lower in winter for better cold starts.
E85 can only be used in Flex Fuel Vehicles (FFVs). To check if your car is compatible: Look for a yellow gas cap or one labeled "E85/Flex Fuel", check for a yellow fuel door or "Flex Fuel" badge on the vehicle, or consult your owner's manual. Using E85 in a non-FFV can damage your engine and fuel system. Learn more about FFV identification.
E85 typically costs 15-30% less per gallon than regular gasoline. However, because E85 contains less energy per gallon (about 27% less than gasoline), you'll use approximately 25-30% more fuel to travel the same distance. For most FFV owners, E85 still provides modest savings, especially when gas prices are high. Use our station locator to compare current E85 prices in your area. See our detailed cost analysis.
E85 is not bad for flex fuel vehicle engines - they're specifically designed for it. FFVs have ethanol-compatible materials including special fuel lines, seals, and fuel system components. In fact, E85's higher octane can provide cleaner combustion. However, using E85 in a non-flex fuel vehicle can cause damage to rubber seals, fuel lines, and other components not designed for high ethanol content. Read the full facts about E85 and engine safety.
Yes, if you have a Flex Fuel Vehicle. FFVs are designed to run on any blend of E85 and regular gasoline in any ratio. The vehicle's ethanol sensor and computer automatically adjust the fuel mixture for optimal performance. This flexibility is useful when E85 isn't available or you want to extend your driving range. Learn more about mixing fuels.
For comprehensive information about E85 and flex fuel vehicles, visit the Alternative Fuels Data Center or the EPA Renewable Fuel Standard Program. Our blog also has detailed guides on everything from basic E85 facts to performance tuning.
If you're interested in hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, visit HydrogenFuelFinder.com to locate hydrogen fueling stations near you. Like E85, hydrogen is an alternative fuel that reduces dependence on traditional gasoline and offers environmental benefits for compatible vehicles.
Beyond E85, other sustainable options include electric vehicles (EVs), hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, biodiesel for diesel engines, and public transportation. You can also reduce your home's energy footprint by putting solar panels on your home to generate clean electricity. E85 is a great starting point for FFV owners looking to reduce their carbon footprint while using existing infrastructure.
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