ghstudio

I just noticed that the gas cap on my car (bought in Florida) says that I can use E-85? Is that true...will I get full power/etc if I burn E85 (if it's even sold here)?

GregTR

You're the first person who actually has a FFV (Flex-Fuel Vehicle). And yes, you can drive on E-85 but your mileage and/or power will suffer.

https://mbworld.org/forums/e-class-w...look-like.html

pcsgrp

I have a 2013E350 with flex fuel and while I can use E85, I have never done so. I travel to the Midwest often and there is a lot of E85 available. However, considering that the E85 has less energy/gallon hence lousy mpg's it just isn't worth it. I had a flex fuel ford that could also use anything up to E85 and when I used it two winters ago, the car ran really bad. It took a tankfull to get the car running right again. I also have been told (I don't know if it is true or not) although you can use E85, when you bring your vehicle in for service it is important to let them know because there are some other parts that are not normally checked that have to be checked and replaced as necessary.

SteveFromMN

With direct injection we are now close to being a diesel which will run on almost anything. I think gasohol is a failed concept and refuse to even try it.
Like others have said you will get lousy performance. YMMV

telemakhos

My independent mechanic told me to avoid fuel with any ethanol in it as it is corrosive to certain engine parts over the long term.

pcsgrp

Exactly! Not only is it very corrosive, but it also holds a lot of water. Most good mechanics will tell you to avoid even the 10-15% ethanol fuels which is hard to do in the northeast.

DG_Guy

I live outside Chicago and almost never see gas without ethanol. The exception is the odd station that has 100 octane racing fuel.