Helping Customers Understand Ethanol Fuels: A BG Guide for Workshop Staff
As ethanol-blended fuels like E10 and E85 become more common at Australian service stations, customers often have questions or concerns about how these fuels affect their vehicles. This guide is designed to help staff confidently explain the key facts and provide practical advice to customers about using ethanol fuel.
1. Does Ethanol Impact Fuel Economy?
Yes, but only slightly in most cases. Let customers know that ethanol contains less energy than regular petrol. For example:
• Regular unleaded petrol: ~31.8 MJ/L (megajoules per litre)
• Ethanol (pure): ~21.2 MJ/L
• E10: ~31 MJ/L (about 2.5–3% lower fuel economy)
Advice: If you’re using E10, you might notice a very slight decrease in fuel economy. Usually not enough to make a big difference in day-to-day driving.
2. Can All Cars Use Ethanol-Blended Fuel?
Most modern vehicles can use E10, but not all can use E85. Vehicles sold in Australia since the 1980s are generally compatible with E10. However, E85 requires a Flex-Fuel Vehicle (FFV) specifically designed to handle high ethanol content.
Advice: Your vehicle is fine to run on E10 unless it’s an older model or a high-performance engine. Only use E85 if your car is a Flex-Fuel model, which will be clearly indicated by the manufacturer.”
3. Is Ethanol a Problem in Cold Weather?
It can be. Ethanol has a lower volatility than petrol, which can make starting a car harder in cold climates. While this isn’t a big issue in most parts of Australia, it may matter in colder regions or for vehicles stored over winter.
Advice: If you’re in a colder region or the car will be sitting for a while, we recommend keeping the tank topped up with regular unleaded or using a fuel additive to help with cold starts.
4. Can Ethanol Affect Older Cars or Small Engines?
Yes, especially those built before 1986. Older cars and small engines (like mowers or boats) may not be designed for ethanol. Ethanol can degrade rubber seals, hoses, and gaskets, and attract water, which leads to corrosion or performance issues.
Advice: If the vehicle or equipment is older, it’s safer to stick to premium unleaded or use a fuel treatment that helps protect against ethanol-related wear.
5. Can Ethanol Cause Fuel Filter Blockage or Deposits?
Temporarily, yes. When switching from regular petrol to E10 or E85, ethanol can dislodge old fuel system deposits, which may clog filters. Over time, this stabilises, especially in well-maintained systems.
Advice: If you’re new to using ethanol-blended fuel, consider using a BG fuel treatment during the transition to keep injectors and filters clean.
6. Can Ethanol Lead to Engine Damage or Corrosion?
Not directly, but it can contribute to issues if unmanaged. Ethanol is mildly acidic and draws in water, which can cause corrosion in metal parts over time. Modern vehicles have protective coatings, but older or improperly maintained cars are more vulnerable.
Advice: We recommend regular use of a quality fuel additive like BG Supercharge® II or BG 44K® to neutralise acids and prevent corrosion and deposits—especially for high-mileage or performance vehicles.
Recommended BG Products for Customers using Ethanol Fuels
You can help customers maintain performance and avoid ethanol-related issues by recommending the right BG products:
• BG 44K® – Removes deposits from injectors and combustion chambers.
• BG Supercharge® II – Protects fuel systems from corrosion and acidity.
• BG Advanced Formula MOA® – Prevents engine wear and oxidation in the crankcase.
• BG Engine Performance Restoration (PN 109) – Keeps piston rings free-moving and protects emissions systems.
