Unleaded 88 fuel, also known as E15, is increasingly available at gas stations, particularly in areas like Ohio. As more drivers encounter this fuel option, a common question arises: Will Unleaded 88 Damage My Car? With rising gas prices and a focus on alternative fuels, understanding the facts about Unleaded 88 is crucial for every car owner. This article delves into what Unleaded 88 is, its potential impacts on your vehicle, and whether it’s a safe and smart choice for your car.
What is Unleaded 88 (E15) Fuel?
Unleaded 88 is a gasoline blend containing up to 15% ethanol. In contrast, most regular unleaded gasoline sold across the United States is E10, meaning it contains 10% ethanol. This increase in ethanol content is the primary difference and the source of many questions surrounding Unleaded 88.
Ethanol is a biofuel typically derived from corn. Advocates of Unleaded 88 highlight several potential benefits, including lower prices at the pump and reduced greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional gasoline. Farmers and agricultural groups also support E15 as it creates demand for corn, boosting the agricultural economy.
Kelly Harsh, a Delaware County farmer and board member of the Ohio Corn and Wheat Growers Association, points out the advantages: “It has lower greenhouse gas emissions than regular gas, it adds to the rural economy, and it costs consumers less in the gas tank.”
However, it’s important to consider all aspects of Unleaded 88 to make an informed decision for your vehicle.
Fuel Economy and Environmental Considerations
One common concern about Unleaded 88 is its impact on fuel economy. Experts acknowledge that ethanol has a lower energy content than gasoline. As Denton Cinquegrana, chief oil analyst for the Oil Price Information Service, explains, “the energy content for ethanol is less than gas.” Gasoline provides around 43 megajoules of energy per kilogram, while ethanol provides about 30.
A Sheetz gas station displaying prices including Unleaded 88, highlighting its position as a lower-cost fuel option for consumers looking to save money at the pump.
This difference in energy content suggests that Unleaded 88 could result in slightly lower gas mileage compared to regular unleaded gasoline. However, experts like Glenn Lipscomb, a chemical engineering professor at the University of Toledo, believe this reduction is likely to be minimal in real-world driving conditions. “I suspect most people will have a hard time seeing the actual reduction,” Lipscomb states. “It could be masked by other factors like weather, how you drive, tire pressure, but it’s going to be really, really close in terms of fuel economy.”
From an environmental perspective, Unleaded 88 offers a slight advantage in terms of carbon emissions. Studies, such as the one conducted by Georgios Karavalakis at the University of California Riverside, indicate that E15 can lead to a decrease in tailpipe emissions. Karavalakis, who leads an experimental research program on combustion engines, concluded after studying E15, “It’s a beneficial fuel and our study showed that. Most of the tailpipe emissions from a fleet of 20 vehicles (we tested) decreased.”
While a full life-cycle assessment is necessary for a comprehensive understanding of the environmental impact, the plant-based nature of ethanol generally means it produces fewer carbon emissions during production compared to gasoline.
Is Unleaded 88 Safe for Your Car? Addressing the Damage Question
The most pressing question for car owners is whether Unleaded 88 will harm their vehicles. Despite some misinformation circulating online, the consensus among experts and official sources is that Unleaded 88 is safe for most modern cars.
Robert White, vice president of industry relations for the Renewable Fuels Association, emphasizes, “It’s a tested and proven fuel.” The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has approved E15 for use in all passenger vehicles manufactured in 2001 and newer. This EPA approval is a significant endorsement of the fuel’s safety for a vast majority of cars on the road today.
Ahmet Selamet, a senior fellow at Ohio State University’s Center for Automotive Research, also dismisses concerns about damage: “People will make a lot of claims that they can’t stand behind,” regarding misinformation about E15. He suggests that the drawbacks are generally small and manageable.
Ahmet Selamet, a senior fellow at Ohio State University’s Center for Automotive Research, offering expert opinion on the claims and realities of using Unleaded 88 fuel in modern vehicles.
However, there are a few important caveats to consider:
- Vehicle Age and Type: While generally safe for post-2001 vehicles, some high-performance vehicles may still recommend premium gasoline. Always consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for specific fuel recommendations.
- Seasonal and Infrequent Use: The EPA advises against using E15 in vehicles that are stored for extended periods or used seasonally, such as boats, lawnmowers, and some motorcycles. Ethanol can absorb water, and if left sitting for long periods, it could potentially cause issues in older fuel systems not designed for higher ethanol blends. For regularly driven cars, this is not typically a concern.
Potential Downsides and Considerations
Beyond the question of damage, there are a few other points to consider when deciding whether to use Unleaded 88:
- Fuel Storage: As mentioned, ethanol can absorb moisture. For vehicles not driven regularly, this could be a concern. Fuel stabilizers can mitigate this issue if you plan to store a vehicle for an extended period with E15 in the tank.
- Slightly Reduced Fuel Economy (Potentially): While often negligible, a minor decrease in fuel economy is possible. However, this is often offset by the lower price of Unleaded 88.
- Availability: Unleaded 88 is not as widely available as regular unleaded gasoline. While its availability is increasing, especially with chains like Sheetz expanding its offerings, it may not be an option at every gas station.
Unleaded 88 vs. Regular Unleaded: Making the Choice
Ultimately, the decision to use Unleaded 88 often comes down to price and personal preference. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Feature | Unleaded 88 (E15) | Regular Unleaded (E10) |
|---|---|---|
| Ethanol Content | Up to 15% | Around 10% |
| Price | Generally cheaper | Typically more expensive |
| Fuel Economy | Potentially slightly lower | Slightly higher (negligible difference) |
| Emissions | Slightly lower carbon emissions | Slightly higher carbon emissions |
| Engine Safety | Safe for most cars (2001 and newer) | Safe for all gasoline cars |
| EPA Approval | Approved for 2001+ passenger vehicles | Standard fuel, approved for all gasoline cars |
| Availability | Less widespread, but growing | Widely available |
Daniel Ciolkosz, an associate professor of agricultural and biological engineering at Penn State University, suggests a practical approach: “Run a tank under normal conditions with regular unleaded and run a tank with unleaded 88 and see what’s the difference,” he advises. He believes Unleaded 88 is worth buying if it is at least 5% cheaper than regular unleaded.
Conclusion: Unleaded 88 – A Safe and Economical Choice for Many
For the vast majority of drivers with cars manufactured in 2001 or later, Unleaded 88 is unlikely to damage your vehicle and presents a potentially more economical and slightly more environmentally friendly fuel option. While a minor decrease in fuel economy is possible, it is often offset by the lower price at the pump.
If you are looking to save money on gas and drive a compatible vehicle, Unleaded 88 is worth considering. As long as you drive a relatively modern car regularly and the price is right, switching to Unleaded 88 is a safe bet. Always refer to your vehicle’s manual for the manufacturer’s fuel recommendations to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
