Blender basics.
As much of a problem as tailpipe emission pollution is, there is a way we each can positively impact our environment: pump higher blends of ethanol into your car. Up to 30 percent ethanol, or E30, is good for your engine. Consumers are realizing the emission, economic and engine benefits of mid-level ethanol blends.
When you fill up at a blender pump, you’ll notice that it looks different than pumps at a ‘traditional’ gas station. Historically the higher the octane, the higher the cost. But ethanol replaces toxic aromatics yet still boosts the octane, and that’s how the savings are passed on to you.
At a blender pump, you’ll either see higher octane numbers with lower prices, or the buttons will specifically say an ethanol blend like E20 or E30.
Blender Pump
(Hover over each button to learn more)
E85 or, 85% ethanol, should only be used in Flex Fuel Vehicles. It can be the most affordable blend, but you will see a mileage difference. Ethanol does have less energy content than gasoline and it will be noticeable at the 85% level.
93 represents the highest octane as a super-premium and contains 30 percent ethanol, or E30. Reduces emissions, is often priced less than regular and has no noticeable mileage difference.
91 is a premium blend with 20 percent ethanol, or may be labeled E20. Reduces emissions, is often priced less than regular and has no noticeable mileage difference.
88/89 is a mid-grade blend with 15 percent ethanol. It is called Unleaded 88 at some stations. It reduces emissions, is often priced less than regular and has no noticeable mileage difference. Any vehicle newer than 2001 is approved to use it.
87, or what is commonly referred to as regular unleaded, is what most of us use and the lowest of all blends with only 10 percent ethanol added. 10 percent ethanol is added to all gasoline unless otherwise stated.
Traditional Pump
(Hover over each button to learn more)
87 or regular unleaded contains 10 percent ethanol, unless stated it does not.
89 is a mid-grade fuel with added aromatics to boost octane.
91 is a premium fuel with added aromatics to boost octane. It usually costs 40-50 cents more a gallon than regular 87.
Fill 'er up
Find E15 and E30 near you.
