California approves E15 ethanol gasoline, but, is it safe for your car?

The California Air Resources Board (CARB) yesterday approved amendments to the state's gasoline regulations that will allow E15 fuel to be sold at gas stations in the state.

Photo Credit: CARB

E15 fuel is a blend of gasoline with up to 15% ethanol. Previously, the limit was 10% (the fuel was labeled E10).

Gas stations selling the fuel will have a label that states whether the fuel has E10 or E15 gasoline.

However, it is important to note, especially for those of you driving older vehicles, to check your owner's manual (or by other means) to ensure that E10 or E15 gasoline is safe to use. The presence of ethanol in gasoline has caused damage to engine fuel systems in older models and possibly some newer ones as well. The use of E15 may actually void your warranty as well!

Here is a link to CARB's announcement: CARB Approves E15 Fuel

The following may be helpful in determining whether it is safe to use E10 or E15 gasoline, but, be sure to check your owner's manual as stated above: 

Vehicles and Engines Prohibited from Using E15

Pre-2001 light-duty vehicles: Traditional cars, trucks, and SUVs built in model year 2000 or older lack the computer controls and upgraded fuel lines needed to handle higher ethanol. [1, 2]

• Motorcycles and ATVs: Small powertrains and carburetors can suffer severe rubber and plastic corrosion. [1, 2]
• Marine and off-road engines: Boats, snowmobiles, and jet skis are strictly prohibited by the Department of Energy. [1]
• Small utility equipment: Lawn mowers, chainsaws, leaf blowers, and generators will experience rapid fuel system damage. [1, 2]
• Specific manufacturer exceptions: Some specific older or high-performance models (such as certain pre-2014 Honda or older Mazda Skyactiv configurations) advise against E15, so your owner's manual remains the final authority. [1, 2]

Vehicles Prohibited from Using E10

• Classic and vintage cars: Vehicles built before widespread ethanol adoption (generally pre-1980s or older classics) have metallic, rubber, and cork components that degrade when exposed to 10% ethanol unless retrofitted.