How Long Can E85 Be Stored?

E85 is an alternative fuel typically consisting of 85% ethanol and 15% gasoline. It can be used in flex-fuel vehicles (FFVs), which are designed to run on gasoline, E85, or a mix of the two. While E85 typically contains less energy than gasoline, it typically burns cleaner and produces less greenhouse gas emissions.

E85 can be stored in the same way as gasoline. It is recommended, however, that E85 be used within three months of storage to minimize degradation and ensure optimal performance. To extend the storage life of E85, it is important to store it in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight.

If e85 is not stored properly, it can degrade into lower-quality fuel and cause engine damage. The most common cause of poor e85 storage is water contamination. When water gets into the fuel, it can break down the ethanol and create a corrosive mixture that can eat away at engine parts. If you suspect your e85 has been contaminated, it's best to have it checked by a professional before using it.

Worth a look: Engine Misfire

The risks of storing e85 for too long are twofold. First, e85 is an oxygenated fuel, meaning it contains additives that allow it to burn cleaner than regular gasoline. However, these oxygenates can also cause corrosion in fuel storage tanks and lines if the e85 is not used within a certain timeframe. Second, e85 is a highly volatile fuel, meaning it can easily evaporate and become less effective as a fuel over time. If e85 is stored for too long, it can become less effective as a fuel and more difficult to start engines.

The ethanol in gasohol (E10) and flex-fuel vehicles (E85) can attract water. Most water in fuel is "free water" which is easy to see and remove. However, " humidity can condense inside fuel tanks and containers to form " dissolved water " which is harder to detect. Small amounts of dissolved water are not harmful. But if a tank of E85 has a lot of dissolved water, it can cause engine damage.

The problems caused by water in fuel are:

1) Water can corrode fuel lines, fuel injectors and other engine parts.

2) Water can freeze and block fuel lines.

3) Water can dilute the lubricating oil in an engine, causing premature wear.

4) Water can cause engine "knocking" or "pinging."

5) Water can cause an engine to "hydrolock," meaning the engine stops running because the water has turned to steam and fills up the cylinders.

The best way to prevent water damage is to buy fuel from a reputable source and to store it in a clean, dry place. If you suspect your fuel may be contaminated, have it checked by a qualified technician.