Shocking truth: can your chevy cruze handle the power of e85?

The Chevy Cruze is a popular compact car known for its fuel efficiency and affordability. As fuel prices continue to rise, many drivers are considering alternative fuel options, including E85. But can the Chevy Cruze take E85?

What is E85?

E85 is a blend of 85% ethanol and 15% gasoline. Ethanol is a renewable fuel produced from plant-based sources, such as corn or sugarcane. E85 is a cleaner-burning fuel that reduces greenhouse gas emissions compared to gasoline.

Can Chevy Cruze Take E85?

The answer is yes, the Chevy Cruze can take E85. However, there are some important considerations:

1. Flex-Fuel Capability

Only certain models of the Chevy Cruze are flex-fuel vehicles, meaning they can run on both gasoline and E85. Flex-fuel Cruzes have a yellow gas cap that reads “E85.”

2. Model Year

Flex-fuel Cruzes were only produced from 2009 to 2017. If your Cruze is a model year outside of this range, it cannot take E85.

3. Fuel Economy

Using E85 in a flex-fuel Cruze will slightly reduce fuel economy compared to using gasoline. This is because E85 has less energy content than gasoline.

Advantages of Using E85

1. Lower Fuel Costs

E85 is typically cheaper than gasoline, especially during periods of high gas prices.

2. Reduced Emissions

E85 burns cleaner than gasoline, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution.

3. Renewable Fuel

Ethanol is a renewable fuel, meaning it is produced from sustainable sources. This helps reduce our dependence on fossil fuels.

Disadvantages of Using E85

1. Reduced Fuel Economy

As mentioned earlier, E85 has less energy content than gasoline, resulting in slightly lower fuel economy.

2. Limited Availability

E85 is not as widely available as gasoline, especially in rural areas.

3. Potential Fuel System Damage

Using E85 in a non-flex-fuel vehicle can damage the fuel system and engine.

Other Considerations

1. Fuel Storage

E85 can absorb moisture from the air, so it should be stored in a sealed container to prevent contamination.

2. Cold Weather Performance

E85 has a lower freeze point than gasoline, which can affect starting in cold weather.

3. Vehicle Maintenance

Flex-fuel vehicles may require more frequent maintenance, such as fuel filter replacements, due to the corrosive nature of ethanol.

The Bottom Line: Weighing the Options

Whether or not to use E85 in your Chevy Cruze depends on several factors, including fuel availability, cost, and your driving habits. If you have a flex-fuel Cruze and have access to E85, it can be a cost-effective and environmentally friendly option. However, if fuel economy is a top priority or E85 is not readily available, gasoline may be a better choice.

Answers to Your Questions

Q: Can I use E85 in any Chevy Cruze?
A: No, only flex-fuel Cruzes from model years 2009 to 2017 can take E85.

Q: Will using E85 void my warranty?
A: No, using E85 in a flex-fuel Cruze will not void the warranty.

Q: How do I know if my Chevy Cruze is flex-fuel?
A: Check the gas cap for a yellow label that reads “E85.