Not All Cars Can Use the New Cheaper Gas Blend

With gas prices climbing above $4 per gallon for the first time since 2022, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is trying to offer relief by allowing broader sales of E15 gasoline (also called unleaded 88). This fuel blend contains more ethanol—typically derived from corn—and less gasoline, making it 5–10 cents cheaper per gallon than regular fuel.

The EPA has been issuing temporary summer waivers since 2022 to allow E15 sales during warmer months, when it was previously restricted due to concerns about increased smog. The latest move continues that trend, aiming to ease costs as fuel prices spike.

The Upside

• Lower cost at the pump
• Ethanol can burn cleaner than gasoline, potentially reducing some emissions
• Widely available in parts of the Midwest

The Downsides

• Not safe for all vehicles:
  • Only approved for cars model year 2001 and newer
  • Not suitable for motorcycles, boats, small engines (like lawn mowers), or older vehicles

Experts are skeptical. Because E15 isn’t widely available nationwide, its impact on overall gas prices may be limited. Some analysts argue that any savings at the pump could be offset by rising grocery costs.

There’s a cheaper fuel at some gas pumps – can your car use it?