What do the numbers mean
E10 and E5 are types of unleaded petrol. The numbers show how much ethanol is in the fuel. E10 has up to 10% ethanol, E5 up to 5%. Both are regular unleaded.
Ethanol is a renewable fuel made from crops like wheat and maize. It’s blended with petrol to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. E10 is the most common fuel at UK stations. E5 is less common and usually more expensive.
Ethanol’s role in fuel is straightforward. It’s a cleaner-burning alternative to pure hydrocarbons. But blending it into petrol isn’t without trade-offs. Higher ethanol content can affect engine performance and fuel economy. For example, E10’s 10% ethanol content means it holds about 3% less energy per litre than E5. That’s why the UK government phased out E5 as the standard in 2011.
E5 is still available at some stations, but its use is declining. Most modern cars built after 2011 are designed to handle E10’s ethanol content. Older models, especially those made before 2011, may not be compatible.
Which cars can use E10
Around 95% of petrol cars on UK roads can use E10, and all petrol cars built since 2011 are approved. Older models, especially those made before 2011, may not be compatible. Roughly 600,000 to 700,000 older vehicles are not compatible and should use E5.
If you’re unsure, check the government’s E10 compatibility tool on gov.uk. It lists which cars can use E10. Classic cars and some older models may require E5. The exact cut-off year for compatibility is 2011.
Why did manufacturers stop making E5-compatible cars? The answer lies in the UK’s emissions targets. By 2011, the government wanted to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. E10 was a compromise: it cuts emissions and is compatible with most modern engines.
But not all engines. Older cars, like the Ford Focus Mk1 (2000-2004), or the Vauxhall Astra G (1998-2004), may have fuel systems that can’t handle the higher ethanol content. Ethanol is corrosive and can degrade rubber and plastic components over time. That’s why using E10 in older cars risks damage to fuel pumps, gaskets, and seals.
Does E10 affect fuel economy
E10 has slightly less energy than E5. This means a small drop, around 1% for most drivers.
The difference is usually minor. For example, a car that does 50 mpg on E5 might do 49-49.5 mpg on E10. Most drivers won’t notice a big change.
Modern cars, however, are optimised for E10. Manufacturers have adjusted engine designs to account for ethanol’s lower energy density. For example, Ford’s 1.5-litre EcoBoost engines run efficiently on E10, with no noticeable drop in performance.
Is E5 super worth the extra cost
E5 is more expensive than E10. In some cases, it’s worth paying the premium. Classic cars and older models designed for lower ethanol blends may run better on E5.
High-performance engines might also benefit. Some manufacturers recommend E5 for cars with high-output engines. For most modern cars, the difference between E10 and E5 is negligible.
E5 is often marketed as a premium fuel. In reality, it’s mostly a marketing tool for cars that don’t need it. Unless your car is specified for E5, the cost isn’t justified.
The price gap between E5 and E10 is a key consideration. E5 can be more expensive than E10. If you drive a lot and your car requires E5, the cost may be worth it. Otherwise, the extra cost is unlikely to be justified.
Some manufacturers, like Jaguar Land Rover, recommend E5 for certain models. Their 2018 Range Rover Sport, for example, is designed to run on E5 without issue. But for the average driver, the cost isn’t worth it.
How to find the best prices for E5 and E10
E5 is not available at all UK stations. Prices vary by brand and location. Use My Fuel Prices to compare E5 and E10 prices near you.
Check the compare fuel prices tool to see which stations offer E5. The prices by brand page shows average costs for E10 and E5. This helps you decide whether the extra cost of E5 is worth it.
The availability of E5 is uneven. In some areas, fewer than 10% of stations sell E5. In rural areas, it’s even rarer. That’s why using My Fuel Prices’ map is essential. It highlights stations that carry E5, even if they’re several miles from your usual fill-up spot.
Pricing also varies by brand. Some stations charge more for E5 to cover the cost of blending and storage.
If you’re considering E5, track prices over a few weeks. E5 can be volatile, with prices fluctuating depending on supply and demand. My Fuel Prices’ historical data tool helps you spot trends and avoid overpaying.
Common questions
Can I use E10 in a car older than 2011?
Not always. Older cars may have fuel systems that aren’t designed for higher ethanol blends. Check the government’s E10 compatibility tool on gov.uk.
Why is E5 more expensive than E10?
E5 is less common and requires more refining. Stations that sell E5 often charge a premium to cover extra costs.
Does E5 improve performance in modern cars?
For most modern cars, E5 doesn’t improve performance. The difference in energy content is too small to make a noticeable impact.
What should I do if my car uses E5?
Stick to E5 if your car is specified for it. Using E10 in incompatible cars can damage the engine over time.
How much does E5 cost compared to E10?
Prices vary. In some areas, E5 is more expensive than E10. Use the compare fuel prices tool to find the best deals near you.
Are there any environmental benefits to using E5?
E5 reduces greenhouse gas emissions compared to pure petrol. But E10 achieves a similar reduction at a lower cost.
Can I mix E5 and E10 in my car?
Yes, but it’s unnecessary. Mixing them doesn’t improve performance or economy. Stick to one fuel type unless your car requires E5.
Why do some stations stop selling E5?
Most UK stations have phased out E5 due to low demand. It’s costly to blend and store, and few drivers need it.
Does E10 affect the longevity of my car’s engine?
Modern engines are designed for E10. Older engines may experience wear, but for most drivers, it’s not a concern.
What’s the average price of E10 in the UK?
As of 2023, 169.4p is the average price for E10 in the UK. E5 is typically more expensive than E10.