[BlueTopaz]

Might consider this conversion. E85 here is now at $1.16 gallon. Regular is $1.59 and premium is $1.98.

 

[BlueTopaz]

What most don't like is the lower MPG running E85, AKA FlexFuel. Around here it is still less expensive to run FF over 93. Sure MPG might drop from say 32mpg down to 25mpg but if you calculate, there is a cool app for this called Flex Fuel Calculator. You put in the MPG and price of the FF and the MPG and price of 93 and it will calculate the difference and show you the cost. The difference here between FF and 93, it is still less expensive to use FF.

Plus I like the benefits of it burning cleaner. My used oil analysis all started coming back with improvements once I started mixing in FF into the vehicles. So for my non FF vehicles I usually mix it 40/60, 40% FF and 60% gas.

I have run 100% FF in my 2002 Silverado, it runs great on it but after a full tank it kicks a lean code on both banks. So I just mix it in. I'm considering converting it to FF. Now on our 2011 Acadia, with the 3.6 VVT and direct injection, it will run 100% FF with no codes and it is not a FF vehicle.

I also like the way the exhaust smells. It has a sweeter smell.

 

[BlueTopaz]

I can't and don't disagree on what can be a lower cost, I have a local station that sells E85. I have no issues with a flex fuel vehicle and like them because the fuel has a higher octane rating than the 91 octane I can get locally. I like the fact it is a renewable resource. That is why I am getting the conversion for my Cruze.

What I don't get is how can an E10 or E15 blend can be better for the environment when I have to burn 20% more fuel with E10 or E15. If I replace 10% of the bad, with 10% of the good, but have to burn 20% of the bad, as in my real life example above it seems I have used more of the bad. I just don't get the logic. I have read reports from the University of Minnesota stating the same issue. You need to up the the content to an E30 or E35 which gets the same gas mileage if not better then an E10, in a properly tuned car. Then you are replacing 30% of the bad with 30% of the good and the gas mileage is still ~ a 20% decrease so you have come out ahead in that case.

I see your point. I have yet figured out what specific blend nets me the best economy. I have noticed that my economy doesn't take a hit at a lower blend. I just have not found that point and been able to keep track. I plan to but right now with work it is hard since I don't drive much but a mile to work and back for the next five months.