The Pros, Cons, and Considerations of Running Flex-Fuel in Your Performance Mustang

E85 fuel, a blend of 85% ethanol and 15% gasoline, has gained popularity among enthusiasts looking to optimize their vehicle’s performance. But can you put E85 in a Mustang GT? In this article, we’ll …

E85 fuel, a blend of 85% ethanol and 15% gasoline, has gained popularity among enthusiasts looking to optimize their vehicle’s performance. But can you put E85 in a Mustang GT? In this article, we’ll delve into the ins and outs of running flex-fuel in your Ford Mustang GT.

Introduction The Ford Mustang GT is a beast on the road, with its powerful V8 engine and aggressive styling. But what if you want to take it to the next level by running E85 fuel? Is it feasible, or are there better options for performance enthusiasts?

Answer to Question: Can You Put E85 in a Mustang GT? In short, yes, you can put E85 in a Mustang GT. However, before we dive into the details, it’s essential to understand that E85 fuel is not suitable for all vehicles. The Ford Mustang GT, with its 5.0L V8 engine, is one of the few models that can run on E85 without any modifications.

Pros: Running E85 in a Mustang GT

1. Improved Performance: E85 fuel contains higher levels of oxygen than gasoline, which allows for a more complete combustion process. This results in increased power and torque output.
2. Increased Fuel Efficiency: Although the difference might not be significant, E85 fuel tends to provide slightly better fuel economy due to its higher energy density.
3. Environmentally Friendly: Ethanol is a renewable resource, making E85 fuel a more eco-friendly option for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint.

Cons: Running E85 in a Mustang GT

1. Limited Fuel Availability: E85 fuel is not as widely available as regular gasoline or diesel. You might need to search for specialized stations or pump up the miles.
2. Potential Damage: If you’re not careful, using E85 fuel can lead to engine damage due to its higher ethanol content. Ford recommends only using E10 (10% ethanol) in their vehicles, so be cautious when switching to E85.
3. Warranty Concerns: Some manufacturers, including Ford, may void your warranty if they find out you’ve been running E85 fuel in your vehicle.

Considerations: Running E85 in a Mustang GT

1. Check Your Owner’s Manual: Before making the switch, consult your owner’s manual to ensure that E85 fuel is compatible with your vehicle.
2. Fuel Injector Cleaning: Ethanol can leave deposits on your fuel injectors, which may require cleaning or replacement if not properly maintained.
3. Engine Tuning: To get the most out of your Mustang GT on E85 fuel, you might need to perform engine tuning modifications to optimize performance and avoid potential issues.

Conclusion In conclusion, running E85 in a Ford Mustang GT is feasible but requires careful consideration. While there are benefits to using flex-fuel, such as improved performance and increased efficiency, the limited availability of E85 fuel and potential damage concerns might outweigh these advantages for some enthusiasts. As always, consult your owner’s manual and consider the pros and cons before making the switch.