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FUEL-ISH
Q I’m a bit concerned about the introduction of the new E10 fuels, and the possible damage it might cause to my Mini. The cylinder head was converted to use unleaded fuel some years ago, but from everything I hear or read, the impact of the new higher ethanol content petrol can be devastating to classic cars.
I understand that using Super Unleaded is a safer option, but we live in quite a rural location and getting hold of Super can be a little difficult. I want to know that if I have use E10 fuel, even if it’s just in an emergency, I won’t destroy my car. What would you advise?
Jason
A The introduction of ethanol into fuels has been a long time coming, and E5 (with up to 5 per cent bioethanol) has been on the forecourts for quite a while now. The increasing levels of ethanol is more likely to cause problems.
“Seat adjuster brackets have been available since the earliest days of the Mini”
Ethanol can have a corrosive effect on metal, plastic and rubber parts in the fuel system. We’ve had experience of how destructive E5 can be to incompatible fuel lines – they
