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E10 Fuel and Classic Cars: What Owners Should Know

Posted: Tuesday, 28 October 2025 @ 12:05
Photo of a row of petrol pump handles at a modern petrol station

Running effects of using E10 fuel in older vehicles.

Due to the Ethanol content of modern fuels, be it at a ratio of 5% or 10% or more is heat causing evaporation in hot engine bays.

When the fuel enters the engine bay it enters a very hot environment that then influences the fuel which predominantly creates partial evaporation of the fuel within fuel lines and float chambers that can then cause erratic idle and erratic throttle.

This is attributed to the Ethanol ratio in the fuel evaporating due to the heat this is due to  the Ethanol having a lower evaporation point 78.37°C (173.07°F) than the petroleum which has an evaporation point of 200°C (392°F) so therefore reducing the Octane rating of the fuel and therefore its ability to combust correctly.

So, it can be an advantage to make sure that all fuel lines are in good condition and routed away where possible from high heat sources and making sure that all heatshields are in place.

There is the possibility to use heat wrap tubing around fuel lines to help reduce the effect of heat on the fuel and even use a wrap around exhaust headers to reduce under bonnet heat.

Excess heat can also be caused by a poor performing cooling system that may include a partially blocked radiator core or even the incorrect specification coolant/antifreeze being used with an incorrect coolant to water ratio.

Excess heat can also be caused by a poorly performing ignition system and/or ignition timing.

Correct engine oil grade is being used.

So, to summarise, it is advisable to do the below check list to reduce under bonnet heat effecting the fuel system:

  • Check fuel hoses are in good condition and 10% Ethanol compatible and not too close to heat sources.
  • Check all heatshields are in place.
  • Check the coolant system to make sure coolant is the correct specification and diluted to the correct ratio of 50/50 (coolant/water).
  • Check that the coolant can flow freely through the system.
  • Check ignition system, plug gap, points gap, plug leads and caps, spark plugs.
  • Check ignition timing is correct.
  • Check correct grade of engine oil is being used.
Austin Healey 3000 parked next to a Shell brand petrol pump

Increased Ethanol Content In Petrol: The Effects It Has On Classic Cars Whilst Left In Storage

The ethanol content of petrol in the UK is currently at 10% volume. In Europe, the 10% volume is virtually all that is available, and in the USA it is widely 15% volume with plans to increase the volume further.

Ethanol is a sustainable additive that is added to petrol to reduce pollutants released when the fuel is burnt during the combustion process.

There has been much talk during the past few years about the ‘side effects’ of ethanol in petrol and the ‘rumoured’ problems it can cause in fuel systems in older and classic vehicles, predominantly any petrol engine vehicle manufactured prior to 2000.

The Problem with additional Ethanol

As far as we are aware, the addition of ethanol in the fuel only really becomes an issue when vehicles are left inactive for lengthy periods - classic vehicles that are ‘put away’ for the winter being prime candidates.

The ethanol in the petrol absorbs water which has two consequences:

  1. The water attracts bacteria that then creates corrosion in metallic components and can lead to the breakdown of rubber and plastic components that are in constant contact with the fuel during these periods of inactivity, especially if rubber hoses or plastic floats have not been changed for several years.
  2. It can start a chain reaction that will create acidic molecules in the fuel when left to sit for lengthy periods.

Corrosion & Oxidation

All metals are affected - brass, copper, steel, aluminium, and stainless steel. The corrosion problem is increased when two dissimilar metals are in contact with each other whilst exposed to, or submerged in, ethanol content petrol. For example, the float bowls of SU carburettors where there is a steel stud threaded into the inside of the float bowl which is made from aluminium.

Two types of corrosion have been identified in the fuel systems of vehicles ‘laid up’ for extended periods with fuel still contained within their systems.

Galvanic Corrosion occurs where the ethanol fuel is in contact with two dissimilar metals, and it is this type that would be more prevalent in older vehicles ‘laid up’ for long periods.

Oxidation occurs when oxygen combines with molecules on the metal surface to create a metal oxide. This can then react with the previously mentioned acids created when water and ethanol mix.

Is there a solution to this problem?

Millers Fuel Multi-Shot VSPE Power Plus-500ml

There is no “cure-all” solution to the issues caused by high ethanol content in fuel when it is left to sit for lengthy periods. However, there are steps that can be taken to reduce or, in some cases, eliminate the problems for vehicles left in storage.

  1. Fuel additive - Ethanol Protection System that protects against the corrosive effects of ethanol found in E10 unleaded petrol.
  2. Fill the tank with E5 (Super Unleaded) if available – Super Unleaded (E5) petrol contains up to 5% ethanol and a higher octane rating (97–99 RON), which makes it less hygroscopic and more stable during storage. Filling the tank helps minimise air space where condensation can form, reducing the risk of water contamination and internal corrosion in the fuel tank and lines.
  3. Run the engine briefly to pull treated fuel through the carbs and pump – After adding your chosen ethanol protection additive and topping up with E5 fuel, allow the engine to run for several minutes. This circulates the treated fuel through the pump, fuel lines, and carburettor float chambers, ensuring that all components are protected before the car is laid up. It’s a small step that prevents untreated fuel from lingering in vulnerable areas where evaporation and corrosion are most likely to occur.
  4. Bonus Tip: If your fuel system still relies on old rubber hoses, replace them with ethanol-resistant types — the original black ones tend to soften and weep after sitting through a winter on modern fuel.

Further Information

The FBHVC (Federation of British Historic Vehicle Clubs) and the HCVA (Historic & Classic Vehicles Alliance) acts as “the voice of the classic car industry” and plays a very prominent role in advising and lobbying the UK Government. We strongly advise as many customers and businesses as possible to join.

More information is available here:

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use E10 fuel in my classic Austin Healey?

You can, but proceed with care. Ethanol can accelerate corrosion and degrade older rubber components. Use E5 fuel if available and always add an ethanol protection additive.

Does ethanol affect carburettors and fuel pumps?

Yes. Ethanol attracts moisture, which can lead to galvanic corrosion in aluminium float bowls and steel fittings. Running treated fuel through the system before storage helps prevent damage.

How can I prepare my car for winter storage on modern fuels?

Use an ethanol protection additive, fill the tank with E5 petrol, run the engine briefly, and inspect hoses and seals for compatibility. These steps protect the system from corrosion and evaporation issues.

Should I drain the fuel before long-term storage?

If you can’t access E5 or additives, draining the tank is safer than leaving E10 fuel to absorb water. However, if treated and topped up correctly, draining isn’t necessary for most Healeys.

Where can I learn more about fuel myths and classic car care?

See our related article 5 Austin Healey Myths Debunked, which discusses modern fuel concerns and other common misconceptions.

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