Shock stat: Over a quarter of UK drivers haven’t checked if their cars can take new E10 petrol! As E10 hits forecourts this month, RAC research reveals 27% of drivers are in the dark about whether their vehicle is compatible. Even more, 24%, don’t know E10 is replacing E5 as the new standard unleaded petrol.
Check Your Car Now – Don’t Get Caught Out
The RAC urges drivers to verify their vehicle’s compatibility immediately using the official free online checker. Only 26% have done so, while 15% know their car is compatible through other means.
If your motor isn’t compatible – approximately 600,000 cars are affected – you’ll have to splash out on pricier E5 super unleaded to keep your engine running smoothly.
Rising Costs and Running Risks for Incompatible Cars
- Nearly 60% of drivers with non-compatible cars are worried about the extra cost: E5 super unleaded can be around 12p more expensive per litre.
- 53% fear they won’t be able to find E5 fuel easily at petrol stations.
- 20% worry about accidentally filling up with E10, which could damage their vehicle and lead to costly repairs.
- Another 20% worry that the fuel switch could hurt their car’s resale value.
Why the Switch to E10?
E10 petrol contains up to 10% bioethanol, doubling the 5% in E5. This green fuel move aims to slash CO2 emissions by a staggering 750,000 tonnes a year – the same as taking 350,000 cars off UK roads. It’s a key part of the Government’s 2050 net zero target.
But bioethanol’s corrosive nature poses a risk. Filling a non-compatible car with E10 could damage seals, plastics, and metals over time. Since 2011, all new cars sold must be E10 compatible, but older models might be at risk.
RAC Warns Drivers: Act Now
“E10 petrol has already started appearing on forecourts and will replace E5 swiftly. Most petrol cars aren’t affected, but a sizeable minority will be,” said RAC Head of Policy Nicholas Lyes.
“If your car can’t handle E10, you’ll need to pay a premium for E5 super unleaded, which adds up fast for regular drivers. Plus, you must ensure your local forecourt stocks E5 or risk being stranded.”
“Classic car owners beware: avoid accidentally topping up with E10 and leaving it in the tank, as it can cause expensive damage.”
The Government confirms cars built from 2011 onwards can run on E10. While E10 fuel is already arriving across Great Britain, it will roll out in Northern Ireland early next year. The RAC doesn’t expect petrol prices to rise due to this change, as bioethanol costs are already baked into current wholesale prices.
