As per provincial regulations, premium fuel will not be Ethanol free anymore. You might be wondering how this will affect you, so please see below for some answers to help solve any confusion.

About the Announcement

Who does it affect? It will affect anyone who purchases premium fuel as regular and midgrade fuel already contains up to 10% ethanol.

What changed? Due to provincial regulations, all fuel, including premium, will have up to 10% ethanol in it.

Where does this affect? All gas bars, including Bulk Fuel Delivery in BC (including Co-op).

When will it change? Affecting all deliveries mid-July.

Why? Ethanol contains slightly less energy, but burns more efficiently, so it releases fewer emissions into the environment.

About Ethanol

Is ethanol safe for my vehicle? Yes, most modern gasoline engines can use gasoline that contains up to 10% ethanol. If you are unsure it's compatible with your vehicle, check your owner’s manual or speak to the manufacturer.

Do I need to modify my engine for use with ethanol blended gasoline? Unlikely, since most modern gasoline engines can utilize gasoline that contains up to 10% ethanol. Modern vehicles have computer-controlled air/fuel systems, which adjust for ethanol automatically. For older vehicles that use carburetors, a slight adjustment to air/fuel ratios may be necessary.

Will I notice a difference in gas mileage? Most drivers will not notice any difference. Ethanol blended gasoline contains slightly less energy than conventional gasoline, however, it burns more efficiently, which helps compensate for the difference.

Do I still need gas line antifreeze if I use ethanol blended fuel? No. Ethanol, like all alcohols, absorbs water. This eliminates any condensation inside the engine that could freeze and cause problems.

Does ethanol plug fuel filters? Ethanol does not plug filters. However, it does act as a solvent, loosening residues such as rust, varnish, and dirt that can accumulate in equipment. These are the materials that can clog your fuel filter, especially during your first fill with an ethanol-blend. If you notice a change in your engine performance after filling up with ethanol blended gasoline, check your fuel filter, as it may need to be replaced.

Can I use ethanol blended gasoline in my lawnmower, snowmobile and outboard motors? Most new small engines are compatible with ethanol blended gasoline. Manufacturers have made their new engines ethanol-friendly due to the increasing availability of ethanol in North America. Consumers are encouraged to consult the equipment’s owner’s manual and/or contact the equipment manufacturer to determine if ethanol blended gasoline can be used.