Can You Run E85 in a Stock 2018 Mustang GT?

E85 is a type of ethanol-based fuel that contains 15-83% ethanol and 22-87% gasoline. It is designed for flex-fuel vehicles that can run on either E10 (10% ethanol) or E85. In the case of the 2018 Mustang GT, Ford has not explicitly stated whether it’s a flex-fuel vehicle or not.

Introduction

The Ford Mustang GT is an iconic American muscle car that has been thrilling enthusiasts for decades. The latest generation, the sixth one to be exact, has been making waves since its introduction in 2015. With its powerful EcoBoost and V8 engine options, the Mustang GT has proven to be a force to be reckoned with on the streets and tracks. In this article, we will delve into the world of E85 fuel and explore whether you can run it in a stock 2018 Mustang GT.

Answer to the Question

To answer this question, let’s first understand what E85 is. E85 is a type of ethanol-based fuel that contains 15-83% ethanol and 22-87% gasoline. It is designed for flex-fuel vehicles that can run on either E10 (10% ethanol) or E85. In the case of the 2018 Mustang GT, Ford has not explicitly stated whether it’s a flex-fuel vehicle or not.

However, we can look at some technical specifications to make an educated guess. The 2018 Mustang GT’s engine is a 5.0-liter V8 with a naturally aspirated design. It produces 460 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque on regular gasoline (91 octane). Since the engine doesn’t have any direct injection or port fuel injection systems, it might be possible to run E85 in a stock Mustang GT.

But before we dive into the details, let’s consider some important factors:

• Engine calibration: The engine management system would need to be recalibrated to account for the changed fuel composition. This could potentially affect performance and fuel efficiency.
• Fuel injectors: Standard fuel injectors might not be designed to handle the increased ethanol content in E85. Upgrading or modifying the fuel injectors could be necessary.
• Intake manifold: The intake manifold would need to be modified to accommodate the changed air-fuel mixture, which could affect engine performance and tuning.

Considering these factors, it’s unlikely that a stock 2018 Mustang GT can run E85 without some form of modification or calibration. However, we’ll explore the pros and cons of running E85 in your Mustang GT below.

Pros

• Increased power: E85 is known for its higher octane rating (91-93), which could potentially increase power output and engine performance.
• Improved fuel efficiency: Ethanol has a higher energy density than gasoline, which means it can provide more power per unit of fuel consumed. This could result in improved fuel economy, especially at higher speeds or under heavy load conditions.
• Environmentally friendly: E85 is considered an alternative to traditional fossil fuels and has a lower carbon footprint.

Cons

• Potential engine damage: Running the wrong type of fuel can cause engine damage due to improper combustion. This could lead to costly repairs or even engine failure.
• Calibration challenges: As mentioned earlier, recalibrating the engine management system for E85 would require significant effort and resources.
• Fuel availability: E85 is not widely available in many areas, which means you might need to search extensively for a station that carries it. This could be inconvenient or even impossible depending on your location.

Conclusion

While it’s technically possible to run E85 in a stock 2018 Mustang GT, it’s not recommended without proper calibration and modification. Running the wrong type of fuel can cause engine damage, decreased performance, or even affect fuel efficiency. If you’re considering running E85 in your Mustang GT, it’s essential to consult with a qualified mechanic or performance tuner who has experience with this type of conversion.

Keep in mind that some enthusiasts might choose to modify their engines or install aftermarket calibration systems to accommodate E85. However, for most owners, sticking to regular gasoline (91 octane) is the safer and more practical choice.

In the end, it’s crucial to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision about running E85 in your 2018 Mustang GT. Remember to always prioritize engine safety and performance when experimenting with alternative fuels.