HOUSTON – If it feels like you’re stopping at the gas station more often lately, you’re not alone.
Across Houston and beyond, some drivers have reported that their vehicles seem to be burning through fuel faster than usual, leaving them wondering why they’re spending more time, and money, at the pump.
One factor getting attention this summer is the expanded availability of E15 gasoline, a fuel blend that contains 15% ethanol and 85% gasoline.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has once again approved nationwide summer sales of E15 in an effort to increase fuel supplies and help lower costs for consumers. E15 is often sold at a lower price than regular gasoline and is marketed under names such as Unleaded 88.
While the lower sticker price may be appealing, some experts note that ethanol contains less energy per gallon than traditional gasoline. That means some drivers could experience a slight decrease in fuel economy, depending on their vehicle and driving habits.
However, fuel experts say E15 isn’t necessarily the main culprit if you’re suddenly filling up more often.
Houston’s heat could be playing a bigger role
As temperatures climb into the 90s and beyond across Southeast Texas, air conditioning systems work overtime. Running the A/C places additional demand on the engine, which can reduce fuel efficiency.
Houston’s notorious stop-and-go traffic can also contribute to lower gas mileage. Frequent acceleration, hard braking, and extended idling in congestion force engines to burn more fuel than steady highway driving.
Other reasons your vehicle may be burning more gas
Drivers may also notice a drop in fuel economy because of:
Underinflated tires
Dirty air filters
Overdue oil changes
Worn spark plugs
Carrying excess weight in the vehicle
Aggressive driving habits
Roof racks or cargo carriers that increase wind resistance
Even seasonal fuel blends and changes in weather conditions can have a measurable impact on how far a vehicle travels on a tank of gas.
Is E15 safe for your vehicle?
According to the EPA, E15 is approved for use in most passenger vehicles from model year 2001 and newer, including cars, SUVs, and light-duty trucks. It is not approved for motorcycles, boats, lawn equipment, or vehicles built before 2001.
If you’re noticing that your tank isn’t lasting as long, the answer may not be a single issue. Houston’s summer heat, heavy traffic, vehicle maintenance, driving habits, and even the type of fuel you’re using can all affect fuel economy.
While E15 may help some drivers save a few cents per gallon at the pump, those savings could be offset by slightly lower fuel mileage for some vehicles. Experts recommend keeping up with routine maintenance, checking tire pressure regularly, and comparing fuel economy over several tanks before drawing conclusions about any one fuel blend.
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