E10 Petrol Explained: Can Your Car Use It?

E10 is standard unleaded petrol containing up to 10% renewable ethanol. It became the standard grade in Great Britain in September 2021, and almost all petrol cars built since 2011 can use it. If your car is older or you are unsure, check it on the government's E10 checker and use E5 super unleaded if it is not approved.

What is E10 petrol?

The "E" number shows the maximum share of ethanol blended into the petrol. E10 contains up to 10% ethanol, while E5 contains up to 5%. Ethanol is made from plant material, so blending it in reduces the carbon dioxide from each litre burned.

At most filling stations, E10 is the standard 95-octane unleaded, and E5 is usually sold as the higher-octane super unleaded.

Can my car use E10?

Most petrol cars built from 2011 onwards are approved for E10, and many older ones are too. Some older cars, classic cars and certain models are not.

The quickest way to check is the government's E10 vehicle checker, which lets you look up your car by make and model. Your handbook or the manufacturer can also confirm it.

What happens if I put E10 in a car that is not approved?

A single tank by mistake is unlikely to cause harm. Fill up with E5 next time. Using E10 regularly in a car that is not approved can, over time, damage some seals, plastics and metal parts in older fuel systems. If you are worried, ask a garage to take a look.

Does E10 affect fuel economy?

Ethanol contains a little less energy than petrol, so some drivers may see a small drop in miles per gallon. For most cars the difference is slight and hard to notice in everyday driving. Our guide to spending less on fuel has practical ways to save.

What about cars that are not used much?

Ethanol absorbs moisture, so fuel can deteriorate if a car sits unused for long periods. If you store a car, such as a classic or a summer car, try not to leave old fuel in the tank for months, and follow the manufacturer's or owners' club advice on storage.

Common questions

Can I mix E10 and E5?

Yes. If your car is approved for E10 it can run on any mix of the two. If it is not approved, stick to E5.

Does E10 affect diesel cars?

No. E10 is a petrol grade. Diesel has its own blend, labelled B7 at the pump.

Is super unleaded better for my car?

If your car is approved for E10 and the manufacturer recommends 95-octane fuel, there is no need to pay extra for super unleaded. Some high-performance engines are designed for higher octane fuel, so follow your handbook.

Need advice on your car?

If you are not sure whether your car is suitable for E10, or you think there is a fuel-related fault, contact the anycolourcar.com service centre in Barnsley, South Yorkshire, on 01226 574321 or visit our servicing and repairs page. If you are looking for a newer, more efficient car, browse our cars in stock.

Updated October 2026.