What is Unleaded 88?
Most US gasoline is E10, with up to 10% ethanol, and is sold as 87 octane regular. Unleaded 88 is E15, with up to 15% ethanol. The extra ethanol raises the octane rating to 88 and usually lowers the price.
Can my car use it?
The EPA has approved E15 for cars, light-duty trucks and SUVs from model year 2001 and newer, plus all flex-fuel vehicles. Check your owner's manual or fuel door, because some manufacturers recommend against it for certain models.
Don't use Unleaded 88 in
- Vehicles older than model year 2001
- Motorcycles, unless the manufacturer approves it
- Boats and marine engines
- Lawn mowers, chainsaws, generators and other small engines
- Heavy-duty trucks and buses
Does it save money?
Ethanol holds a little less energy than gasoline, so E15 can reduce mileage by roughly 1 to 2% compared with E10. If Unleaded 88 is 5 to 10 cents cheaper per gallon, you'll usually still come out ahead. Plug your numbers into the gas savings calculator to compare.
Is 88 octane better than 87?
Only if your engine benefits from higher octane. Most cars designed for 87 won't run better on 88, but they won't be harmed either. If your car requires premium, use premium.
Frequently asked questions
Is Unleaded 88 bad for my engine?
Not for vehicles approved for E15, which includes most 2001 and newer cars and light trucks.
Can I mix Unleaded 88 with regular?
Yes. Mixing them in the tank is fine for approved vehicles.