I did the E85 comparison on both my 05 and my 08, running 3 full tanks through and checking the results (both w/ 5.3L motors). When I had my 05, I averaged 14.9MPG on 87 octane pump gas, I averaged 13.0 on E85, about 14.5% worse fuel mileage
On my 08, I average 15.2MPG on pump gas and average 13.4 on E85 . about 13.4% worse fuel mileage.
The E85 here, fluctuates from 10-17% less in cost than 87 octane. Today 87 was $3.88/gal and E85 was 3.42/gal, only 12% less, so I got 87.
I switch back and forth, I just pull the calculator out on my phone and do the quick math each time I pull in to fill up, if the E85 is 13.5% or more cheaper, I get that, if not, then I get gas.
tweak302 said:
Thats exatly why im thinking about it. The e85 is 25% cheaper, and with the economy being 25% worse, its a wash, so im thinking about giving it a dable.
If you can get E85 25% cheaper than gas, I would def. give it a shot, just check your mileage and make an educated decision on weather or not the econimics of it work out in your favor.
I turned over 94,000 miles today and have had no problems related to switching back and forth and I bought it w/ 34,000 mi and have been using E85 w/ varied frequency since I bought it. I never encountered any problems using it in my Sillverado or my 05 Av either
krazycarguy said:
I did the math about a year ago, E85 has to be at least a dollar cheaper to make it worth while. In terms of switching now, no big deal. Just remember, there is no fuel composition sensor, the ecm calculates it. So when you fill up, Drive it for at least 15 min. Other wise youll end up with fuel trim codes.
I'm not sure 15 min. is necessary, you may have had a fluke instance. The only time I have ever had the code pop up was when I only went across the street for a burrito.(<1/4 mi) I often full up at the Sheetz about 1 mile from my house and go directly home and I have no problems.