December 10th, 2025

E85 is one of the most affordable and misunderstood fuels on the market. While flex fuel drivers know it can save them money, there are still a few myths that stick around. Let’s clear them up with facts based on how the fuel actually works in California.

Myth 1: E85 costs more in the long run.

Reality: Even with slightly lower fuel economy, E85 almost always saves drivers money at the pump in California.

E85 has a lower energy content than regular gasoline, which can lead to 10–20% lower miles per gallon for many flex fuel vehicles. But in California, the price per mile difference is typically large enough that drivers still save every time they fill up.

Example:
If gasoline is $5.50/gal and E85 is $3.25/gal, even with slightly fewer miles per tank, the savings are significant.

Bottom line: Lower price > slightly lower MPG.

Myth 2: E85 hurts engine performance.

Reality: E85’s high octane level, 100+ RON in the Pearson Fuels station network, actually supports better performance.

E85 allows engines (especially tuned or turbocharged ones) to run:

• Cooler
• With better knock resistance
• With more optimized timing
• With greater power potential

It’s one of the reasons E85 is widely used by performance drivers, motorsports and high-horsepower builds.

Even in a standard flex fuel vehicle (not performance tuned), E85 runs cleanly and safely. 

Myth 3: E85 isn’t safe for my car.

Reality: If you drive a flex fuel vehicle (FFV), your engine is built for E85 from the factory.

FFVs automatically adjust fueling and timing  so drivers can switch between gasoline and E85 any time, in any amount.

Myth 4: I won’t be able to find E85 when I need it.

Reality: California has the largest E85 station network in the country, thanks to Pearson Fuels, and it continues to grow quickly.

With the Pearson Fuels App, drivers can:

• See real-time E85 prices
• Find the closest station instantly
• Track new openings
  

Over 450 stations in California now offer Pearson Fuels E85 and more are opening every month.

The Bottom Line

E85 isn’t just cheaper; it’s high octane, high performance, and designed for today’s flex fuel vehicles.

Drivers who switch often wonder why they didn’t do it sooner.

If you own a flex fuel vehicle, E85 can help you:

• Spend less at the pump
• Support cleaner, renewable fuel sources
• Get better performance potential
• Reduce reliance on traditional gasoline

With California’s volatile gasoline prices, E85 provides a level of stability and savings most drivers don’t realize they could be getting.