Fuel

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Originally Posted by nomadx38

Actually they had this exact kind of test done in the cars guide comparing between the performance/fuel economy and price of different types of fuel.

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Yes - I remember that test - $107 less to run 95 is compelling
It seems like a big price difference at the servo but mileage makes it work out ok
(Other tests have shown E10 to be marginally more cost effective )
Trouble is prices have changed, I have not bought 98 for $1.50 for ages
I just don't worry about price/value any more - 95/98 all the time

The price is sort of irrelevant because when the price of crude goes up ALL the fuel prices, so its not like 98 is the only one going up. I always put 98 in my car for performance and mileage. I used to get BP (and still recon it's the best!) But I usually get Shell because of the 8c off. I might as well use it, every time I shop I get a docket.

Also I don't know where your getting your petrol but even without and discount I average $1.50-1.60 p/l

The price spread between E10 and 98 has increased since that test which impacts the economy/value equation
The 10% ethanol may be providing E10 some insulatiion from crude price increases

I'm often paying $1.54~$1.56 for 98 - travel south and you can pay $1.64

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Originally Posted by Martin

Ethanol emissions can damage the core of catalytic converters

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Source?

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Originally Posted by nomadx38

not to mention screws up your engine

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As will putting diesel in car designed to run on petrol.

So like all fuels, it can damage the engine if used improperly,

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Originally Posted by gavs

Checked with VGA and seeing it is they who provide the product warranty, not VAG then I would take their advice.

In fact if memory serves me correctly the owners manual might make mention of it also but I'm not 100% on that.

I'm all for the use of ethanol blend fuels but everyone always goes on about the use of non approved oils, it's much easier and far more common for dealerships to be ordered to take fuel samples. Do you suggest people tempt fate by using ethanol blended fuel during the warranty period?

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I personally avoid ethanol blends, but I don't do it for reasons of FUD.

If you interpret the facts as we have it, it would appear that VW models are suitable or compatible with E10, but VGA does not recommend using it.

If the vehicle is suitable or compatible with E10, why should the use of E10 petrol prove sufficient cause for VGA to deny a warranty claim because they don't recommend it? If they feel that strongly about it, why not explicitly state and prohibit the use of E10 blends? Is this stated in the owner's manual?

VGA should clarify their position - they should either allow or prohibit its use. If there are any exceptions that apply to certain models with certain engines either way, this should also be stated on their website. Lack of information hurts.

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Originally Posted by Martin

Ethanol emissions can damage the core of catalytic converters

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Originally Posted by Diesel_vert

Source?

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It's often quoted in motoring articles, e.g:
E10 fuel a false economy

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Originally Posted by Martin

It's often quoted in motoring articles, e.g:
E10 fuel a false economy

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Okay, I wouldn't exactly call that an authoritative source.

Lol, it looks as if he just put in that last line for fun.

Main reasons I don't use it: a ECU is tuned to run on petrol not ethanol which means it cannot take advantage of the higher flash point (higher RON / octane number) which means massive losses in performance and fuel economy - a double whammy

VAG allow it but don't recommend it. I'm to assume it MUST be able to run it as part of the euro 5> standards. They probably know themselves that it is not the best thing for a petrol designed car.

A petrol car is designed to ignite fuel vapor by means of a spark. Most "thin" fuels can do this, ethanol been one of them. In no way does this mean its meant for it or is good or it.

Diesel will not run in a petrol car at all because it is designed to be used in compression engines. The same argument could be used on Diesel engines, you cannot use petrol at all, just wont work BUT you can use kerosene which is a heavier fuel like diesel. Again doesn't mean it's meant for it or good for it, but it can use it.

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Originally Posted by nomadx38

VAG allow it but don't recommend it.

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The manufacturer, VAG (Volkswagen AG), allow it.

It is the Australian subsidiary, VGA (Volkswagen Group Australia), who have indicated on the FCAI website that it's suitable, but on their own website, say it's not recommended.

I have used Liberty 100 in my "old tech" 1.8T Polo GTI (with APR reflash). It loved the fuel. Especially in the Alpine regions (high altitude). I put that down the the oxygenate effect of the ethanol. I didn't notice any undue impact on fuel economy whilst cruising.

I'm sure no one really cares about diesel, but on my sister's TDI there's a big shiny sticker on the inside of the fuel filler cap that says "NO BIO DIESEL".
Every time there's some sort of engine fault with the car, VW Berwick try to blame it on bio diesel usage. Hahaha try to find bio diesel near us. Can you even buy it in Victoria?