What is E10?
During summer 2021, the standard (95 octane) petrol grade in Great Britain will become E10. E10 petrol contains up to 10% renewable ethanol, which will help to reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions associated with petrol vehicles and tackle climate change. Petrol in the UK currently contains up to 5% renewable ethanol (known as E5).
E10 petrol is already widely used around the world, including across Europe, the US and Australia. It has also been the reference fuel against which new cars are tested for emissions and performance since 2016.
You can find more information on E10 fuels here https://www.gov.uk/guidance/e10-petrol-explained
Is E10 safe for your figaro?
Whilst the change in ethanol levels is minor, it is potentially very damaging to older petrol engine cars over extended periods of use. Studies have shown that prolonged use of E10 fuel can cause fuel lines to corrode and deteriorate. Unfortunately, with the age of the Figaro it is likely that this deterioration will happen with the fuel lines on the car over time.
What fuel should I be using in my Figaro?
When it was released in Japan, being a turbocharged model Nissan recommended it was used with Japanese Premium fuel which came at a minimum of 96 RON, however most were used with Japanese Ultimate fuel which was 100 RON. We recommend using the best fuel you can get, in the UK this is 99 RON, which can be found at Shell (VPower 99+), Tesco’s (Momentum 99) and Esso (Synergy 99+). For the foreseeable future, Premium Fuel’s will remain at E5 in the UK, so this would alleviate the need for any preventative work at this time.
What can I do if I must use E10?
If you wish to use E10 we do have a solution by using this 6 in 1 additive. The new 6 in 1 petrol solution, which has been in testing since 2018, has the ability to help reduce the corrosion caused by the higher ethanol content as well as lower emissions, enhance power and has been designed to keep every component carbon free e.g., the fuel injectors, inlet/exhaust valves and turbocharger. Just one bottle can be used for over 400 litres of fuel, with each 25ml ’shot’ from the easy-to-use bottle increasing power and acceleration, cleaning the engine system, lowering emissions and combating the corrosion effect from ethanol (E10) fuels. You can find out more about this product here: https://www.thenissanfigaroshop.co.uk/parts-department/product/nissan-figaro-6-in-1-e10-fuel-system-protection-solution
We are looking into more alternative and more permanent solutions. Keep an eye on our social media pages to learn more soon.
Below you can see an example of a perished fuel line from exposure to E10 fuels. Also the labelling at Tesco Petrol Stations for 95 and 99 octane fuel. As well as the 6 in 1 additive for if you have to use E10 to combat any potential issues
