Boater’s Beware – You Can’t Use E15 Gasoline for Your Engines

May 26, 2022 – Boaters Beware – Do not fill your tank with E15 gasoline

Article Provided by the Michigan Boating Industries – Boat Michigan.org

Commerce Twp., Mich., May 26, 2022 – E15 fuel, which contains 15 percent ethanol, will be sold in the summer months this year as a way to lower fuel prices. In the past E15 was not sold between June 1 through September 15 – the typical boating season for most states. Due to this change, the Michigan Boating Industries Association warns boaters beware at the pump, as it is not only dangerous to fuel your boat with E15 gasoline, but it is also illegal to do so. Other small engines like motorcycles, off-road vehicles and power equipment are included in this danger.

Fueling with E15 can make engines to overheat, causing very expensive damage, and will void any engine manufactures warranty. This bigger problem is, E15 can be hard to identify at the pump.

“The MBIA is lobbying for the Consumer Protection and Fuel Transparency Act, that calls for better signage to identify E15 at the pump,” said Nicki Polan, executive director of MBIA. “Consumers should have a clear understanding of what fuel they’re putting in their gas tank as to not damage their engine or cause a potentially dangerous situation out on the water.”

According to the National Marine Manufacturers Association, 3 in 5 consumers mistakenly assume E15 is safe for all their products, and 85 percent of consumers are unaware that it is illegal to do so. While it is suggested the best fuel for boats is “rec fuel” containing no ethanol, some recreational vessel engines may use gasoline containing up to 10% ethanol. Always check your owner’s manual before fueling.

For more information on boating, including a product and service directory, consumer events calendar, safety laws and tips, the latest news, and more – visit MBIA’s consumer site boatmichigan.org

MBIA is a non-profit trade association representing more than 350 marine businesses and serves as the voice for Michigan’s $7.8 billion marine industry. MBIA is dedicated to the advancement, promotion and protections of recreational boating in Michigan. MBIA produces Michigan’s big three boat shows: the Progressive Detroit Boat Show, Progressive Novi Boat Show and Progressive Metro Boat Show. Proceeds from these events go back to the industry through MBIA programs and services. For more information about MBIA and its boat shows visit www.mbia.org.