Ethanol mixes and my maverick's mood swings

[Damian_rk]

Anyone else feel like their Maverick has mood swings depending on what fuel you feed it? I've been bouncing between E10 and straight 91 (when I can find it), and I swear the truck runs smoother and maybe even a little sassier on the good stuff. although mpg seems to dip a bit with higher ethanol blends too, not too much tho, but enough to make me side eye the pump. would just like to know what everyone else is running and if you've noticed any real difference. Or is it just me and my maverick being dramatic?

 

[DallasMavs]

It's not just your car higher ethanol blends, like E10, tend to have less energy. That's why it's common to experience a slight drop in miles per gallon (MPG) and a rougher ride. Switching to premium 91 fuel can help make things a bit smoother, as it burns cleaner and has better knock resistance. However, any improvements are generally minor unless you're towing or driving in high temperatures

 

[Cap Underpants]

Ethanol can affect performance, so it's not just you...I'd stick with the straight 91 if you can, it seems to give smoother power

 

[happytrooper22]

Anyone else feel like their Maverick has mood swings depending on what fuel you feed it? I've been bouncing between E10 and straight 91 (when I can find it), and I swear the truck runs smoother and maybe even a little sassier on the good stuff. although mpg seems to dip a bit with higher ethanol blends too, not too much tho, but enough to make me side eye the pump. would just like to know what everyone else is running and if you've noticed any real difference. Or is it just me and my maverick being dramatic?

Yeah, the slight dip is pretty common because ethanol has a lower energy density than pure gasoline.
If you're after your ECU learning and optimizing its performance for a specific blend, I suggest sticking to one, especially if your manual specifically recommends one type of fuel.