The gas pump I get mine from says it's 10%, but my car reports 0-3%.

 

That's where the EPA allows the gas companies some wiggle room, currently pump gas may contain "Up to 10% Ethanol" AKA E-10. But the actual percentage may vary by region and predominant climate conditions, in "Winter Blend" states the Ethanol percentage drops while the Butane percentage rises.

Modern gasoline is a chemist's dream, and sometimes a driver's nightmare.

 

I'll agree with you , Mike, and add........

While I was working with the durability folks at the Desert Proving Ground, one of the assignments was determining the percentage of oxygenating additive in the areas (greater Phoenix) retail distribution points.

A total of 5 pickups were dispatched. Each was responsible for a particular brand of gasoline and was to purchase a 5 gallon can of "regular unleaded" at 4 different well separated and predetermined locations.

Upon analysis, GM Labs discovered "no consistency" in quantities of additive, ranging from 6% to 14%. They also found a lack of consistency in any particular brand. Determining the reasoning was beyond the scope of the test, although several "qualified" suggestions were offered.

Also, several of the samples were below and above the advertised and listed octane level of 87 (while this MIGHT violate state laws).

I do not know if any explanation or complaint was made regarding these findings.

Just thought you would be interested.

 

Just today, I was at the tank farm picking up a liter of fanjet fuel. Today was alcohol delivery day, there must have been 10 Ethanol trucks on the lot and 2 outside the gate waiting, only one can unload at a time.

Anyway, they mix the additives at the loading rack. So I could see how variation could happen. The pumps at my Costco state "contains 10% Ethanol", not "up to 10%". I am pretty sure that the formula does not change seasonally on my side of the river, we don't need smog test on this side.

 

were you ever able to find the solution to your problem? i seem to be having the same problem. so far i've changed spark plugs, fuel filter and switched injectors. i am taking a trip up to mammoth and i'm hoping my car is going to be safe to drive.

thanks in advance for the help

 

don't expect any quick response the original poster hasn't been back since January.