With just a couple of weeks to go until the UK switches over to a new formula of fuel - known as E10, we thought we would address some of the concerns facing Classic Mini owners.

From September, the current E5 fuel in the UK will be replaced by E10 fuel. The difference between the two is the bio-ethanol mix in E10 fuel is higher, 10% in the case of E10, it's being brought in to reduce CO2 emissions generated by vehicles on the road.

Although your modern car will run safely on E10 petrol, its not as easy for Classic Minis... Cars built pre-2000 can run in to issues when using E10 for long periods of time.

The Department of Transport has advised that approximately 700000 in the UK are "not warranted by their manufacturers to use E10" with the figure including a lot of Classic Cars. They identified the following problems in their tests, with rubber being particularly affected: degradation to fuel hoses & seals, damaged fuel pumps, blocked fuel filters, corroded carburettors, damaged fuel pumps, blocked injectors & corrosion in fuel tanks.

One of the major problems effecting older cars is that ethanol can be corrosive on metal, rubber & plastic parts in the fuel system. This can cause a range of problems from degrading fuel lines, blocked fuel filters & pumps, as well as corroded carburettors. However the main issue facing our beloved Classic Minis is that ethanol is what is known as a hygroscopic. This means that it can absorb water from the air. Which in turn means that the longer that the vehicle is left, the bigger the problem will be as any moisture in the petrol will only add to the issues. The evaporated water will find its way in to your Mini - condensation can form in the fuel tank & carburettor if your Mini is left unused for prolonged periods.

There is also a chance that the different fuel composition & higher ethanol percentage could loosen deposits & clog the filters in the fuel system.

With corrosion being the leading concern around the new fuel, leaks in the fuel system are a very real possibility - which in turn can lead to fire! Parts will need to be replaced much more frequently, particularly hoses & seals to prevent the lasting damage.

Having said this, it needs to be noting that E5 fuel will still be available at petrol stations in the form of 'Super Unleaded' for at least another 5 years... Although good news for your Mini, it's perhaps not the best news for your pocket - Super Unleaded can cost anywhere between 10p - 15p more a litre, which works out at anywhere between £6 - £10 extra each time you fill up!

If you accidentally fill up with E10, instead of E5, there's no need to panic. You don't need to drain your Mini like you would if you used diesel instead of petrol, simply run your Mini as you normally would. One tank full won't cause lasting damage, unless you leave it stationary with the fuel in for a prolonged period.

Ultimately there are two options for Classic Mini owners when it comes to the E10 fuel - you could either upgrade your fuel system in your Mini, or, you can continue to use the E5 fuel in the form of Super Unleaded. Unfortunately both of these will be costly, you will need to work out how often you use your Mini and what you're comfortable spending!

If you choose to upgrade the fuel system in your Mini, please don't hesitate to get in touch with our friendly & knowledgable Sales Team who will be able to advise you on the best possible parts for the job. Our team are available 9am - 5pm, Monday - Friday, on sales@minisport.com or 01282 778731.

(Header image - MINI USA)