Ethanol Fuel Dangers in Classic Ferraris, Maseratis & Lamborghinis
- emblemsportscars20
- Jul 8
- 2 min read
Ethanol-blended fuel can destroy your classic Ferrari, Maserati, or Lamborghini—causing clogged fuel pumps, corroded lines, and engine damage. Learn how to protect your investment.
Modern fuel blends contain up to 10% ethanol (E10) or even 15% (E15), which can wreak havoc on vintage and high-performance engines. Ferrari, Maserati, and Lamborghini models from the 1980s–2000s were never designed for ethanol-laden gasoline, leading to:
1. Clogged Fuel Filters & Pumps
Ethanol attracts moisture, leading to phase separation—where water and fuel split, causing corrosion.
Debris from degraded rubber hoses gets sucked into the fuel pump, blocking filters and starving the engine.
Symptoms: Hesitation, misfires, sudden stalling—common in Ferrari F355, 360, Maserati 3200 GT, Lamborghini Diablo.
2. Rubber & Plastic Degradation
Ethanol dissolves old rubber fuel lines, seals, and diaphragms found in:
Fuel injectors (Ferrari 348, Testarossa)
Fuel pressure regulators (Lamborghini Countach, Murciélago)
Carburetor gaskets (Pre-1990s models)
Swelling, cracking, and leaks can lead to fire hazards and costly repairs.
3. Corroded Fuel Tanks & Lines
Ethanol oxidizes aluminum and steel, leading to:
Rust flakes contaminating the fuel system.
Pinhole leaks in fuel tanks (common in Ferrari 308/328).
Fiberglass fuel tanks (e.g., early Lamborghinis) are especially vulnerable.
1. Use Ethanol-Free Fuel (Where Possible)
Look for "E5" (98-99% gasoline) at stations like Shell V-Power Nitro+ or Esso Synergy Supreme+ (UK).
2. Upgrade Fuel System Components
Replace rubber hoses with ethanol-resistant lines (e.g., PTFE-lined hoses).
Install a modern fuel filter (e.g., Mahle KL145 or Bosch 0450905100).
Consider a fuel stabilizer (e.g., Sta-Bil 360 Protection) for stored cars.
3. Regular Maintenance Checks
Inspect fuel lines every 12 months for swelling/leaks.
Drain and clean the tank if the car sits for long periods.
Flush injectors annually (critical for Ferrari V8s & Lamborghini V12s).
Real-World Cases of Ethanol Damage
Ferrari F355 Fuel Pump Failure: A UK owner reported £3,000 in repairs after ethanol degraded the pump’s internal seals.
Lamborghini Diablo Fuel Line Meltdown: A 1992 Diablo’s original rubber lines disintegrated, requiring a full system replacement.
Maserati Biturbo Carb Issues: Ethanol-induced corrosion led to clogged jets and poor idle.
At EMBLEM SPORTS CARS we specialize in protecting and restoring classic Ferraris, Maseratis, and Lamborghinis from ethanol damage. Our services include:
✅ Full fuel system upgrades (ethanol-compatible components)
✅ Tank cleaning & corrosion treatment
✅ Diagnostics for ethanol-related issues
Don’t let ethanol destroy your pride and joy—contact Emblem today.
Classic Ferraris, Maseratis, and Lamborghinis are engineering masterpieces that demand careful maintenance, especially when it comes to fuel. Using ethanol-blended fuel can cause corrosion, damage seals, and lead to costly repairs. Even a small fueling mistake—putting the wrong fuel in these vehicles—can result in serious engine issues. That’s why services like Wrong Fuel SOS are invaluable. Their team at wrongfuelsos.com provides expert wrong fuel services and fast wrong fuel drain solutions, ensuring that even high-performance classics get back on the road safely. For owners of exotic cars, combining careful fueling practices with reliable emergency fuel support is essential to preserve performance, protect investment, and enjoy these automotive icons worry-free.