Drivers issued with E10 warning as fuel could freeze this winter

Drivers are being warned to expect far colder temperatures in the coming weeks and months, which could lead to plenty of breakdowns on the roads. In colder temperatures, condensation occurs when water vapour comes in contact with a hot surface, potentially spelling trouble for petrol cars.This can sometimes occur in the fuel tank, as any space not filled up with fuel will be taken up by air containing water vapour.Dr Dan Clarke, Global Head of Science and Technology at SulNOx Group Plc, warned of potential fuel issues if motorists are using E10 fuel this winter.He previously said: ‘The main problem is that the additional bio-ethanol content in E10 prefers to mix with water as opposed to petrol.’Where there is sufficient of both, it leaves the petrol and combines with the water to form a separate layer at the bottom of the fuel tank.READ MORE: E10 petrol could cause cracking and ‘dry out’ rubber seals Drivers issued with E10 warning as fuel could freeze this winter. (Image: Getty)’The fuel line then draws from this watery alcohol mixture which is pumped directly into the engine.’Equally, while petrol or diesel are very unlikely to freeze in the temperatures we typically experience in the UK, water condensation left in the empty fuel lines can easily freeze and prevent fuel from reaching your engine.’The introduction of E10 in the UK is likely to have more of an impact on motorists than it has had in other countries which generally have a warmer climate.’Preventing this separate watery alcohol phase from forming is the key to removing the problems associated with E10, and drivers can avoid these issues by adding SulNOxEco Petrol Conditioner each time they fill up.’DON’T MISS Classic cars remain popular despite push for greener motoring [REVEAL] Sainsbury’s implements new 50p charge in petrol stations [INSIGHT] Drivers urged to use ‘magic’ one-button trick to defrost the car [ADVICE]  Water condensation left in the empty fuel lines can easily freeze. (Image: Getty) How to save fuel. (Image: EXPRESS)They also warn that car fuel systems can become contaminated with water, and with the cold weather, it can freeze, preventing the engine from running altogether.The issue is most acute in the fuel lines, which feed the individual injectors.These are very narrow and can be blocked by tiny ice particles, starving the engine of fuel.