KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- E20 fuel transition has sparked interest among vehicle owners
- Each OEM is responding differently regarding warranties related to E20's effects
- Below is a summary of warranty offerings from each OEM
The transition to E20 fuel norms, which involves the use of ethanol-blended petrol, is gaining traction in the country. However, customers are reporting various effects of E20 fuel on their vehicles, as well as concerns regarding warranties provided by manufacturers. Many customers feel confused about the warranty implications related to E20 fuel. In this article, we will examine the warranties offered by most original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) in the Indian market. However, before moving further, make sure to join the 91Wheels WhatsApp community to never miss out on any automotive updates.
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What is E20 Fuel?
E20 fuel is a new petrol blend comprising 20% ethanol and 80% conventional gasoline. Ethanol, typically derived from crops like sugarcane and corn, is being pushed as a cleaner, domestically sourced biofuel that can cut emissions and reduce reliance on traditional fossil fuels. The rollout of E20 has begun across India as part of the governments wider strategy to promote cleaner and more sustainable mobility.
E20 Fuel: Where Does the OEM Warranty Stand?
According to a recent report from Autocar India, major automotive manufacturers such as Maruti Suzuki, Honda, Hyundai, Toyota, Tata Motors, and Mahindra have disclosed the warranty coverage for vehicles that run on E20 fuel. Many carmakers have been producing E20-compatible cars over the past few years. Below is the warranty information provided by these major OEMs.
| Manufacturer | Compliance | Warranty |
| Maruti Suzuki | 1 April 2023 - full E20 Compliance | Will Honour Warranty |
| Tata Motors | Material Compliant April 2022 Onwards | Will Honour Warranty |
| Mahindra | Material Compliant April 2022 Onwards | Will Honour Warranty |
| Nissan | Material Compliant April 2022 Onwards | Will Honour Warranty |
| Hyundai | Material Compliant April 2022 Onwards | Will Honour Warranty |
| Skoda | April 2020 Onwards | E20 Fuel Can Be Used Without Affecting Durability |
| Volkswagen | April 2020 Onwards | E20 Fuel Can Be Used Without Affecting Durability |
| Honda | All Cars Made Since January 1, 2009, in India are E20 Material Compliant; Cars Made Since February 2025 are fully compliant | No Change in Warranty Applicability |
| Toyota | 1 April 2023, E20 Compliant | The manual states E10, but the brand clarifies that vehicles sold before April 2023 can use E20 fuel. |
| Renault | Material Compliant Since April 2021 | An ARAI study found no significant issues with Renault cars using E20 fuel in E10-compliant vehicles. |
| Mercedes-Benz | Material Compliant Since 2005 | Will Honour Warranty |
| JLR | Not Specified | Warranty Remains Valid for the Agreement |
| BMW | Not Specified | Will Honour Warranty |
| Volvo | Material Compliant Since 2023 | Will Honour Warranty |
With OEMs honoring the warranty for customers, there is now a significant relief for those concerned about the effects of E20 fuel on their vehicles. Customers with non-compliant vehicles have reported issues such as decreased fuel efficiency, performance problems, and increased component wear and tear after using E20 fuel. The clarification from brands regarding the compliance of older models has brought a sigh of relief for these customers.
For compatible vehicles, the E20 fuel enhances efficiency and offers slightly better performance. Additionally, the E20 fuel helps in lowering vehicle emissions.
Verdict
The introduction of E20 fuel has confused both new and old car owners. Compliance issues are creating significant problems for older vehicles. However, car manufacturers are providing warranty coverage, which offers reassurance and clarification for customers.
