Can I put E85 in my Dodge Durango?
The short answer is no, you should not put E85 fuel in a Dodge Durango that is not specifically designed to run on it. E85 is a high-ethanol blend fuel that is not compatible with most standard gasoline-powered vehicles, including the Dodge Durango. Using E85 in a vehicle not designed for it can cause significant damage to the engine and fuel system.
What is E85 Fuel?
E85 is a fuel blend that contains up to 85% ethanol and only 15% gasoline. It is primarily used in flex-fuel vehicles, which are designed to run on either standard gasoline or E85. Ethanol has a lower energy density than gasoline, so E85 provides less fuel efficiency than regular gasoline.
Compatibility with the Dodge Durango
The Dodge Durango is a standard gasoline-powered SUV, not a flex-fuel vehicle. Its engine and fuel system components are not designed to handle the higher ethanol content of E85 fuel. Using E85 in a Durango can lead to a variety of problems, including:
- Reduced fuel efficiency: The higher ethanol content of E85 means you'll get fewer miles per gallon compared to regular gasoline.
- Damage to fuel system components: The ethanol in E85 can corrode and degrade rubber and plastic parts in the fuel system, leading to leaks and breakdowns.
- Decreased engine performance: The lower energy density of E85 can cause the engine to run less efficiently, resulting in reduced power and acceleration.
- Potential engine damage: In extreme cases, the use of E85 in a non-flex-fuel vehicle can cause serious engine damage, such as cylinder scoring or piston seizure.
To avoid these issues, it's crucial to only use the fuel recommended by the Dodge Durango's manufacturer, which is standard gasoline with no more than 10% ethanol (E10).
Conclusion
In summary, you should not put E85 fuel in a Dodge Durango, as it is not designed to run on that high-ethanol blend. Doing so can lead to a variety of problems, including reduced fuel efficiency, damage to the fuel system, and potential engine damage. Always refer to your Durango's owner's manual and use the recommended fuel type to ensure the proper operation and longevity of your vehicle.
