Does a Dodge Durango need premium gas?
As a Dodge Durango owner or potential buyer, you might be wondering whether this popular SUV requires premium gasoline to perform at its best. Understanding the type of fuel your vehicle needs is crucial for maintaining its performance, efficiency, and longevity. Let’s dive into the specifics of the Dodge Durango and its fuel requirements.
Understanding the Dodge Durango's Engine Options
The Dodge Durango comes with multiple engine options, and the type of fuel required depends on the specific engine your vehicle is equipped with. Here’s a breakdown:
- 3.6L Pentastar V6 Engine: This is the standard engine in most Dodge Durango models. It is designed to run efficiently on regular unleaded gasoline (87 octane).
- 5.7L HEMI V8 Engine: Found in higher trims, this engine also runs on regular unleaded gasoline. However, using mid-grade (89 octane) fuel may slightly enhance performance under heavy loads, such as towing.
- 6.4L HEMI V8 Engine (SRT Models): This high-performance engine is optimized for premium gasoline (91 octane or higher). Using premium fuel ensures maximum power output and efficiency.
- 6.2L Supercharged HEMI V8 Engine (SRT Hellcat): This engine, featured in the Hellcat models, requires premium gasoline (91 octane or higher) to deliver its incredible performance and prevent engine knocking.
Why Premium Gasoline May Be Necessary for Some Engines
Premium gasoline has a higher octane rating, which helps prevent engine knocking—a condition where fuel combusts prematurely in the engine. High-performance engines, like the 6.4L and 6.2L HEMI V8s, operate at higher compression ratios and require premium fuel to function optimally. Using lower-octane fuel in these engines can lead to reduced performance, lower fuel efficiency, and potential long-term engine damage.
What Happens If You Use the Wrong Fuel?
Accidentally using regular gasoline in an engine that requires premium fuel is not ideal but may not cause immediate damage if done occasionally. However, repeated use of lower-octane fuel in high-performance engines can result in:
- Reduced horsepower and torque
- Lower fuel efficiency
- Increased engine knocking or pinging
- Potential long-term damage to engine components
Conclusion: Know Your Engine
Whether your Dodge Durango needs premium gas depends entirely on the engine under the hood. For most models with the 3.6L V6 or 5.7L V8 engines, regular unleaded gasoline is sufficient. However, if you own an SRT or Hellcat model with the 6.4L or 6.2L HEMI V8 engines, premium gasoline is a must to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
When in doubt, always refer to your owner’s manual for the manufacturer’s recommended fuel type. Proper fuel usage is a simple yet effective way to keep your Dodge Durango running smoothly for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I put regular gas in a premium car?
If you put lower-octane fuel into your high-octane vehicle, whether by mistake or to save money on gas, you'll probably notice the effects right away: things like poor fuel economy, reduced acceleration, and spark knock, which sounds like a high-pitched pinging or rattling noise.
Does a 5.7 Hemi need premium gas?
Dodge Charger R/T
Turns out it's also for owners of Fiat Chrysler's Hemi 5.7-liter V-8, as the company recommends 89-octane fuel for this engine.
What kind of gas does a 2024 Dodge Durango take?
Mechanical
| Engine Type | Regular Unleaded V-8 |
| Displacement | 5.7 L/345 |
| Horsepower (Net @ RPM) | 360 @ 5150 |
| Torque (Net @ RPM) | 390 @ 4250 |
| Transmission | Automatic w/OD |
Can I put 87 gas in my Dodge Charger?
You should run 89 or higher. Running 87 in it won't hurt it but the engine will retard the timing to prevent knocking, which robs performance and mileage. The user manual says it explicitly:
What happens if I put 91 instead of 87?
Chances are your vehicle would have reduced fuel economy, but no significant problems should occur. Ultimately, you simply should stick with the octane level your car needs as recommended by the manufacturer.
Is Dodge Durango V6 good on gas?
V6 Engine: A Practical and Efficient Choice
If you prioritize efficiency without sacrificing capability, the Dodge Durango's 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine is an excellent option. Delivering up to 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway (RWD), this powertrain proves that the Durango can be efficient while maintaining its utility.
Does premium gas get better mileage?
Using premium does not increase fuel economy, so don't waste money using high-test in a car if the manufacturer recommends regular gas.
Is a 5.7 Hemi good on gas?
5.7L HEMI V8 Engine. Fuel Efficiency (4X2): 15 mpg city/22 mpg highway. Fuel Efficiency (4X4): 15 mpg city/21 mpg highway.
Do I really need to use premium gas?
Should I use regular or premium gas? You should use the type of fuel the vehicle's manufacturer recommends. A vehicle that runs on regular gas will not run any better on premium fuel. Using premium gas in a vehicle designed for premium gas will help the car perform better and avoid damaging the engine with regular gas.
Can you put regular gas in a Durango?
Dodge Durango: Most Durango models can run on 89- or 87-octane regular unleaded gasoline, while the SRT variant requires premium 91-octane or higher for optimal performance.
