How do I know if my Dodge Durango is flex fuel?
The quick answer is simple: look for a Flex Fuel label on the vehicle or consult the manual and VIN to confirm. If you see markings such as “Flex Fuel,” “E85,” or “FFV” on the fuel label or door jamb, your Durango is configured to run ethanol blends. If there’s no such label, verify with the manual or a dealer to be sure.
Where to look for flex-fuel indicators on the vehicle
There are several common places where a flex-fuel designation may appear. Start with these labels first.
Fuel filler door label
Open the fuel door and inspect the sticker. It may read Flex Fuel, E85, or FFV. This is the most direct on-vehicle indicator of ethanol compatibility.
- Labels can be brief, sometimes using only “E85” or “Flex Fuel.”
- If you see these terms, your Durango is designed to tolerate ethanol blends up to the indicated level.
- If the label says “Gasoline Only,” your model is not FFV.
If the fuel door label confirms FFV, you’ve identified the key indicator without needing to dig through paperwork.
Driver’s door jamb or window sticker
The placard on the driver’s door jamb or the Monroney (window) sticker for new vehicles can also reveal FFV capability or the approved fuel type.
- Look for terms like “Flex Fuel Vehicle,” “FFV,” or explicit E85 compatibility.
- Some labels may specify permissible ethanol blends and octane guidelines.
Documentation-based indicators are particularly useful if the fuel door label is faded or missing.
What the official documentation and records say
Documentation provides a definitive answer when labels are unclear. Check these sources for confirmation.
Owner’s manual and fuel information
Search the manual for sections titled Fuel, Fuel Requirements, or Ethanol Content. If it lists E85 or Flex Fuel capability, your Durango model and engine are FFV-compatible.
- Manuals vary by year and engine; a match here confirms official specifications.
- Note that some manuals distinguish between E15, E85, and other ethanol blends.
When the manual explicitly permits ethanol blends, you have a reliable confirmation of FFV status for that exact configuration.
Window sticker and VIN-based records
For new Durangos, the window sticker (Monroney) may note “Flex Fuel Vehicle” or show ethanol capability. For used cars, a VIN lookup with a dealer portal or Chrysler/Jeep/Dodge support can reveal FFV status.
- VIN-based checks pull official build data that may include FFV designation.
- Dealership services can confirm whether your specific vehicle is FFV, even if labels fade.
VIN or dealer verification is the most authoritative source when physical labels are inconclusive.
What to know before fueling with ethanol blends
If your Durango is FFV, you can use ethanol blends within the approved range, but be mindful of how ethanol affects performance and fuel economy.
- E85 usually reduces mpg versus pure gasoline due to its lower energy content.
- Some engines are calibrated for specific blend ranges; always follow the manual’s guidance.
- Using non-approved blends can impact performance, emissions, and possibly warranty coverage.
When in doubt, start with gasoline or consult a dealer to confirm the exact blend limits for your model and year.
How to verify your Durango’s status if you’re unsure
Uncertainty is common, especially with older or pre-owned Durangos. Here are the reliable routes to confirmation.
- Contact a Dodge dealer with your VIN for an official spec check.
- Use the manufacturer’s online resources or customer service to pull your vehicle’s build sheet.
- Visit a service department for a quick confirmation test of the fuel system compatibility.
Dealer confirmation remains the most dependable method when labels are unclear or missing.
Summary
In short, the surest way to know if your Dodge Durango is flex fuel is to check the fuel filler door label and the driver’s door jamb/window sticker, then cross-check with the owner’s manual or a VIN-based dealer lookup. If you see FFV/E85 labeling, your Durango can use ethanol blends within the approved range. If not, rely on gasoline and verify with the dealership if you’re unsure.
