What type of gas does a Dodge Nitro take?
The Dodge Nitro runs on regular unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum). It is not a diesel, nor a flex-fuel vehicle, and both available engines—3.7L V6 and 4.0L V6—are designed for standard gasoline. This article explains what fuel to use and what octane level is appropriate for Nitro models produced between 2007 and 2012.
Fuel Type and Octane Requirements
Here is a concise guide to the gasoline type and octane levels recommended for Dodge Nitro variants.
- Gasoline type: Regular unleaded gasoline
- Minimum octane: 87 AKI (commonly labeled 87 octane in the United States)
- Higher-octane fuels: May be used, but are not required for normal operation
- Ethanol content: Gasoline containing up to 10% ethanol (E10) is acceptable
- Diesel and alternative fuels: Not compatible; Nitro is not a flex-fuel vehicle
Use fuels that meet these specifications to maintain engine performance and emissions compliance. If you live in a region with different octane labeling, follow local guidelines and refer to the owner’s manual for the exact requirement.
Engine Variants and Fuel Notes
Two gasoline engines were offered for the Nitro; both options run on standard gasoline. The 3.7L V6 and the 4.0L SOHC V6 rely on regular fuel, and there is no diesel or high-ethanol configuration in the model lineup sold in the U.S. market.
- 3.7L V6 Magnum: Regular unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum)
- 4.0L SOHC V6: Regular unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum)
Always verify the exact requirements for your vehicle using the door jamb fuel sticker or the official owner’s manual, as regional production changes or updates can occur.
Why Fuel Choice Matters
Using the wrong fuel type or the wrong octane can lead to knocking, reduced performance, and potential long-term damage. Following the manufacturer’s guidelines helps preserve reliability, fuel economy, and emissions compliance.
Summary
The Dodge Nitro takes regular unleaded gasoline with a minimum octane of 87. It accepts E10 blends and does not require premium fuel; diesel and higher-ethanol fuels are not suitable. Always consult the owner’s manual or the fuel door sticker for the exact specification for your engine and year.
What gas does Dodge recommend?
Dodge Charger and Challenger: Standard models typically require 87-octane regular unleaded gasoline, providing adequate daily driving performance.
What kind of gas does a Dodge Nitro take?
Hi there - based on the Owners Manual (Pg. 351-353), the 3.7 L engine requires 87 octane, and the 4.0 L engine requires 89 octane.
What happens if I put 93 instead of 91?
Putting 93 octane instead of 91 in a car is generally fine, and you will likely not notice a difference, as the engine's computer will adjust to the higher octane. In some high-performance or tuned vehicles, using 93 may provide a slight increase in performance or fuel economy, though this is not guaranteed. You may be wasting money, as higher octane fuel is more expensive and not needed if your car is not designed for it.
What to expect
- No change: Most modern cars are designed to automatically adjust to the higher octane fuel, so you probably won't notice any difference in performance or fuel economy.
- Potential for slight improvement: In some specific cases, particularly in high-performance or turbocharged engines, the higher octane can provide a slight increase in power or fuel efficiency.
- No harm to your engine: Using a higher octane fuel than recommended is not harmful to your engine.
- Higher cost: You will pay more at the pump for a fuel you don't need.
What to do if your car requires 91 octane
- Check your owner's manual to confirm the minimum octane requirement for your vehicle.
- If your car is not a high-performance model and requires 91 octane, there is no benefit to using 93 octane. You can simply use 91 octane and save money.
- You can continue to use 91 octane for all future fill-ups.
Should I use 87 or 89 gas?
Your car will run just fine. All modern cars can run 87,89,91,93. It's suggested that for maximum power that you use 93. If you're not at a track day event and just daily commuting 87 will serve you well. All modern cars are equipped with knock sensors to prevent engine damage from running lower octane fuel.
