What Is a Flex Fuel Dodge Caravan?
by Charles GreenThe Dodge Caravan is a minivan last produced by Chrysler in 2007. As of the 2011 model year, only the extended wheelbase Dodge Grand Caravan is available. These minivans run on gasoline, but some models are manufactured to use an ethanol blend, making them flex fuel vehicles.
Flex Fuel
Flex fuel vehicles are those able to run on any blend of ethanol up to 85 percent with 15 percent gasoline. That fuel is typically sold as E85 at select service stations. Modifications to the engine and fuel line, made on the factory production line, are required to enable these minivans to run on ethanol.
Identification
Select 3.3-liter V6 engines found in the Dodge Caravan and Dodge Grand Caravan are flex fuel capable. To confirm whether your minivan can use E85 fuel, check you owner's manual. Some models may identify FFV on exterior badging or by a yellow gas cap or by placarding.
Considerations
Compare your estimated fuel economy at www.fueleconomy.gov when considering using E85 versus straight gasoline. E85 burns cleaner than gasoline, but is less fuel efficient.
References
Writer Bio
Charles Green is a freelance writer in North Carolina who has been writing since 1992 and freelancing since 2002. His work appears in "435 South Magazine," "Wisconsin Golfer" and for various websites. Green earned a Bacheler of Science in business administration from Ramapo College of New Jersey.
