Sebring Convertible V6-2.7L (2009)
Fuel: Description and Operation
Flexible Fuel Vehicles
FLEXIBLE FUEL VEHICLES
The information is for Flexible Fuel Vehicles (FFV) only. These vehicles can be identified by the unique Fuel Filler Door Label that states Ethanol
(E-85) or Unleaded Gasoline Only. This article only covers those subjects that are unique to these vehicles.
CAUTION: Only vehicles with the E-85 fuel filler door label can operate on E-85.
Ethanol Fuel (E-85)
E-85 is a mixture of approximately 85% fuel ethanol and 15% unleaded gasoline.
WARNING: Ethanol vapors are extremely flammable and could cause serious personal injury. Never have any smoking materials lit in or near
the vehicle when removing the fuel filler tube cap (gas cap) or filling the tank. Do not use E-85 as a cleaning agent and never use it
near an open flame.
Fuel Requirements
The vehicle will operate on both unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87, or E-85 fuel, or any mixture of these two.
For best results, a refueling pattern that alternates between E-85 and unleaded gasoline should be avoided. When you do switch fuels, it is recommended
that
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you do not switch when the fuel gauge indicates less than 1/4 full
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you do not add less than 5 gallons when refueling
-
you operate the vehicle immediately after refueling for a period of at least 5 minutes
Observing these precautions will avoid possible hard starting and/or significant deterioration in driveability during warm up.
NOTE: When the ambient temperature is above 90°F (32C), you may experience hard starting and rough idle following start up even if the
above recommendations are followed.
Engine Oil Selection for Operating on E-85
If vehicle operates on E-85 fuel either full or part-time, use only Mopar (R) Flexible Fuel 5W-30 engine oil or an equivalent that meets Chrysler
Standard MS-9214. Equivalent commercial Flexible Fuel engine oils may be labeled as Multi-Fuel, Variable Fuel, Flexible Fuel, etc. These engine oils
may be satisfactory if they meet the Chrysler Standard.
SAE 5W-30 engine oil is preferred for use in Flexible Fuel engines.
CAUTION: If Flexible Fuel engine oil is not used when using E-85 fuel, engine wear or damage may result.
Engine Oil Selection for Operating on Gasoline
If you operate the vehicle on regular unleaded gasoline ONLY, use Mopar (R) oil or an equivalent that meets certified API (American Petroleum
Institute) quality.
Starting
The characteristics of E-85 fuel make it unsuitable for use when ambient temperatures fall below 0°F (-17°C). In the range of 0°F (-17°C) to 32°F (0°C),
you may experience an increase in the time it takes for your engine to start, and a deterioration in driveability (sags and/or hesitations) until the engine is
fully warmed up.
Cruising Range
Because E-85 fuel contains less energy per gallon than gasoline, you will experience an increase in fuel consumption. You can expect your MPG and
your driving range to decrease by about 30% compared to gasoline operation.
Replacement Parts
Many components in your Flexible Fuel Vehicle (FFV) are designed to be compatible with ethanol. Always be sure that your vehicle is serviced with
correct ethanol compatible parts.
