2004 Dodge Neon Owner's Manual - Page 142

142 STARTING AND OPERATING 2.0L High Output Engine Your engine is designed to meet all emission regulations and provide excellent fuel economy and performance when using high quality unleaded gasoline having an octane rating of 91. The purchase of higher octane is not recommended. High quality unleaded gasoline having a minumum octane rating of 87 may safely be used for your vehicle. Use of these lower octane gasolines, however, may result in reduced acceleration performance. Spark Knock Light spark knock at low engine speeds is not harmful to your engine. However, continued heavy spark knock at high speeds can cause damage and immediate service is required. Engine damage resulting from operation with a heavy spark knock may not be covered by the new vehicle warranty. Poor quality gasoline can cause problems such as hard starting, stalling and hesitations. If you experience these symptoms, try another brand of "regular" gasoline before considering service for the vehicle. Over 40 automobile manufacturers around the world have issued and endorsed consistent gasoline specifications (the World Wide Fuel Charter, WWFC) to define fuel properties necessary to deliver enhanced emissions, engine performance, and durability for your vehicle. The manufacturer recommends the use of gasolines that meet the WWFC specifications if they are available. Reformulated Gasoline Many areas of the country require the use of cleaner burning fuel referred to as Reformulated Gasoline. Reformulated gasolines contain oxygenates, and are specifically blended to reduce vehicle emissions and improve air quality. The manufacturer supports the use of reformulated gasolines. Properly blended reformulated gasolines will provide excellent performance and durability for the engine and fuel system components. Gasoline/Oxygenate Blends Some fuel suppliers blend unleaded gasoline with materials called oxygenates such as 10% ethanol, MTBE and ETBE. Oxygenates are required in some areas of the