2005 Dodge Neon Owner Manual - Page 142

142 STARTING AND OPERATING 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. 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 country during the winter months to reduce carbon monoxide emissions. Fuels blended with these oxygenates may be used in your vehicle. CAUTION! DO NOT use gasolines containing Methanol. Gasoline containing methanol may damage critical fuel system components. Problems that result from using methanol/gasoline blends are not the responsibility of The manufacturer. While MTBE is an oxygenate made from Methanol, it does not have the negative effects of Methanol.