Unlocking the Mystery: How to Tell if Ford Ranger is Flex Fuel

The Ford Ranger is a popular pickup truck known for its ruggedness and versatility. But did you know that some Ranger models are equipped with a flex-fuel engine? This means they can run on a blend of gasoline and ethanol, offering potential fuel cost savings and environmental benefits. However, knowing if your Ranger is flex fuel can be a bit tricky.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through the various ways to determine if your Ford Ranger is flex fuel. We’ll cover everything from checking the VIN to examining the fuel filler door and even understanding the engine specifications. By the end of this post, you’ll have a clear understanding of whether your Ranger is capable of running on E85 fuel.

Checking the VIN for Flex Fuel Capability

The most reliable way to determine if your Ford Ranger is flex fuel is by checking the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This unique 17-character code contains all the essential information about your vehicle, including its engine type and fuel compatibility.

Here’s how to check your VIN for flex fuel capability:

1. Locate your VIN: You can find your VIN on your vehicle’s registration, insurance documents, or on a sticker located on the driver’s side dashboard.

2. Decode the VIN: The 8th digit of your VIN indicates the engine type. If the 8th digit is a “6,” it signifies a flex-fuel engine.

3. Online VIN decoder: You can also use online VIN decoders to quickly and easily determine your Ranger’s engine type and fuel compatibility. There are numerous free VIN decoding websites available.

Examining the Fuel Filler Door

Another way to identify a flex-fuel Ranger is by examining the fuel filler door. Flex-fuel vehicles typically have a sticker on the fuel filler door indicating their E85 compatibility.

Look for a sticker that states “E85 Flex Fuel” or “Flex Fuel” along with a symbol that resembles a yellow flame. This sticker is a clear indication that your Ranger is capable of running on E85.

Checking the Engine Specifications

If you have access to your Ford Ranger‘s owner’s manual, you can find information about the engine type and fuel compatibility. The manual will list the engine specifications, including the fuel type and whether it’s a flex-fuel engine.

Looking for the Flex Fuel Badge

Some Ford Rangers equipped with flex-fuel engines might have a “Flex Fuel” badge on the tailgate or elsewhere on the vehicle. This badge is a clear visual indicator of the vehicle’s E85 compatibility.

Understanding the Engine Type

If you’re unsure about the engine type, you can consult your Ford Ranger‘s owner’s manual or look up the engine code on the engine itself. Flex-fuel Rangers typically have a 3.0L V6 engine with the code “V6 FFV.”

Consulting a Ford Dealership

If you’re still uncertain about whether your Ranger is flex fuel, you can always contact your local Ford dealership. They can access your vehicle’s information through their systems and provide you with a definitive answer.

The Benefits of a Flex-Fuel Ranger

If your Ford Ranger is equipped with a flex-fuel engine, you can enjoy several benefits:

• Cost Savings: E85 fuel is typically cheaper than gasoline, potentially saving you money on your fuel costs. However, it’s important to note that E85 has a lower energy density, meaning you’ll need to refuel more frequently.

• Environmental Benefits: E85 is a renewable fuel source derived from corn, reducing your carbon footprint compared to gasoline.

• Increased Power: Flex-fuel engines are designed to run on a blend of gasoline and ethanol, which can potentially increase horsepower and torque.

Considerations Before Using E85

While flex-fuel engines offer advantages, it’s important to consider the following before using E85:

• Fuel Economy: E85 has a lower energy density than gasoline, so you’ll likely experience a decrease in fuel economy.

• Engine Compatibility: Not all vehicles are compatible with E85. Make sure your Ranger is specifically designed for flex fuel before using E85.

• Fuel Availability: E85 is not as readily available as gasoline. You may need to search for specific gas stations that offer E85.

Wrapping Up: The E85 Advantage

Whether you’re looking to save money on fuel costs or reduce your environmental impact, knowing if your Ford Ranger is flex fuel can be a valuable piece of information. By checking the VIN, examining the fuel filler door, understanding the engine type, or consulting a Ford dealership, you can confidently determine if your Ranger is capable of running on E85.

Remember, using E85 can offer advantages, but it’s crucial to ensure your vehicle is compatible and to consider the potential trade-offs in fuel economy and fuel availability.

What You Need to Know

Q1: Can I use E85 in a non-flex fuel Ford Ranger?

A1: No, you should never use E85 in a vehicle that is not specifically designed for flex fuel. Using E85 in a non-flex fuel vehicle can damage the engine and void your warranty.

Q2: How do I know if my Ford Ranger is using E85?

A2: You can check your fuel gauge. Flex-fuel vehicles have a special fuel gauge that indicates the percentage of ethanol in the fuel tank. If you see a “E85” indicator on the gauge, it means you’re currently using E85.

Q3: What are the downsides of using E85?

A3: The main downsides of using E85 are lower fuel economy and reduced range. You’ll also need to find gas stations that sell E85, which may not be as readily available as gasoline.

Q4: Can I switch between gasoline and E85 in my flex-fuel Ranger?

A4: Yes, you can switch between gasoline and E85 in a flex-fuel Ranger. However, it’s recommended to avoid frequent switching, as it can potentially cause issues with the engine and fuel system.