The Dodge ERF is a 3,564 cc, V6 gasoline direct-injection engine produced between 2014 and 2020. Developed as part of the Pentastar engine family, it features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), variable valve timing (VVT), and gasoline direct fuel injection (GDI). In standard tune, it delivers 210 kW (285 PS) and peak torque of 353 Nm, targeting full-size SUVs and light-duty truck applications.
Fitted to the Dodge Durango and Chrysler Aspen, the ERF was engineered for North American markets requiring strong towing capability and responsive acceleration. It uses a high-pressure fuel system (up to 200 bar) and advanced engine management calibration to balance performance with fuel economy. Emissions compliance is achieved through integrated exhaust manifolds, three-way catalytic converters, and closed-loop oxygen sensor feedback, meeting EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 and SULEV30 standards.
One documented concern is accelerated low-speed pre-ignition (LSPI) in early 2014–2016 units, particularly under heavy load with marginal fuel quality. This issue, referenced in Dodge Technical Service Bulletin 19-006-16, can lead to piston and ring land damage. From 2017 onward, revised piston crown geometry and updated ECU calibration reduced LSPI incidence across the ERF platform.
Production years 2014–2016 meet EPA Tier 2 Bin 5; 2017–2020 models comply with SULEV30 and OBD-II requirements (EPA ARB#DOD-ERF-2017).
The Dodge ERF is a 3,564 cc V6 gasoline engine designed for full-size SUVs and light-duty trucks (2014–2020). It combines gasoline direct injection with variable valve timing to deliver responsive mid-range power and improved fuel efficiency. Engineered to meet stringent EPA emissions standards, it balances towing performance with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,564 cc | |
| Fuel type | Gasoline (RON 91 min) | |
| Configuration | 60° V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 96.0 mm × 83.0 mm | |
| Power output | 210 kW (285 PS) @ 6,400 rpm | |
| Torque | 353 Nm @ 4,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDEV5 direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 (2014–2016); SULEV30 (2017–2020) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.2:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled, dual-thermostat | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Dual-row timing chain (primary and secondary) | |
| Oil type | SAE 5W-20, API SN or ILSAC GF-5 | |
| Dry weight | 198 kg |
The ERF's GDI system provides strong mid-range power ideal for towing and highway passing but requires strict adherence to 10,000-mile (16,000 km) oil change intervals to prevent LSPI and timing chain wear. SAE 5W-20 SN specification oil is essential due to its thermal stability and deposit control in high-temperature combustion environments. Use of Top Tier detergent gasoline is strongly recommended to minimize intake valve coking. Pre-2017 models should be inspected for piston ring land integrity per Dodge TSB 19-006-16. Extended idling and short-trip driving increase carbon buildup, making periodic intake cleaning advisable.
Oil Specs: Requires API SN or ILSAC GF-5 specification (Dodge Owner's Manual 2016). Not compatible with older SM or SL oils.
Emissions: SULEV30 applies to 2017–2020 models (EPA ARB#DOD-ERF-2017). Earlier models meet Tier 2 Bin 5.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349. Output consistent across North American markets with 91 RON fuel (Chrysler PT-2015).
Dodge Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs): 19-006-16, 16-008-15, 22-019-17
Chrysler Engineering Documentation: CHY-ERF-V6, ERF-CR-102
EPA ARB Certification Database (DOD-ERF-2017)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Test Code
The Dodge ERF was used across Dodge's WK platform with longitudinal mounting and shared with Chrysler under platform-sharing agreements. This engine received market-specific adaptations-fuel calibration changes for California emissions and revised piston design in 2017-and from 2017 the updated Durango models adopted enhanced ECU mapping, creating interchange limits. Partnerships within the Stellantis group enabled common architecture across brands. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the passenger-side cylinder head near the intake manifold (Dodge TSB 16-008-15). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('V' for ERF V6). Pre-2017 models have silver valve covers with black plastic timing covers; post-2017 units use black valve covers with revised piston design. Critical differentiation from Pentastar 3.6L non-ERF: ERF uses Bosch HDEV5 injectors with square ECU connectors, while earlier variants use Denso systems. Service parts require model-year verification—pistons and rings from pre-2017 ERF engines are not compatible with 2017+ units due to crown geometry changes (Dodge TSB 19-006-16).
The ERF's primary reliability risk is low-speed pre-ignition (LSPI) in early builds, with elevated incidence in towing applications using non-Top Tier fuel. Internal Dodge field reports from 2016 indicated a significant number of pre-2017 units requiring piston inspection before 120,000 km, while EPA records show increased emissions-related warranty claims in 2015+ models used in stop-start cycles. Extended oil intervals and short-trip operation increase LSPI and carbon buildup, making fuel quality and maintenance adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Dodge technical bulletins (2014-2020) and US EPA emissions warranty claims (2016-2021). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about DODGE ERF.
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