Maximize Your Miles: Tips to Increase Gas Mileage in Your 2018 and Below RAM 1500

## Maximize Your Miles: Tips to Increase Gas Mileage in Your 2018 and Below RAM 1500

Owning a RAM 1500, especially models from 2018 and below, often comes with the understanding that fuel efficiency isn’t its primary strong suit. However, with rising fuel costs and a desire for more economical driving, there are numerous strategies and modifications you can employ to significantly improve your truck’s gas mileage. This guide focuses on practical tips for your 2018 and older RAM 1500.

### 1. Driving Habits: The Easiest & Most Impactful Changes

Your driving style has the most immediate effect on fuel consumption.

* **Smooth Acceleration & Braking:** Aggressive driving wastes fuel. Accelerate gently and anticipate stops to avoid sudden braking. Picture an egg under your accelerator pedal.
* **Maintain Consistent Speed:** Use cruise control on highways to avoid fluctuations. Every time you accelerate, you burn more fuel.
* **Observe Speed Limits:** Aerodynamic drag increases significantly at higher speeds. Driving 5-10 mph slower on the highway can yield noticeable savings.
* **Avoid Excessive Idling:** If you’re going to be stopped for more than 30 seconds (excluding traffic lights), turn off your engine. Modern engines are designed for frequent starts.
* **Combine Trips:** Plan your errands to minimize cold starts, as cold engines consume more fuel.

### 2. Vehicle Maintenance: Keep Your Truck Running Efficiently

A well-maintained truck is a fuel-efficient truck.

* **Tire Pressure:** Properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance. Check your tire pressure regularly (at least once a month) according to the recommended PSI on your driver’s side door jamb.
* **Oil Changes:** Use the recommended viscosity motor oil and stick to your service schedule. Clean oil reduces engine friction.
* **Air Filter:** A clogged air filter restricts airflow to the engine, forcing it to work harder. Replace it at recommended intervals or more often if you drive in dusty conditions.
* **Spark Plugs:** Worn spark plugs lead to inefficient combustion. Replace them as per your owner’s manual recommendations.
* **Wheel Alignment:** Improper alignment creates drag. Ensure your wheels are correctly aligned.
* **Oxygen Sensors:** Faulty oxygen sensors can send incorrect data to the engine’s computer, leading to a rich fuel mixture and reduced mileage. Replace them if diagnosed as bad.

### 3. Aerodynamic & Weight Reductions: Less Resistance, Less Effort

Reducing drag and weight makes your engine work less.

* **Remove Unnecessary Weight:** Don’t haul around items you don’t need in your bed or cabin. Every extra pound reduces fuel efficiency.
* **Tonno Cover/Bed Cover:** A tonneau cover can improve aerodynamics by smoothing airflow over the truck bed, especially at highway speeds. While some studies debate the magnitude, a well-fitting cover generally helps.
* **Remove Roof Racks (When Not in Use):** Roof racks and cargo carriers create significant aerodynamic drag. Remove them when empty.
* **Window Usage:** Keep windows closed at highway speeds. Open windows create drag.

### 4. Engine & Transmission Enhancements (Consider Carefully)

Some modifications can improve efficiency, but always research thoroughly and consider potential warranty impacts.

* **Performance Tuners/Programmers:** As discussed in previous posts, some aftermarket tuners offer “economy” tunes that optimize the engine for better fuel efficiency rather than raw power. These recalibrate fuel maps and shift points.
* **Caution:** Research reputable brands and understand that any engine tuning can affect your warranty.
* **Cold Air Intake (CAI):** A high-quality cold air intake can allow your engine to breathe easier, potentially leading to slight efficiency gains and improved throttle response. The gains are often minimal for fuel economy alone.
* **Cat-Back Exhaust Systems:** While often installed for sound, some performance exhaust systems can slightly improve exhaust flow, which can marginally contribute to efficiency.

### 5. Fuel Quality & Additives

* **Use Recommended Octane:** Stick to the octane level recommended in your owner’s manual. Higher octane than necessary doesn’t improve efficiency.
* **Fuel System Cleaners:** Periodically use a reputable fuel system cleaner (e.g., Chevron Techron, Lucas Fuel Treatment) to keep injectors and combustion chambers clean, ensuring efficient fuel delivery.

By implementing a combination of these driving habits, maintenance routines, and sensible modifications, you can significantly enhance the gas mileage of your 2018 and below RAM 1500, saving money at the pump and reducing your environmental footprint.