I have a 2001 Dodge Ram 1500 with a 5.9 engine. I'm using my truck mostly to drive to and from school now but occasionally work and drive in the city a lot with it. I get 11 city and maybe 13-14 hwy. anyone have any knowledge on how to improve that? I've heard clean the air filter but what else could help? Thanks!

 

This type of question used to be quite common here when fuel prices were high, and the answers were always pretty similar... and unfortunately won't be able to help you much:

-Keep your foot out of it
-Purchase another vehicle for long trips
-slow down on the highway. 72mph and under is a nice place.


There are a ton of things you can do to marginally improve your economy... and some things are myths as well. Aftermarket air filters, tuning chips, headers, exhaust, tonneau covers etc. will maybe bump your economy to 16mpg highway and 12-13 city, but will cost in the neighborhood of $2500 to do all of that.

At $2.50/gallon, if you improve your economy and assuming 15k miles a year at a 60/40 highway city mix, here are your savings:

your fuel costs would go from $3094/year down to about 2560 for an annual savings of $534... IF you're able to get those improvements, and I was probably aggressive on that.


Basically you're looking at a 5year ROI on fuel savings AT BEST... and it's ultimately your decision, but it's the truck owners paradox... trucks are fantastic, fun, comfortable, and fashionable... but they suck down fuel and there isn't much you can do about it.

Newer trucks have Active fuel management, 8speed transmissions, aerodynamics etc that have eeked them up to 22mpg highway... but they cost A TON. 3



I am not trying to be rude and not answer your question, but I'm just trying to give you as much information as possible because there is no right answer. For me, personally, it comes down to two scenarios:

1. Do I love driving a truck enough to eat the $1500 or so more it costs me over a car in gas per year? (for me it's an easy yes)

2. If no, does the cost of renting or borrowing a truck when I actually need it's towing/hauling capabilities outweigh the $1500 premium per year?



Sorry for the long post, but hopefully you feel a bit more informed!

 

GMCSierrafan, Thank you for your response. I really appreciate the information. Definitely very helpful. Your layout of expenses was extremely helpful.