Earlier here at RamZone, we suggested a New Year’s resolution to improve our driving habits in the interest of better fuel economy. As long as we’re at it, here are three more ways we can resolve to be good owners to our Ram Trucks in 2014.
Regular Oil Changes: Current-model Rams are equipped with an automatic oil change indicator system to monitor and inform you when service is due. However, under severe driving conditions the light may illuminate as soon as 3,500 miles, and in no case should the oil change interval ever exceed 10,000 miles or 12 months, 8,000 miles on 2500/3500 models. Good service habits will help maintain performance and extend vehicle life—it’s a fact.
Keep Your Ram Clean: Nothing boosts pride of ownership like keeping your truck neat and clean. And regular washing saves wear and tear on the finish, allowing the paint to keep its shine longer. One quick tip: Kitchen dish detergent is NOT a good choice. It can attack the paint’s polymers and will strip off any wax. Use a quality product designed for automotive finishes, for example Mopar Car Wash Concentrate. Remember: A clean truck is a happy truck.
Check Tire Pressures Often: Even if your Ram Truck is equipped with a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), you still need to check your tire pressures manually on a routine basis—say, every other fuel fill-up. The recommended pressures tailored for your specific vehicle will be found on a tag inside the driver’s door. A handy rule of thumb: Tire pressure will fall one psi for every 12-degree drop in temperature (Fahrenheit). The importance of proper tire pressures cannot be overstated. Inflation has a direct effect on tire, suspension, and vehicle life, and even on the truck’s handling in an emergency situation. Take good care of your Ram Truck and your Ram Truck will take good care of you, throughout 2014 and beyond.