When you own a Ram 1500 EcoDiesel, you’re driving a machine renowned for its impressive torque and efficiency. With a towing capacity of up to 9,600 pounds and 480 lb-ft of torque, this truck is built to handle serious workloads. But the factory setup is just the beginning. Whether you’re towing heavy loads, conquering off-road trails, or navigating daily commutes, the right Ram 1500 accessories can significantly enhance your truck’s performance, handling, and longevity. In this guide, we’ll delve into the top upgrades and accessories for your 3.0L EcoDiesel, providing expert insights, product recommendations, and real-world benefits to help you get the most out of your investment.
Choosing the Best Ram 1500 Accessories for 3.0L EcoDiesel Performance & Protection
Your Ram 1500 EcoDiesel is a solid machine straight from the factory, but the right accessories can take its performance, durability, and functionality to the next level. Whether you’re looking to haul heavier loads, improve fuel economy, or tackle rougher terrain, upgrading key components ensures your truck is operating at its peak.
For towing, suspension upgrades like air bag kits prevent sag and improve stability. Performance-focused owners will benefit from cold air intakes and exhaust upgrades that enhance airflow and efficiency. If you’re taking your truck off-road, investing in skid plates, upgraded tires, and bed protection keeps your EcoDiesel rugged and ready for any challenge.
Upgrading your truck isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about maximizing capability and longevity. Below, we dive into the best accessories that will keep your Ram 1500 EcoDiesel running strong, no matter how you use it.
Ram 1500 EcoDiesel Accessories: More Power, Better Efficiency
If you’re looking to get more out of your truck—whether it’s quicker acceleration, better towing power, or improved fuel economy—a few well-chosen upgrades will make a noticeable difference. By enhancing airflow, reducing lag, and optimizing combustion, these Ram 1500 upgrades help you unlock your diesel’s full potential.
Cold Air Intakes: Best Ram 1500 Accessories for Power & MPG
A cold air intake reduces airflow restriction, allowing your turbo to spool faster and work more efficiently. The result? Sharper throttle response, increased airflow, and slight horsepower gains—all without compromising reliability. This is a must-have upgrade if you’re looking to improve overall engine efficiency while getting the most out of your EcoDiesel.
Ram Exhaust Systems for Sound & Flow
Your factory exhaust is restrictive, limiting airflow and suppressing your truck’s true potential. A DPF-back exhaust system improves turbo spool-up, reduces backpressure, and enhances fuel efficiency while also giving your truck a more aggressive tone. This upgrade isn’t just about sound—it directly contributes to better towing performance and engine longevity.
Ram1500 Throttle Boosters for Throttle Response
Ever step on the throttle and feel like your truck is thinking about it first? That’s throttle lag. A throttle booster sharpens pedal response instantly, making acceleration feel more direct and controlled. Whether you’re merging onto the highway or towing a trailer, this upgrade gives you the confidence and responsiveness your EcoDiesel should have had from the start.
In addition to cold air intakes, exhaust systems, and throttle boosters, performance tuners are another must-have upgrade for EcoDiesel owners looking to unlock more horsepower and torque. A good tuner allows you to adjust fuel mapping, shift points, and throttle sensitivity, helping you maximize both power and efficiency. Upgrading to higher-quality synthetic fluids, including engine oil and transmission fluid, can also help reduce friction and extend the life of your powertrain. If you’re pushing your truck hard, consider adding an intercooler upgrade to keep intake temps lower and improve turbo efficiency.
Ram Truck Accessories for Towing & Hauling
Towing with your Ram 1500 EcoDiesel means demanding more from your truck’s suspension, visibility, and overall stability. The right upgrades ensure your truck handles heavy loads safely and efficiently, preventing strain on critical components while maximizing control. Whether you’re hauling a work trailer or towing for recreation, these accessories will keep your EcoDiesel running strong under pressure.
Ram 1500 Air Bag Suspension Kits for Better Load Support
A heavy trailer can cause rear-end sag, compromising handling and stability. Air bag suspension kits provide on-demand leveling support, keeping your truck properly balanced under load. This reduces strain on your rear suspension, improves ride quality, and enhances braking performance—especially when towing at max capacity.
Upgraded Ram Towing Mirrors for Safety
Factory mirrors don’t always provide the field of vision needed when towing large trailers. Extended towing mirrors improve lane-change awareness, minimize blind spots, and help you keep an eye on your load with confidence. For added convenience, some models feature power adjustments, heating elements, and integrated turn signals to enhance safety even further.
Beyond air bag suspension kits and towing mirrors, serious haulers should look at upgraded trailer brake controllers to improve stopping power and prevent trailer sway under load. A weight distribution hitch can further stabilize your trailer, especially when towing heavier loads, while rear sway bars help control body roll and keep your truck level on uneven roads. If you’re frequently hauling in low-light conditions, high-output LED reverse lights make it easier to navigate tight spaces when backing up with a trailer.
Ram Accessories for Protection & Off-Road Durability
Your Ram 1500 EcoDiesel is built tough, but that doesn’t mean it’s invincible. Whether you’re hitting the trails, hauling gear, or navigating rough job sites, the right protection upgrades will keep your truck in peak condition. Skid plates, heavy-duty floor mats, and seat covers aren’t just for looks—they provide real-world durability and defense against wear, tear, and unexpected hazards.
Ram 1500 Skid Plates for Off-Roading
Off-road terrain, road debris, and even unexpected obstacles can wreak havoc on your truck’s undercarriage. A heavy-duty skid plate protects vital components like the oil pan, fuel tank, and transmission from damage, keeping you on the road instead of in the shop. If you take your truck off-road or work in rough environments, this is a must-have upgrade for long-term durability.
Ram Floor Mats & Seat Covers for Interior Protection
Your truck’s interior takes just as much abuse as the exterior. All-weather floor mats trap dirt, mud, and spills, making cleanup easy, while durable seat covers prevent stains and wear from daily use. Whether you’re tracking in grime from a job site or keeping your truck ready for weekend adventures, these accessories ensure your interior stays in top shape for the long haul.
If you’re taking your EcoDiesel off the pavement, rock sliders and fender flares offer additional protection against trail hazards, keeping your truck’s body panels dent-free. Upgraded off-road bumpers provide improved clearance and mounting points for winches, auxiliary lights, and tow hooks—a must for serious off-roaders. For those tackling mud, snow, or loose terrain, a locking rear differential enhances traction and stability, helping you power through tough conditions without getting stuck.
Exterior & Convenience Upgrades for Ram 1500 EcoDiesel Owners
Your truck isn’t just about power—it’s about practicality and ease of use. Whether you’re hauling equipment, heading out on weekend adventures, or just looking for a more comfortable daily driver, exterior upgrades make a real difference. The right Ram 1500 accessories enhance your truck’s function, protection, and overall driving experience.
Tonneau Covers: Best Ram 1500 Accessories for Cargo Protection
Your truck bed is built for carrying gear, but without proper protection, your cargo is exposed to harsh weather, road debris, and theft. A tonneau cover shields your tools, equipment, or weekend haul from the elements while also improving aerodynamics, which can lead to better fuel efficiency. Whether you go for a soft roll-up cover for quick access or a hard folding cover for added security, a tonneau cover is a practical must-have for any Ram 1500 owner.
Side Steps & Running Boards: Ram Truck Accessories for Easy Entry
Lifted truck? If your Ram 1500 sits higher than stock—whether from a lift kit or just its rugged stance—getting in and out can be a hassle, especially for passengers. Side steps and running boards provide a sturdy stepping surface, making entry and exit easier while also protecting your truck’s rocker panels from road debris. Plus, they add a finished, aggressive look that complements your truck’s overall build. Retractable running boards offer a sleeker look compared to traditional fixed steps and tuck away when not in use.
To enhance both style and function, consider bed racks or headache racks, which provide additional cargo organization and protection, especially for those carrying oversized loads. If you frequently access your truck bed, a bed step makes reaching inside easier, and tailgate assist kits help prevent heavy tailgate slams, adding convenience and longevity to your truck’s exterior components.
Best Ram 1500 Accessories by EcoDiesel Model Year
While both generations of the Ram 1500 EcoDiesel offer strong fuel economy, torque, and towing capability, they have different performance characteristics that impact which upgrades provide the biggest gains. Whether you’re driving an early-model 2014-2018 EcoDiesel or the newer 2020-2023 version, knowing which accessories make the most sense for your truck ensures the best performance, reliability, and efficiency.
2014-2018 Ram 1500 EcoDiesel: Unlocking Performance & Stability
The first-gen EcoDiesel was widely praised for its fuel economy and smooth torque delivery, but factory airflow restrictions, throttle lag, and transmission cooling limitations held back its true potential. Car and Driver tested a 2015 Ram 1500 EcoDiesel and recorded a 0-60 mph time of 9.0 seconds—1.2 seconds slower than their long-term V6 model (Car and Driver). This highlights why airflow and throttle response upgrades are among the best investments for these trucks, especially for drivers wanting quicker acceleration and improved towing confidence.
Some of the best upgrades for these years include:
- Cold Air Intake – Increases airflow, improves throttle response, and helps the turbo spool faster.
- Throttle Booster – Eliminates factory throttle lag for sharper acceleration and better drivability.
- Performance Tuner – Adjusts shift points and fuel mapping to optimize towing and efficiency.
- Air Bag Suspension Kit – Keeps the truck level and stable under heavy payloads.
- Upgraded Transmission Cooler – Prevents overheating, especially under max towing loads.
2020-2023 Ram 1500 EcoDiesel: Maximizing Towing Power & Efficiency
By 2020, Ram significantly upgraded the EcoDiesel, improving both power and efficiency. The 3.0L EcoDiesel’s horsepower increased from 240 to 260 HP, while torque jumped from 420 to 480 lb-ft, making it the most powerful diesel in its class at that time (MotorTrend). These improvements enhanced towing capacity, low-end power, and overall driving performance, giving the newer EcoDiesel stronger acceleration and better off-road capability.
The top upgrades for these trucks include:
- Cold Air Intake + Mild Tuner – Works with the newer ECM tuning for better airflow and power gains.
- Upgraded Intercooler – Lowers intake temps to reduce heat soak and improve efficiency.
- Heavy-Duty Rear Sway Bar – Improves trailer stability and reduces body roll under heavy loads.
- Retractable Running Boards – Provides easy access without sacrificing ground clearance.
- Tonneau Cover – Protects cargo and improves aerodynamics for better highway MPG.
Upgrade Your 1500 EcoDiesel with the Best Ram Accessories Today
Your Ram 1500 EcoDiesel is already built for performance, but the right upgrades take it to the next level. Whether you’re looking for more power, towing stability, off-road protection, or everyday convenience, Diesel Power Products has the best Ram 1500 accessories to keep your truck running stronger, longer, and looking sharp.
Shop Ram 1500 EcoDiesel Accessories Here
FAQs: Ram 1500 Accessories & Upgrades
What are the best Ram 1500 EcoDiesel accessories for performance?
The best performance upgrades for your Ram 1500 EcoDiesel focus on maximizing airflow, reducing lag, and improving efficiency. A cold air intake helps your engine breathe better, while a DPF-back exhaust system reduces restrictions and enhances turbo performance. For quicker throttle response, a throttle booster is a must-have to eliminate factory lag.
Which Ram 1500 truck accessories improve towing?
If you’re towing heavy loads, stability and control are key. Air bag suspension kits prevent rear sag and improve weight distribution, while upgraded towing mirrors give you better visibility. A high-quality trailer brake controller is also a smart investment to improve stopping power and safety when hauling significant weight.
Do cold air intakes increase MPG on a Ram EcoDiesel?
Yes, a well-designed cold air intake can improve fuel economy by optimizing airflow and combustion efficiency. Less restriction means your engine doesn’t have to work as hard, leading to small but noticeable gains in MPG, especially under towing or highway conditions.
Are skid plates necessary for off-roading?
If you take your EcoDiesel off-road, skid plates are highly recommended. Your oil pan, transmission, and fuel tank are all vulnerable to damage from rocks, stumps, and debris. A sturdy skid plate setup gives your undercarriage the protection it needs to handle rough terrain without costly repairs.
What’s the best way to protect my truck’s interior?
A hardworking truck sees a lot of dirt, spills, and wear. The best way to protect your Ram’s interior is with all-weather floor mats and seat covers. Heavy-duty mats keep mud, water, and debris off your carpets, while durable seat covers prevent stains and wear, keeping your interior in top shape.
Have more questions about your EcoDiesel or the best Ram 1500 accessories? Our diesel enthusiasts are here to help. Give us a call or send an e-mail to cs@dieselpowerproducts.com anytime!