2018-2023 Ram 1500 3.0L EcoDiesel Tuning

Tuning the 2018-2023 Ram 1500 3.0L EcoDiesel

Start with the factory baseline. The 2018 Ram 1500 and the 2019 Ram 1500 Classic run the second-generation EcoDiesel at 240 hp and 420 lb-ft. The 2020-2023 DT trucks got the third-generation engine, which Ram called 80 percent new, rated 260 hp at 3,600 rpm and 480 lb-ft at 1,600 rpm. Both are VM Motori 3.0L V6s with Bosch common-rail injection and a single variable-geometry turbo.

Both are also wrapped in a full emissions system: high-pressure cooled EGR, an oxidation catalyst and diesel particulate filter with active regeneration, and selective catalytic reduction with DEF dosing and NOx sensors. The 2020-2023 engine adds a second, low-pressure EGR loop that draws exhaust after the DPF. Any tuning decision on this truck starts from that hardware, and every piece of it stays in place and working.

Where tuning goes wrong

Added power means added load on the aftertreatment. That is why Banks builds DPF regeneration status and DEF level monitoring into the iDash display on its EcoDiesel modules: tuning raises exhaust load, and the emissions system has to stay fully functional to handle it. Watch both if you add power.

The second concern is how a product touches the engine computer. Banks markets its Derringer as needing no ECM reflash. Third-generation trucks launched with 5-year/100,000-mile powertrain coverage, so if yours is still inside that window, ask how any tuning product works before you plug it in.

Compliant power vs. stock

The verified compliant path for this engine is the Banks Derringer, an inline module that adjusts fueling and boost through the OBD-II port and the sensor harness and leaves the emissions system untouched. It carries CARB EO D-161-169, which makes it legal in all 50 states. On a 2018 Ram 1500 it is rated for up to 40 hp and 63 lb-ft across six levels of roughly 8 hp each, with about a 3-hour plug-in install. The kit for the 2019 Ram 1500 Classic and the 2020-2023 trucks is rated for up to 57 hp and 73 lb-ft at Level 6, with six levels about 10 hp apart, and its AutoRate feature adjusts the calibration in real time from throttle position, rpm, coolant temperature and exhaust gas temperature.

Stock is a sound choice too. If you want the truck exactly as Ram built it, leave the calibration alone and put your money into seeing what the engine is doing. That is where an interface like the MPVI4 fits.

What we carry

The HP Tuners MPVI4 is the interface hardware in HP Tuners' system. It plugs into the truck's OBD-II port and connects to a laptop running HP Tuners' VCM Suite software. On the EcoDiesel we treat it as a scan and data-logging tool, a way to see what the engine is doing, because we have no EO-numbered flash calibration to put on this truck. HP Tuners publishes which vehicles and modules its software supports, and that list changes, so confirm your model year there before you order. For tuning products on other diesel platforms, browse the tuners collection.

Fitment notes

The EcoDiesel was offered only in the Ram 1500; there is no 2500 or 3500 version. The 2018 Ram 1500 and 2019 Ram 1500 Classic are the DS body with the second-generation engine, and 2020-2023 trucks are the DT body with the third-generation engine. The new-body 2019 Ram 1500 had no diesel at all. Banks splits its Derringer kits at model year 2018/2019 rather than at the engine change, so a 2019 Classic takes the later kit even though it has the earlier engine. A 2025 or later Ram 1500 with a 3.0L is a gasoline Hurricane six, not an EcoDiesel. Verify by VIN.

Frequently asked questions

Is there an emissions-compliant flash tune for the EcoDiesel?

Not one we can verify. No CARB-exempt ECM flash tune for the EcoDiesel turned up in the sources we checked, so we do not list custom flash tuning as a compliant option for this truck. The verified route is the Banks Derringer inline module under CARB EO D-161-169, which needs no ECM reflash.

How much power does the compliant module add?

Banks rates the 2018 Ram 1500 kit at up to 40 hp and 63 lb-ft, with six levels of roughly 8 hp each. The kit for the 2019 Classic and 2020-2023 trucks is rated at up to 57 hp and 73 lb-ft at Level 6, with six levels about 10 hp apart. Both carry CARB EO D-161-169.

What will the HP Tuners MPVI4 do on my Ram 1500?

It connects a laptop running HP Tuners' VCM Suite to the truck through the OBD-II port. On this engine we position it as a scan and logging tool, since we know of no EO-numbered flash calibration for the EcoDiesel. Check HP Tuners' vehicle-support list for your exact model year before you buy.

Will adding power affect my DPF and DEF system?

It adds load. Tuning raises exhaust load, which is why Banks puts DPF regeneration status and DEF level on the iDash with its EcoDiesel modules. Keep the emissions system fully functional and watch both readings.

Why does a 2019 Ram 1500 Classic take a different Derringer than a 2018?

Banks splits its kits at model year 2018/2019, not at the engine-generation change. The 2019 Classic still has the second-generation engine, but Banks lists it with the 2020-2023 kit. Order by model year, not by engine generation.

Not sure what fits? Call the shop at the number in the header, or use the fitment checker on any product page. We install everything we sell.