How to Get Better Gas Mileage in a Lifted Truck

Lifted trucks are often used for off-road adventures, hauling heavy loads, or simply for aesthetics. However, one downside to owning a lifted truck is that they tend to have lower gas mileage due to the added weight of the lift kit and larger tires. In this article, we will discuss some tips and techniques for improving the gas mileage of a lifted truck. 

First and foremost, the most effective way to improve the gas mileage of any vehicle is to drive more efficiently. This means accelerating and braking smoothly, avoiding excess speeding, and minimizing the time spent idling. These simple techniques can have a significant impact on your fuel economy, especially if you are someone who tends to drive aggressively.

Another way to improve the gas mileage of a lifted truck is to properly maintain the vehicle. This includes keeping the tires properly inflated, as underinflated tires can increase rolling resistance and lead to decreased fuel efficiency. It is also a good idea to regularly change the air filter and spark plugs, as a dirty air filter can restrict airflow to the engine, and worn spark plugs can affect the combustion process. Additionally, regularly scheduled oil changes and using the proper grade of oil can help improve the fuel efficiency of your truck.

One measure to consider is to downsize your tires. Larger tires may look more aesthetically pleasing on a lifted truck, but they can also significantly reduce gas mileage due to the increased rolling resistance. By downsizing to a smaller tire with a lower profile, you can potentially improve your gas mileage by a few miles per gallon. Just be sure to check with the manufacturer or a professional to ensure that you are using a tire size that is safe and compatible with your vehicle.

Another factor to consider is the type of driving you are doing. If you are driving mostly on the highway, you may want to consider using a taller gear ratio to take advantage of the truck's momentum. This can help reduce the load on the engine, which can improve fuel efficiency. However, if you are driving mostly in the city or in stop-and-go traffic, a shorter gear ratio may be more efficient as it can help the engine respond more quickly to acceleration.

If you are willing to make more significant changes to your truck, you may want to consider adding aero modifications. These can include adding a front air dam, rear diffuser, or even a full-fledged body kit. These modifications can help reduce drag and improve the truck's overall aerodynamics, which can lead to improved fuel efficiency. Just be sure to do your research and consult with a professional before making any major modifications to your vehicle.

Another option to consider is to switch to a more fuel-efficient driving mode. Many modern trucks come equipped with driving modes that allow you to adjust the performance of the vehicle based on your driving conditions. For example, some trucks have an "Eco" mode that can help improve fuel efficiency by limiting the power output of the engine and transmission. By using this mode, you may be able to save a few miles per gallon.

Finally, consider using a fuel additive or switch to a higher-quality fuel. Some additives claim to improve the fuel efficiency of your vehicle by cleaning the fuel system and reducing friction. While there is some debate about the effectiveness of these additives, some users have reported improved fuel efficiency after using them. Additionally, using higher-quality fuel can help improve the combustion process and potentially lead to improved fuel efficiency.

In conclusion, there are a number of ways to improve the gas mileage of a lifted truck. By driving efficiently, properly maintaining the vehicle, downsizing tires, adjusting the gear ratio, adding aero modifications, using a fuel-efficient driving mode, and using fuel additives or higher-quality fuel, you can get better gas mileage when driving your lifted truck.