Cummins engines are widely respected for their strength and durability, but let’s face it—everyone wants to get more out of their fuel. Whether you’re hauling heavy loads or just looking to stretch those miles on the highway, high-performance diesel tuners can help. These devices tweak your engine’s settings, improving fuel efficiency, boosting power, and even enhancing overall performance.
In this guide, we’ll walk through five top diesel tuners for Cummins engines that can help you maximize fuel economy, along with key features and what to look for when choosing the right one for your vehicle.
What’s a Diesel Tuner, and Why Do You Need One?
A diesel tuner is a device that plugs into your truck’s ECU (engine control unit) to adjust how your engine runs. It reprograms parameters like fuel injection timing, air-fuel ratios, and more, optimizing your engine for performance, fuel economy, or both. Depending on the tuner, you can see increases in horsepower and torque, as well as potentially lower emissions and better fuel efficiency.
Now let’s dive into our top five picks that can help you boost fuel economy in your Cummins engine.
1. Edge Products Evolution CS2
The Edge Products Evolution CS2 is a well-rounded tuner, ideal for drivers looking to blend fuel efficiency with performance. It offers multiple power levels, including an economy mode, so you can tweak your engine to match your driving needs. One of its standout features is the built-in display, which gives you real-time engine data, so you can monitor everything from fuel consumption to engine health.
Why Choose the Evolution CS2?
- Customizable power levels for performance or economy modes
- Real-time data monitoring to track fuel use and engine health
- Easy-to-use interface that both beginners and pros will appreciate
- Can read and clear diagnostic codes, helping you troubleshoot minor issues yourself
Whether you’re cruising on the highway or towing, the Evolution CS2 lets you adjust the engine’s performance on the fly. The real-time monitoring is great for tracking how well your economy settings are working, and the ability to clear trouble codes can save you time and money at the shop.
If you’re after a tuner that combines ease of use with powerful performance features, the Bully Dog GT Platinum is a solid choice. It comes with four pre-loaded tunes, including a specific economy tune that optimizes fuel efficiency. Plus, its full-color display can show up to 15 engine parameters simultaneously, giving you a complete picture of your engine’s performance.
Why Choose the GT Platinum?
- Four pre-loaded tunes, including one for economy mode
- Customizable display for monitoring up to 15 parameters
- Internet updatable to keep your tunes fresh and your engine optimized
- Intuitive interface, so you don’t need to be a tech expert to use it
The GT Platinum’s real-time data monitoring and customizable display let you track fuel efficiency, throttle response, and more. The fact that it’s internet updatable means you’ll always have access to the latest software and tuning options. If you’re someone who loves having the most up-to-date tech, this tuner has you covered.
3. SCT X4 Power Flash Programmer
The SCT X4 Power Flash Programmer is an excellent choice if you want a tuner that’s both user-friendly and highly customizable. It comes pre-loaded with dyno-proven tunes, including an economy tune designed to boost fuel efficiency. You can also store up to 10 custom tunes, so you’re not limited to just the pre-loaded settings.
Why Choose the X4?
- Pre-loaded dyno-proven tunes for reliable performance improvements
- Ability to store up to 10 custom tunes, giving you plenty of options
- Wi-Fi enabled for easy updates
- Simple, intuitive interface for users of all experience levels
The X4’s ability to store and switch between custom tunes means you can fine-tune your settings based on your driving needs. It’s also Wi-Fi-enabled, so updating your tuner to the latest software is just a few clicks away. For those looking to get serious about tuning, the SCT X4 offers a lot of flexibility without being overly complicated.
Compact yet powerful, the Superchips Flashpaq F5 is a go-to for drivers looking for a simple and effective tuner with additional features. In addition to its economy mode, it offers adjustments for things like speedometer calibration (helpful if you’ve changed tire sizes) and automatic transmission shift points.
Why Choose the Flashpaq F5?
- Multiple tuning levels, including an economy mode
- Speedometer calibration for tire size changes
- Adjustable shift points for automatic transmissions
- Easy-to-read color screen for quick navigation
The Flashpaq F5 is great if you’ve made other vehicle modifications like changing tires or upgrading your transmission. It helps ensure everything works together smoothly, which is essential for maintaining optimal fuel economy. Plus, the shift point adjustments can help improve efficiency by keeping your engine in its most effective RPM range.
5. DiabloSport inTune i3 Platinum
The DiabloSport inTune i3 Platinum is a high-tech option that offers both pre-loaded and custom tunes for your Cummins engine. It features a sleek, full-color touchscreen interface and allows for real-time data logging, so you can monitor how well your fuel economy adjustments are working.
Why Choose the inTune i3 Platinum?
- Pre-loaded and custom tunes for flexibility
- Real-time data logging to monitor performance on the go
- Internet updatable for the latest features and tunes
- User-friendly touchscreen interface for easy navigation
The inTune i3 Platinum’s real-time data logging lets you keep an eye on engine performance, giving you an edge when it comes to fine-tuning your setup for maximum fuel efficiency. Plus, it’s internet updatable, so you’ll always have the latest optimizations available.
What to Consider When Choosing a Diesel Tuner
When shopping for a diesel tuner, it’s essential to keep a few things in mind to make sure you choose the right one for your needs:
- Compatibility
Make sure the tuner is compatible with your specific Cummins engine model and year. Not all tuners work with every engine, so check the manufacturer’s specs and confirm before purchasing. - Features
Look for tuners that offer economy tunes and real-time data monitoring. These features will help you dial in the perfect balance of performance and fuel efficiency. - Ease of Use
The best tuners are intuitive and easy to navigate. If you’re not tech-savvy, look for a device with clear menus and an easy-to-read display. - Support and Updates
Choose a tuner from a brand with good customer support and regular software updates. This ensures your device stays up-to-date as new features and improvements become available. - Legal Considerations
Make sure your tuner complies with local emissions laws and doesn’t void your vehicle’s warranty. Some tuners offer settings specifically designed to meet emissions requirements.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Diesel Tuner
While a diesel tuner can certainly improve fuel economy, it’s not a magic bullet. Combining it with good driving habits can help you get even better results:
- Maintain a Steady Speed
Smooth driving—without heavy acceleration or braking—can significantly boost fuel efficiency. - Use Cruise Control
On highways, cruise control can help you maintain a steady speed, which is usually more fuel-efficient. - Keep Tires Properly Inflated
Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, lowering fuel economy. Keep them at the recommended pressure to ensure maximum efficiency. - Reduce Extra Weight
The less weight your vehicle carries, the less fuel it needs. Clean out unnecessary heavy items, especially for long trips. - Regular Maintenance
Stick to your truck’s maintenance schedule and replace air filters, oil, and other components as needed.
Conclusion
Diesel tuners can make a noticeable difference in your Cummins engine’s fuel economy, offering more miles per gallon while maintaining the performance you expect. The five tuners we’ve discussed—Edge Evolution CS2, Bully Dog GT Platinum, SCT X4, Superchips Flashpaq F5, and DiabloSport inTune i3 Platinum—each offer unique features designed to optimize your engine for fuel efficiency.
When choosing the right one, think about what features matter most to you, such as ease of use, customization options, and real-time data monitoring. And remember, pairing your tuner with good driving habits can amplify the benefits.
By choosing the right diesel tuner and using it wisely, you’ll enjoy better fuel economy and a smoother driving experience—whether you’re cruising the highway or hauling a load.