Where Is the Fuel Filter Located on a 2014 Dodge Ram 1500? A Step-by-Step Guide for Owners and DIYers

If you own a 2014 Dodge Ram 1500, understanding the location of your fuel filter is critical for maintaining your truck’s performance, fuel efficiency, and engine longevity. For this specific model year, the fuel filter is not in the engine bay—instead, it’s mounted underneath the vehicle, near the rear of the frame, close to the fuel tank. This placement is common in many modern trucks to protect the filter from debris and simplify access for replacement. Below, we’ll break down exactly where to find it, why its location matters, and how to work with it safely.

Why Knowing the Fuel Filter Location Matters

Before diving into the exact spot, let’s clarify why this information is useful. The fuel filter’s job is to trap contaminants like dirt, rust, and sediment from the fuel before they reach the engine. Over time, these particles clog the filter, reducing fuel flow and causing issues like rough idling, poor acceleration, or even engine stalling. For a heavy-duty truck like the 2014 Ram 1500—whether it’s a regular cab, quad cab, or crew cab with a V6 or V8 engine—clean fuel delivery is especially important for towing, hauling, or daily driving under load.

Locating the filter in advance saves time and hassle if you need to replace it yourself or communicate with a mechanic. It also helps you inspect the area for leaks or damage, which could indicate a failing filter or related fuel system issues.

Exact Location of the 2014 Dodge Ram 1500 Fuel Filter

The 2014 Ram 1500 fuel filter is mounted to the frame rail, just behind the rear axle and below the bed of the truck. Here’s a more precise breakdown to help you find it:

  1. Position Relative to the Vehicle: Stand behind the truck and look at the undercarriage. The fuel tank sits between the frame rails, and the filter is attached to the driver’s side frame rail (left side when facing the truck from the rear), roughly 12–18 inches forward of the tank’s rear edge.

  2. Visual Cues: The filter is a small, cylindrical metal canister, usually black or silver, with two fuel lines (inlet and outlet) connected to it. It’s held in place by a bracket or clamp, often with a rubber grommet insulating it from the frame to reduce vibration.

  3. Access Tips: To see it clearly, you may need to jack up the rear of the truck and secure it on jack stands, or use a creeper to lie beneath the vehicle. Remove any skid plates or protective covers if your truck has them—some Ram 1500s have a plastic underguard that could obscure the filter.

How to Confirm You’ve Found the Right Component

If you’re unsure, cross-reference with these details:

  • Fuel Lines: The filter connects to two flexible fuel hoses (or metal lines, depending on trim). One line brings fuel from the tank (inlet), and the other sends filtered fuel to the engine (outlet).

  • Pressure Relief Valve: Some filters have a small, spring-loaded valve on top; this is a safety feature to release fuel pressure if the filter clogs excessively.

  • OEM Part Numbers: If you have a factory service manual or access to online parts databases, the OEM part number for the 2014 Ram 1500 fuel filter is typically 68197689AB (though this may vary slightly by engine or trim). Matching this number to the part on your truck confirms it’s the correct filter.

Why the Filter Is Mounted Underneath

Chrysler (Dodge’s parent company) designed the 2014 Ram 1500 with the fuel filter under the truck for two main reasons:

  • Protection: The undercarriage shields the filter from road debris, water, and extreme temperatures, extending its lifespan compared to an engine-bay mount.

  • Serviceability: While it requires lifting the truck, this location keeps the filter away from the engine’s heat and electrical components, reducing fire risk and simplifying replacement.

Working with the Fuel Filter: Safety First

Before attempting to inspect or replace the fuel filter, prioritize safety. The fuel system in your Ram 1500 operates under pressure (typically 40–60 PSI for gas engines, higher for diesel variants if equipped), so sudden fuel release could cause injury or fire. Here’s how to proceed:

  1. Relieve Fuel Pressure: Disconnect the negative battery cable to prevent accidental sparks. Then, locate the fuel pump relay (in the power distribution center under the hood) and remove it. Start the engine and let it run until it stalls—this drains residual pressure from the lines.

  2. Disconnect Lines Carefully: Use a line wrench (not a standard wrench) to avoid stripping the soft metal fittings. Have a rag or container ready to catch any spilled fuel.

  3. Replace the Filter: Install the new filter with the arrow pointing toward the engine (indicating fuel flow direction). Tighten the fittings by hand first, then snug them with the wrench—over-tightening can crack the plastic or damage the metal threads.

When to Replace the Fuel Filter

Dodge recommends replacing the 2014 Ram 1500 fuel filter every 30,000–60,000 miles, depending on driving conditions. If you frequently tow, drive on unpaved roads, or use low-quality fuel, aim for the lower end of that range. Signs that the filter needs replacement include:

  • Hesitation or sputtering under acceleration

  • Difficulty starting the engine

  • Reduced fuel economy

  • Visible dirt or debris in the fuel when the line is disconnected

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Ignoring Safety Steps: Skipping fuel pressure relief can lead to fuel spraying when disconnecting lines. Always follow proper depressurization procedures.

  • Overlooking Contaminated Fuel: If your truck has been running poorly after a filter change, the new filter might be clogged due to dirty fuel. Consider adding a fuel system cleaner or having the tank inspected.

  • Using the Wrong Filter: Aftermarket filters may not meet OEM specifications. Stick to parts from reputable brands like Mopar, Bosch, or Fram to ensure proper fit and filtration.

Final Thoughts

For 2014 Dodge Ram 1500 owners, the fuel filter is a simple but vital component located under the truck, near the rear frame rail. Knowing its position empowers you to perform routine inspections, catch potential issues early, and tackle replacements confidently. By prioritizing safety and following maintenance guidelines, you’ll keep your Ram 1500 running smoothly for years—whether you’re hauling a trailer, cruising down the highway, or navigating city streets.

If you’re ever unsure about locating or replacing the filter, consult your owner’s manual or reach out to a certified mechanic. But with the details here, you should have all the info needed to take charge of your truck’s fuel system health.

Back to blog