Finally getting around to figuring out all the buttons on the new to me 2016 Ram 2500 diesel.

Found the exhaust brake button (I thought it was an option my truck didn't have)

Tested it out and it seems to work great although my wife doesn't like the way it works/feels/sounds.

So in doing some research it appears many diesel owners use the exhaust brake all the time, towing or not.

The claim is it keeps the turbo cleaned out and keeps brake wear down.

So for the experts how often do you use the exhaust brake? Auto or full on? Tow/haul mode engaged or not?

Thanks.

On my trucks with the brake, I left it on all time except in slippery conditions.

I have a friend who has 3 later model Cummins powered trucks and he swears leaving the exhaust brake on all the time helps keep them cleaned out

I don't know for sure but I imagine the parts involved in the exhaust brake are being exercised anyways as part of the variable vane function fo the turbo. I don't think they are blade that shuts off the exhaust like the older aftermarket units did. But like anything else lack of use is hard on stuff so its a good idea to use it on occasion either way I imagine.

I have a 2016 Duramax 3500 as a company pickup and I use the exhaust brake on it semi regularly just to use it. It is pretty livable driving empty with it on, its not near as aggressive as the 2016 Ram I test drove.

I tell everyone thaat runs a 2007 -up Cummins to "use it or lose it". Even if you are not towing just exercise the exhaust brake frequently. It helps to keep the soot build up from getting it sticky or flat out stuck. Once it doesn't work anymore you'll have to go into the dealer and have them clean it out (I'm sure costing $100s). Besides it sounds cool to use and helps on the brakes lasting longer anyway!

I have a 2010 that started throwing codes (I think it was a P0046 TURBOCHARGER BOOST CONTROL CIRCUIT PERFORMANCE). I read on the web that using the engine brake exercises the vane actuator ring and helps keep the ring freed up. I started using the engine brake and the code cleared and hasn't come back. Since then I try to use the brake as much as I can on hills.

USE IT ALL THE TIME! 07-12 were meant to be deleted.... terrible soot issues.

My 2011 only seems to work when I use it along with the tow haul button. Is this normal?

I picked up a brake a couple years back, bad turbo with the brake attached. I have a 2006 and been looking to see if the wiring is there or was this a later year option? Sure would like to use it. My truck has the ‘spacer’ pipe between turbo and the lower exhaust pipe held on with screw clamps, looks like it would fit right in. Any help on this?