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Summertime has arrived, ushering in the anticipation of long days spent on the lake. If you’re a South Carolina boat owner, you know that our state offers some of the most scenic and boater-friendly waterways in the Southeast. Whether you’re ready for a saltwater adventure in the Charleston harbor or are planning a freshwater escape to Lake Moultrie or Lake Marion, you need a truck that can get your boat there and back safely and confidently. That’s why we recommend the new 2026 RAM 1500 as a top choice for boat owners in South Carolina. This well-equipped, full-size pickup truck boasts the power and capability needed to tow a boat to and from the water, while offering a more stress-free, simplified, and seamless towing experience, thanks to a variety of advanced technology features. If you’re looking for new trucks for sale near Charleston that can handle towing a boat like a pro, discover the 2026 Ram 1500 towing capacities and technology today! more Power You Can Depend On Offering an impressive selection of engines, the 2026 Ram 1500 lineup lets you choose the power you need to successfully conquer your next towing task. Let’s take a closer look at each of the four robust engines below. HEMI® V8 Engine Horsepower: 395 Torque: 410 Towing Capacity: 11,320 pounds 1 High-Output 3.0L Hurricane Engine Horsepower: 540 Torque: 521 pound-feet Payload Capacity: 1,490 1 Towing Capacity: 10,000 pounds 1 3.0L Hurricane Engine Horsepower: 420 Torque: 469 pound-feet Payload Capacity: 1,930 pounds 1 Towing Capacity: 11,610 pounds 1 3.6L Pentastar® V6 Engine with eTorque Horsepower: 305 Torque: 269 pound-feet of torque Payload Capacity: 2,360 pounds 1 Towing Capacity: 8,130 pounds 1 Whether your boat only needs the 8,130-pound towing capacity of the 3.6-liter Pentastar® V6 engine with eTorque or requires the maximum 11,610-pound towing capacity of the 3.0-liter Hurricane engine, each RAM 1500 engine is ready to provide the power to pull your boat to your next destination. Smart Technology That Simplifies Towing Towing a boat to the lake or ocean is no small undertaking. But thanks to the advanced towing technology that the 2026 Ram 1500 offers, towing doesn’t have to feel daunting. From the Integrated Trailer Health Monitor to the available telescopic trailer tow mirrors, boat owners will appreciate the range of helpful Ram 1500 features that can ease the stress of towing. Standout towing technology features in the 2026 Ram 1500 include: Integrated Trailer Health Monitor Wondering how your trailer is doing? This feature helps you stay in the know, providing information regarding trailer updates and trailering performance while you tow. Trailer Reverse Guidance with Dynamic Gridlines Backing up with a trailer is no small feat, but this feature is designed to help guide you while you do so, showing you your trailer's predicted trajectory with dynamic gridlines. Digital Rearview Mirror with Tow Mode This available feature provides a clear view of what’s behind you with a live video stream from a trailer-mounted rear-facing camera. Trailer Auto Hitch Assist You’ll be glad to have this feature when it’s time to connect a trailer to your truck. With Trailer Auto Hitch Assist, the truck will steer itself to line up to the trailer tongue while you brake and press the gas pedal as needed. Telescopic Trailer Tow Mirrors These available mirrors further enhance the towing experience, providing an excellent view while you drive, thanks to available forward and reverse spotter functionality and the available mirror-mounted camera system. Trailer Brake-Controller This available feature allows the trailer to brake at the same time as the truck brakes. Trailer Tire Pressure Monitoring System This helpful available feature alerts you to low or high tire pressure in one of your trailer’s tires. In addition to all of these helpful towing features, the 2026 Ram 1500 also boasts more than 100 standard and available safety and security features, 2 adding to your peace of mind. Shop for a New or Used Truck at Your Ram Dealer Near Charleston! Ready to find a truck that can handle all of your towing needs this summer? Let the 2026 Ram 1500 take it from here with its powerful engine options and advanced towing, safety, and driver-assistance technology. As a Ram dealer near Charleston, our Ram truck experts are here to help you upgrade to the Ram 1500 that meets your towing needs. Browse our available inventory on our website, then stop by Santee Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram to explore our lineup in person and compare the different Ram 1500 trim levels we have in stock. We may even have quality, budget-friendly used Ram trucks in stock for Charleston drivers to discover. If you have any questions about the trucks we have available, please let us know. We’re conveniently located in Manning, so plan your trip to our dealership today! Disclaimers: 1 When properly equipped. Additional options, equipment, passengers, and cargo weight may affect payload/towing weights. Contact dealer for details. 2 Based on standard and available features offered.

Truck enthusiasts, rejoice! The 2026 Ram 1500 is officially here, and it’s setting a new standard for strength, style, and innovation in the full-size truck world. Built to outperform the competition, the latest Ram 1500 is one of the most advanced pickups Ram has ever produced, with plenty of upgrades inside and out. The 2026 Ram 1500 raises the bar with available hybrid and electric powertrain options, cutting-edge interior tech, and unmatched towing capacity. more At Santee CDJR in Manning, SC, we’re here to showcase the newest generation of Ram trucks. Whether you're shopping for power, luxury, or both, this truck delivers. Muscular Powertrain Options The Ram 1500 offers several powertrains, so whether you're looking for impressive fuel efficiency or aggressive performance, there's a Ram to meet your needs. Hurricane Inline-Six Engines Ram's new twin-turbo 3.0-liter Hurricane inline-six engines deliver a unique blend of power and efficiency: Standard Output (SO): This engine delivers 420 horsepower and 469 lb-ft of torque. High-Output (HO): The high-output engine delivers aggressive performance, producing 540 horsepower and 521 lb-ft of torque. Both Hurricane engines are paired with a reliable eight-speed automatic transmission and cylinder deactivation technology to enhance fuel efficiency. 5.7-Liter HEMI V8 Engine You asked, Ram listened. In response to high demand, Ram has brought back the iconic 5.7-liter HEMI V8 as an available option on upper trim levels. This engine produces 395 horsepower and is known for its distinctive, performance-oriented growl. Electrified Options: Ram 1500 REV and Ramcharger For 2026, Ram is introducing two innovative electrified truck options: Ram 1500 REV: This is a battery-electric model engineered to deliver Ram's signature performance with zero emissions. Ramcharger: This electric model combines electric power with a gas generator for extended range. Both electric models are designed for practicality on the job site, offering ranges of over 350 miles. Exterior and Interior Upgrades The new Ram 1500 has a bold look with new grille designs, which vary by trim level to offer a personalized aesthetic. Advanced LED lighting systems, including available adaptive front-lighting, complement the new grille designs and ensure maximum visibility. An optional multifunction tailgate provides unmatched versatility, offering various opening configurations beyond the traditional drop-down, making loading and unloading easier than ever. You'll also have a range of wheel options, extending up to an impressive 22 inches, available in a variety of new finishes that add an upscale touch. When you step inside the new Ram 1500, you'll see a cabin that blends luxury with cutting-edge technology. Interior features include available suede headliners and real wood trim accents that provide a natural, upscale feel. Set the mood and personalize the vibe with customizable ambient lighting. For ultimate comfort, the Tungsten trim offers 24-way massaging front seats to reduce fatigue on long journeys. The cabin feels even more spacious thanks to the panoramic sunroof, which floods the interior with natural light and offers expansive views. Audiophiles will appreciate the available Klipsch premium audio system, which delivers an immersive music experience. Experience the Power of the Ram 1500 at Santee CDJR With bold design updates, advanced technology, and new powertrain options, the 2026 Ram 1500 proves once again why it’s a leader in the full-size truck market. Whether you're towing heavy loads, navigating off-road terrain, or simply upgrading your daily drive, the Ram 1500 delivers the performance and comfort you need in a pickup truck. Ready to experience it for yourself? Visit Santee Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram in Manning, SC, your trusted Ram dealership near Columbia, to explore our new Ram 1500 for sale, ask about Ram truck specials, and take advantage of current Ram lease deals. From understanding Ram 1500 trim levels to picking the right Ram 1500 towing capacity, our team is here to help you find the perfect fit for work, play, and everything in between!

At Santee Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM, we treat our customers like family. We want you and your entire family to be safe on the road. We know that regular car maintenance is part of vehicle safety, and we believe that teaching young drivers how to take care of their car is vital. Whether you are a new or experienced driver or you’re teaching your teenager how to drive, here are 5 things everyone should know. more 5 Tips to Teach Your Young Driver It’s best to start with the basics! No need to get into technical details since that’s what our Service Center is here for. Here are five basic vehicle maintenance tips your young driver should know: How to Check The Tires. While most modern vehicles will automatically notify you when the tire pressure is low, it’s important to teach your teen driver what the pressure should be and how to fill them when it is needed. This will ensure they get the best gas mileage and that their tires last as long as possible. In addition, teach them to check their tire’s tread for wear and tear. An easy way to check the wear is by putting a penny into the thread groove. If you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, it’s time to think about new tires. And, of course, they should know how to change a flat tire. How to Check Fluids. New drivers should know how to check a vehicle’s oil, coolant, and wiper fluid. Knowing how to check these fluids is simple and will help keep their car running smoothly. In the case of wiper fluid, they can even top it off themselves! How to Identify Worn Brakes. It’s no secret that brakes are a vital part of any vehicle. That’s why it’s important to teach your teen the signs of worn brakes. New sounds–like grinding or screeching–and a longer stop time are telltale signs that your brakes are worn. Let them know that if they notice either of these signs, it’s time to have their brakes inspected. How to Take Care of a Battery. A mechanic can tell you how much life your battery has left, but new drivers should understand how to conserve battery power. Things like leaving your lights on or sitting with just the engine turned on for an extended period will drain your battery life quickly. Teaching your teen how to jump-start a car and purchasing jumper cables to keep in their vehicle will empower them to take care of the problem if they ever encounter a dead battery. How to Spot Warning Signs. Every driver, especially a new one, should be able to identify warning signs that something may be wrong with their vehicle. Things like a shaking steering wheel, overheating, strange noises, and fluid leaks are signals that your vehicle needs immediate attention. It’s also a good idea to teach them the meaning of different warning lights on the dashboard so they can better understand when one pops up. Schedule Your Next Expert Auto Repair in Manning, SC Today! Having a teen driver can be nerve-racking, but when you trust your vehicles to Santee Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM, you’ll be in good hands! We treat your family like our own family, so you can trust that whether you need a simple oil change or a more complex repair, we’ll get it done correctly every time. Make sure your teenager knows that they can trust the mechanics in our Service Center in Manning, SC. Schedule your appointment today and bring your teen along! Don’t forget to check out our new and pre-owned vehicle selection while you’re here!

Ready to drive on the wild side? Beloved by outdoor enthusiasts, the Gladiator offers the best of both worlds. Drivers are no longer forced to choose between the rugged performance of a Jeep and the unbridled power of a pickup – so it’s no wonder the Gladiator was named America's #1 midsize pickup for initial quality! more With an adventurous spirit at its core and plenty of power beneath the hood, the 2024 Jeep Gladiator offers more off-road prowess than ever before. You’ll not only enjoy trail performance akin to the Wrangler, but the same open-air freedom, thanks to removable top and doors. Read on to learn more about the new Jeep Gladiator, then stop by your Santee Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM for a test drive! Nearly Unstoppable Utility and Capabilities Constructed on a durable, high-strength steel frame, the Gladiator features heavy-duty axles, coil front and rear suspensions, and the largest brakes in its class. The result? An adventure-equipped vehicle that’s ready to roam! An all-steel, five-foot cargo bed makes storing all your gear simple – with a three-position tailgate, Trail Rail, tie-down loops, spray-in bedliner, and LED lighting available. Plus, the Gladiator provides best-in-class 4x4 1,710-pound payload and a best-in-class available 7,700-pound gas towing! To optimize off-road capability, the Trail-Rated 2024 Jeep Gladiator also boasts these features, depending on the trim you choose: ParkView Rear Back-Up Camera with 4x trailer hitch zoom Updated 4x4 systems to max out traction, water fording, ground clearance, and more Tru-Lok electronic locking differentials Sway bar disconnect Rock-trac speed transfer case Rock rails Choose between these two power-packed engine options: 3.6L Pentastar V6 Engine 285 horsepower 260 pound-feet of torque Engine stop-start technology 7,700-pound towing capacity 3.0L Ecodiesel V6 Engine 260 horsepower Best-in-class 442 pound-feet of diesel torque Variable geometry turbo technology 6,500-pound towing capacity While eight-speed automatic transmission comes standard, six-speed manual transmission is also available. Impressive Features and Technology Enhance your experience behind the wheel with these advanced tech features: Voice command Wireless connectivity 4G LTE Wi-Fi Hotspot with connection for up to eight devices within a 50-foot radius Uconnect infotainment system 7-inch touchscreen (or available 8.4-inch touchscreen) ParkSense Rear Parking Assist Systems Parkview Rear Back-Up Camera Blind spot monitoring Adaptive cruise control Forward collision warning with active braking Rear cross-path detection Trim Level for Every Explorer Every 2024 Jeep Gladiator in the lineup features a roomy, four-door cab, a five-foot bed, and a capable four-wheel-drive system. Each trim level, though, has some unique features that help it stand out! Sport - starting at $38,775 Willys Sport - starting at $41,795 Sport S - starting at $42,970 Willys - starting at $46,715 Freedom - starting at $47,965 Overland - starting at $47,075 Mojave - starting at $51,490 Rubicon - starting at $51,490 High Altitude - starting at $54,575 Building off the base model, the Sport S goes next-level with all-terrain tires and anti-spin rear differential to boost confidence when you’re tackling new trails. The Gladiator Mojave excels when speeding over sand, while the Gladiator Rubicon model is built for low-speed rock-crawling. Sticking to the streets? The Overland is perfect for the pavement, while the top-tier High Altitude lives up to its name with unmatched performance in the mountains. Find Your Dream Jeep Gladiator at Santee CDJR in Manning, SC! Ready to get behind the wheel and get your next great adventure underway? Check out our huge Jeep selection, including the 2023 Jeep Gladiator, here at your hometown dealership! 2024 Gladiators will be arriving soon, so stay tuned for updates! Looking for a budget-friendly used Jeep instead? We’ve got you covered! Browse our inventory online, then stop by for a test drive! We even have new Jeep deals available to make our already competitive prices even more affordable. Our team offers a car-buying experience like none other, so come see us today!

Ready to explore off the beaten path? There are plenty of trails throughout the Carolinas that promise epic adventure for Jeep enthusiasts!  Whether it’s your first ride on the wild side or you’re a seasoned off-road warrior, there are plenty of trails to check out. Read on to learn more about off-roading in your 4x4 vehicle, then stop by your local Jeep dealership to find the perfect trail-ready new ride! more Where to Take Your 4x4 Jeep in South Carolina These off-road destinations are beloved by locals and visitors alike: Carolina Adventure World in Winnsboro, SC One of the most popular off-road parks in the state, Carolina Adventure World offers miles of trails through some of the region’s most beautiful scenery, including waterfalls, forests, and more. There are also great picnic spots and a campground in the nearby Great Falls. Battery Park Off-Road in Nesmith, SC Looking for a beginner-friendly option? This shorter, 5-mile course takes you through a variety of terrains, ranging from easier clay roads to tougher mud paths. Be sure to check out the campground too! Gulches Off-Road Vehicle Park in Waterloo, SC This park is one of the most well-known off-road parks in South Carolina, renowned for its variety of trails – 45 to choose from, spanning 80 acres. Trails are color coded by difficulty, ranging from easy to ultra-tough. Take some time to unwind post-ride at the cabins or nearby fishing spots. Horse Pasture Road near Rocky Bottom, SC Don’t miss the breathtaking views of both the Jim Timmerman Natural Resources area and Lake Jocassee. Access the trail from various points along the 77-mile long Foothills Hiking Trail. Parsons Mountain OHV Trail near Abbeville, SC This mid-level, 16.6 km loop trail is great for all skill levels, with wooded forest views and fun obstacles to tackle. Oconee State Park in Seneca, SC With multiple moderate Jeep trails to choose from, you’re sure to find one that puts your 4x4 vehicle to the test. Plus, there are some fantastic places for picnics or camping. Visit the Beautiful Mountains of North Carolina North Carolina is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes, from towering mountains to sandy shorelines. While you’re here, don’t miss the chance for some Jeep off-roading! Corolla North Beach on the Northeastern coast of NC Take a leisurely cruise along the beach for some fun in the sun, with 11 miles of trails spanning the coastline. Brown Mountain OHV Trail in the Pisgah National Forest The only designated OHV trail system located in the Pisgah National Forest, this one has two trails open to Jeeps and other 4x4 vehicles. Badin Lake OHV Trail Complex in the Piedmont Region Tackle some of the state’s more challenging trails, with 16 miles to traverse. While trails range in difficulty, the hardest requires steep rocky climbs and muddy patches. Nantahala Ranger District The district covers over 250,000 acres of land across Macon, Jackson, and Swain Counties. It is beloved by nature lovers and Jeep drivers alike for its waterfalls, granite walls, and rivers. Wayehutta OHV Trail System near Cullowhee, NC. Off-Roading Safety Tips It’s crucial to make safety a priority when off-roading. These tips can help: Tip 1: Know your limits. Never attempt trails that are above your skill level. Doing so not only puts you at risk, but others sharing the trail. Tip 2: Bring a friend. Sticking to the buddy system is a wise idea, especially if something goes wrong. For instance, if your Jeep gets stuck in the mud, your partner can pull you out. Tip 3: Inspect your equipment. Before hitting the trail, make sure all your off-road gear is functioning properly. Tip 4: Check your tire pressure. Often referred to as airing down, lowering your tire pressure can help provide better stability and traction while on the trail. Tip 5: Know your Jeep’s capabilities. Familiarize yourself with your Jeep’s capabilities and don’t exceed them. Jeeps are built for adventure, but it’s important not to push your vehicle beyond its limits. Join the Off-Roading Jeep Family! Jeep drivers are as adventurous as their vehicles, eager to explore all the Carolinas have to offer! No matter which off-road park you choose, Santee CDJR is here to help ensure your Jeep is ready to tackle the terrain that lies ahead. Looking for a new or used Jeep? Our lot is stocked with a wide variety of models. Plus, our buying process is quick and easy, so you’ll embark on your next great adventure in no time! Come see us today!

There's nothing quite like the excitement of planning a day trip to experience an adventure to a new destination. With a variety of places to discover near Manning, you can create a day to remember. more Francis Marion University Performing Arts Center Less than an hour's drive away, the Francis Marion University Performing Arts Center will keep you entertained with its season of scheduled entertainment. For the upcoming season, the center has an exciting lineup of entertainment. From the South Carolina Dance Theatre putting on its presentation of the Nutcracker and Swan Lake performed by the National Ballet Theatre of Odessa, Ukraine to jazz, tenors, pianists, and legendary singers, the center offers a memorable day trip enjoying the performances of talented artists. The ticket office is open from noon until to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Santee State Park Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy their time at Santee State Park less than an hour from Manning in Lake Marion. With 2,500 acres filled with beauty, beaches, and boating along with fishing, hiking, and wildlife observation, your day trip will be jam-packed with activities. Extend your day trip into a weekend getaway and bring along your tent, or rent one of the cabins built above the lake. There's a pier, boat launch, and geocaching sites for even more things to do. EdVenture Children's Museum A little over an hour away in Columbia, you won't want to miss taking your children to EdVenture Children's Museum. Touted as the "largest children's museum in the south" and home to the Eddie, the world's largest child. The museum offers 92,000 square feet of fun and 300 exhibits providing hands-on interactive fun for kids 10 years of age and younger. There's fun for all with galleries such as the Great Outdoors, Wags and Whiskers, FLIGHT, Autoworks, My Backyard, and more. The museum also offers a variety of programs for members, field trips, camps, and souvenirs at the EdCetera store. The museum is open Monday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Closed on Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas Day. South Carolina State Museum Walk the walk of past residents when touring the South Carolina State Museum and seeing up-close many artifacts from the past. The museum is a blend of Columbia's culture and history with art and science to show the then and now of the vibrant city. Take time to check out the 4-D theater, which offers a unique experience. While watching the visual program, you'll be subjected to real environmental experiences such as vibrating seats, a quick blast of air, or a gentle spray of water to complement the exhibit and enhance the experience. When you need to refuel, the Crescent Cafe offers a tasty menu of delectable food and refreshing drinks. The museum is open Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday 10 a.m.to 6 p.m., and Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Whichever road you choose to follow for your day trip adventure, with the many places to travel to, you're sure to enjoy the journey from start to finish. image via pixabay