2023 RAM 1500 charging

GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL107
NOTE:
The charging system is independent from load reduc -
tion. The charging system performs a diagnostic on the
charging system continuously.
 If the Battery Charge Warning Light is on it may indicate
a problem with the charging system
Úpage 108.
The electrical loads that may be switched off (if equipped),
and vehicle functions which can be affected by load
reduction:
 Heated Seats / Vented Seats / Heated Wheel
 Rear Defroster And Heated Mirrors
 HVAC System
 115 Volts AC Power Inverter System
 Audio and Telematics System
Loss of the battery charge may indicate one or more of the
following conditions:
 The charging system cannot deliver enough electrical
power to the vehicle system because the electrical
loads are larger than the capability of charging system.
The charging system is still functioning properly.
 Turning on all possible vehicle electrical loads
(e.g. HVAC to max settings, exterior and interior lights,
overloaded power outlets +12 Volts, 115 Volts AC, USB
ports) during certain driving conditions (city driving,
towing, frequent stopping). 
Installing options like additional lights, upfitter
electrical accessories, audio systems, alarms and
similar devices.
 Unusual driving cycles (short trips separated by long
parking periods).
 The vehicle was parked for an extended period of time
(weeks, months).
 The battery was recently replaced and was not charged
completely.
 The battery was discharged by an electrical load left on
when the vehicle was parked.
 The battery was used for an extended period with the
engine not running to supply radio, lights, chargers,
+12 Volt portable appliances like vacuum cleaners,
game consoles and similar devices.
What to do when an electrical load reduction action
message is present (“Battery Saver On” or “Battery Saver
Mode”)
During a trip:
 Reduce power to unnecessary loads if possible:
 Turn off redundant lights (interior or exterior).
 Check what may be plugged in to power outlets
+12 Volts, 115 Volts AC, USB ports.
 Check HVAC settings (blower, temperature).
 Check the audio settings (volume). After a trip:

Check if any aftermarket equipment was installed
(additional lights, upfitter electrical accessories, audio
systems, alarms) and review specifications if any
(load and Ignition Off Draw currents).
 Evaluate the latest driving cycles (distance, driving
time and parking time).
 The vehicle should have service performed if the
message is still present during consecutive trips and
the evaluation of the vehicle and driving pattern did not
help to identify the cause.
WARNING LIGHTS AND MESSAGES
The warning/indicator lights will illuminate in the
instrument panel together with a dedicated message
and/or acoustic signal when applicable. These indications
are indicative and precautionary and as such must not be
considered as exhaustive and/or alternative to the
information contained in the Owner’s Manual, which you
are advised to read carefully in all cases. Always refer to
the information in this chapter in the event of a failure
indication. All active telltales will display first if applicable.
The system check menu may appear different based upon
equipment options and current vehicle status. Some
telltales are optional and may not appear.
3

23_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 107

108GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL
RED WARNING LIGHTS
Air Bag Warning Light
This warning light will illuminate to indicate a
fault with the air bag, and will turn on for four to
eight seconds as a bulb check when the
ignition is placed in the ON/RUN or ACC/ON/
RUN position. This light will illuminate with a single chime
when a fault with the air bag has been detected, it will stay
on until the fault is cleared. If the light is either not on
during startup, stays on, or turns on while driving, have the
system inspected at an authorized dealer as soon as
possible.
Brake Warning Light
This warning light monitors various brake
functions, including brake fluid level and
parking brake application. If the brake light
turns on it may indicate that the parking brake
is applied, that the brake fluid level is low, or that there is
a problem with the Anti-Lock Brake System reservoir.
If the light remains on when the parking brake has been
disengaged, and the fluid level is at the full mark on the
master cylinder reservoir, it indicates a possible brake
hydraulic system malfunction or that a problem with the
Brake Booster has been detected by the Anti-Lock Brake
System (ABS) / Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system.
In this case, the light will remain on until the condition has
been corrected. If the problem is related to the brake
booster, the ABS pump will run when applying the brake,
and a brake pedal pulsation may be felt during each stop. The dual brake system provides a reserve braking capacity
in the event of a failure to a portion of the hydraulic
system. A leak in either half of the dual brake system is
indicated by the Brake Warning Light, which will turn on
when the brake fluid level in the master cylinder has
dropped below a specified level.
The light will remain on until the cause is corrected.
NOTE:The light may flash momentarily during sharp cornering
maneuvers, which change fluid level conditions. The
vehicle should have service performed, and the brake
fluid level checked.
If brake failure is indicated, immediate repair is necessary.
Vehicles equipped with the Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS)
are also equipped with Electronic Brake Force Distribution
(EBD). In the event of an EBD failure, the Brake Warning
Light will turn on along with the ABS Light. Immediate
repair to the ABS system is required.
Operation of the Brake Warning Light can be checked by
turning the ignition switch from the OFF position to the
ON/RUN position. The light should illuminate for
approximately two seconds.
The light should then turn off unless the parking brake is
applied or a brake fault is detected. If the light does not
illuminate, have the light inspected by an authorized
dealer.
The light also will turn on when the parking brake is
applied with the ignition switch in the ON/RUN position.
NOTE:This light shows only that the parking brake is applied.
It does not show the degree of brake application.
Battery Charge Warning Light
This warning light will illuminate when the
battery is not charging properly. If it stays on
while the engine is running, there may be a
malfunction with the charging system. Contact
an authorized dealer as soon as possible.
This indicates a possible problem with the electrical
system or a related component.
Door Open Warning Light
This indicator will illuminate when a door is
ajar/open and not fully closed.
NOTE:If the vehicle is moving there will also be a single chime.
WARNING!
Driving a vehicle with the red brake light on is
dangerous. Part of the brake system may have failed. It
will take longer to stop the vehicle. You could have a
collision. Have the vehicle checked immediately.

23_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 108

142STARTING AND OPERATING
To Activate The Autostop Mode, The Following Must Occur:

1. The system must be in STOP/START READY state. A
STOP/START READY message is displayed in the
instrument cluster within the Stop/Start section

Ú
page 98.

2. The vehicle must be decelerating and likely coming to a complete stop.
3. The transmission gear selector must be in DRIVE and the brake pedal pressed.
The engine will shut down, the tachometer will move to the
zero position and the Stop/Start telltale will illuminate
indicating you are in an Autostop. While in an Autostop,
the Climate Controls system may automatically adjust
airflow to maintain cabin comfort. Customer settings will
be maintained upon return to an engine running condition.
POSSIBLE REASONS THE ENGINE DOES
N
OT AUTOSTOP
Prior to engine shut down, the system will check many
safety and comfort conditions to see if they are fulfilled.
In following situations, the engine will not Autostop:
 Driver’s seat belt is not buckled
 Driver’s door is not closed
 The vehicle is on a steep grade
 Cabin heating or cooling is in process and an accept -
able cabin temperature has not been achieved 
HVAC is set to full defrost mode at a high blower speed
 Engine has not reached normal operating temperature
 Engine or exhaust temperature is too high
 The battery is charging
 The transmission is not in DRIVE
 Hood is open
 Transfer case is in 4WD LOW
 TOW/HAUL mode is selected
 Accelerator pedal input
 Excessive 12 Volt loads
 Brake application is adequate to obtain and maintain
a stop
It may be possible to operate the vehicle several
consecutive times in extreme conditions and not meet all
criteria to enable an Autostop state.TO START THE ENGINE WHILE IN
A
UTOSTOP MODE
While in DRIVE, the engine will start when the brake pedal
is released or the accelerator pedal is pressed and the
transmission will automatically reengage upon engine
restart. Conditions That Will Cause The Engine To Start
Automatically While In Autostop Mode
The engine will start automatically when:

The transmission selector is moved from DRIVE to
REVERSE, NEUTRAL, or PARK
 To maintain cabin temperature near the HVAC settings
 HVAC is set to full defrost mode
 12 Volt demand requires engine restart
 Stop/Start OFF switch is pushed
 Transfer case is in 4WD LOW
 The emissions system override is present
 A Stop/Start system error is present
Conditions That Force An Automatic Shift To Park While In
Autostop Mode
The engine will not start automatically and the
transmission will be placed in PARK if:
 The driver door is open and brake pedal released
 The driver door is open and the driver seat belt is
unbuckled
 The engine hood has been opened
 A Stop/Start system error is present
The engine may then be restarted by moving the
transmission shift selector out of PARK (e.g., to DRIVE) or,
in some cases, only by a key start. The instrument cluster
will display a “SHIFT OUT OF PARK” message, or a
“STOP/START KEY START REQUIRED” message, to
indicate which action is required
Úpage 98.

23_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 142

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY325
JUMP STARTING
If your vehicle has a discharged battery, it can be jump
started using a set of jumper cables and a battery in
another vehicle, or by using a portable battery booster
pack. Jump starting can be dangerous if done improperly,
so please follow the procedures in this section carefully.
NOTE:When using a portable battery booster pack, follow the
manufacturer's operating instructions and precautions.
PREPARATIONS FOR JUMP START
The battery in your vehicle is located in the front of the
engine compartment, behind the left headlight assembly.

Positive (+) Battery Post Location

NOTE:
The positive battery post may be covered with a protective
cap. Lift up on the cap to gain access to the positive
battery post. Do not jump off fuses. Only jump directly off
positive post which has a positive (+) symbol on or around
the post.
See the following steps to prepare for jump starting:

1. Shift the automatic transmission into PARK, apply the parking brake and turn the ignition OFF.

2. Turn off the heater, radio, and all electrical accessories.
3. If using another vehicle to jump start the battery, park the vehicle within the jumper cables’ reach, apply the
parking brake and make sure the ignition is OFF. 4. Pull upward and remove the protective cover over the
positive (+) battery post.
JUMP STARTING PROCEDURE
WARNING!
Do not attempt jump starting if the battery is frozen. It
could rupture or explode and cause personal injury.
CAUTION!
Do not use a portable battery booster pack or any other
booster source with a system voltage greater than
12 Volts or damage to the battery, starter motor,
alternator or electrical system may occur.
WARNING!
Do not allow vehicles to touch each other as this could
establish a ground connection and personal injury
could result.
WARNING!
 Take care to avoid the radiator cooling fan whenever
the hood is raised. It can start anytime the ignition
switch is ON. You can be injured by moving fan
blades.
 Remove any metal jewelry such as rings, watch
bands and bracelets that could make an inadvertent
electrical contact. You could be seriously injured.
 Batteries contain sulfuric acid that can burn your
skin or eyes and generate hydrogen gas which is
flammable and explosive. Keep open flames or
sparks away from the battery.
WARNING!
Failure to follow this jump starting procedure could
result in personal injury or property damage due to
battery explosion.
CAUTION!
Failure to follow these procedures could result in
damage to the charging system of the booster vehicle
or the discharged vehicle.
7

23_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 325

326IN CASE OF EMERGENCY
Connecting The Jumper Cables

1. Connect the positive
(+) end of the jumper cable to
the positive (+)
post of the discharged vehicle.

NOTE:Do not jump off fuses. Only jump directly off positive post.
2. Connect the opposite end of the positive (+) jumper
cable to the positive (+) post of the booster battery.
3. Connect the negative (-) end of the jumper cable to
the negative (-) post of the booster battery.
4. Connect the opposite end of the negative (-) jumper
cable to a good engine ground. A “ground” is an
exposed metallic/unpainted part of the engine, frame
or chassis, such as an accessory bracket or large bolt.
The ground must be away from the battery and the
fuel injection system.

Jump Starting Label

5. Start the engine in the vehicle that has the booster battery, let the engine idle a few minutes, and then
start the engine in the vehicle with the discharged
battery.
6. Once the engine is started, follow the disconnection procedure.
Disconnecting The Jumper Cables

1. Disconnect the negative
(-)
end of the jumper cable
from the engine ground of the vehicle with the
discharged battery.

2. Disconnect the opposite end of the negative (-)
jumper cable from the negative (-) post of the booster
battery. 3. Disconnect the positive
(+) end of the jumper cable
from the positive (+) post of the booster battery.
4. Disconnect the opposite end of the positive (+)
jumper cable from the positive (+) post of the vehicle
with the discharged battery, and reinstall the
protective cap.
If frequent jump starting is required to start your vehicle
you should have the battery and charging system
inspected at an authorized dealer.
REFUELING IN EMERGENCY
The vehicle is equipped with a refueling funnel for a
Cap-Less Fuel System. The refueling funnel is located
under the passenger’s seat along with the jack and tools.
If refueling is necessary, while using an approved gas can,
insert the refueling funnel into the filler neck opening.
Take care to open both flappers with the funnel to avoid
spills.
WARNING!
Do not connect the jumper cable to the negative (-) post
of the discharged battery. The resulting electrical spark
could cause the battery to explode and could result in
personal injury.
CAUTION!
Do not connect jumper cable to any of the fuses on the
positive battery terminal. The resulting electrical
current will blow the fuse.
CAUTION!
Accessories plugged into the vehicle power outlets draw
power from the vehicle’s battery, even when not in use
(i.e., cellular devices, etc.). Eventually, if plugged in long
enough without engine operation, the vehicle’s battery
will discharge sufficiently to degrade battery life and/or
prevent the engine from starting.

23_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 326

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE363
F41 A&B –15 Amp BlueLumbar Support & Pass SW / Steering Column Control Module / HVAC
Control Module / ICS Switch Bank / Upper Switch Bank
F42 A&B –10 Amp RedMod Transfer Case Switch Module (TCSM) / SBW / Electric Park Brake
SW / Module TPM Trailer / Module Gateway Can-C Trailer TPM / Seat
LT & RT Vent
F43 A&B –10 Amp RedPort Diagnostics / Front & Rear USB
F44 –20 Amp Yellow Radio / DCSD / Telematics Box Mod / Trailer Gateway Module (360)
F45 30 Amp Pink –Mod Door MUX Driver
F46 30 Amp Pink –Mod Door MUX Passenger
F47 ––Spare
F48A –10 Amp RedRear View Mirror / SW Window Passenger / Rear USB / Wireless
Charging Pad Mod
F49 –15 Amp BlueMod CVPM / SNSR Blind Spot / HDLP Adaptive Front Lighting Sensor
(AFLS)
F50A –10 Amp RedBattery PACK Control Mod (BPCM) *
F51 A&B ––Spare
F52 20 Amp Blue –Direct Battery Feed *
F53 –10 Amp RedTrailer Reverse Steering Control / Trailer Steering Control Knob
F54 A&B –20 Amp YellowPower Outlet Center Seat Battery Feed Position
Power Outlet Center Seat Ignition Feed Position
F55 25 Amp White –Upfitter *
F56 30 Amp Pink –Mod Network Interface *
F57 20 Amp Blue –Direct Battery Feed *
Cavity Cartridge Fuse Micro Fuse Description
* If Equipped
8

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403
INDEX
AAccessory Drive Belt Inspection .................................. 346
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
(Cruise Control) ................................................... 143
, 145
Adding Engine Coolant (Antifreeze) ............................ 350
Adding Fuel................................................................... 171
Additives, Fuel .............................................................. 393
Adjust Down...........................................................................32
Forward ...................................................................... 32
Rearward ....................................................................32
Up................................................................................ 32
Adjustable Pedals ...........................................................38
Advance Phone Connectivity ....................................... 235
Air Bag Air Bag Operation.................................................... 290
Air Bag Warning Light .................................... 288
, 291
Enhanced Accident Response ...................... 297, 332
Event Data Recorder (EDR).................................... 332 Front Air Bag ........................................................... 291
If Deployment Occurs ............................................. 297
Knee Impact Bolsters ............................................. 294
Maintaining Your Air Bag System .......................... 298
Maintenance ........................................................... 298
Redundant Air Bag Warning Light ......................... 289
Transporting Pets.................................................... 311
Air Bag Light ...............................................108
, 288, 311
Air Cleaner, Engine (Engine Air Cleaner Filter) ........... 342
Air Conditioner Maintenance ...................................... 344
Air Conditioner Refrigerant .......................................... 344
Air Conditioner System ................................................ 344 Air Conditioning........................................................ 54
, 56
Air Conditioning Filter ............................................59, 344
Air Conditioning System ................................................. 59
Air Conditioning, Operating Tips .................................... 59
Air Filter ............................................................... 342
, 344
Air Pressure Tires.......................................................................... 377
Air Suspension .................................................... 134
, 137
Alarm Panic........................................................................... 17
Security Alarm...................................................23
, 110
Alterations/Modifications Vehicle........................................................................ 11
Antifreeze (Engine Coolant) ............................... 350
, 395
Disposal ...................................................................351
Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) ..................................... 262
Anti-Lock Warning Light................................................ 110
Assist, Hill Start ............................................................. 266
Audio Settings ............................................................... 224
Audio Systems (Radio) ................................................. 191
Auto Down Power Windows............................................ 70
Automatic Door Locks .................................................... 27 Automatic Headlights ..................................................... 48Automatic High Beams ................................................... 47
Automatic Tailgate Release ........................................... 75
Automatic Temperature Control (ATC) .......................... 59
Automatic Transmission ..................................... 125
, 353
Adding Fluid ............................................................. 353
Fluid And Filter Change ...........................................353
Fluid Change ............................................................353 Fluid Level Check ....................................................353 Fluid Type .......................................................353
, 397
Special Additives ..................................................... 353
Automatic Transmission Limp Home Mode ............... 128
AutoPark ....................................................................... 119
AUX Camera .................................................................. 168
Auxiliary Driving Systems ............................................. 269
Axle Fluid.............................................................. 353
, 397
Axle Locker System ...................................................... 140
Axle Lubrication ............................................................ 353
BBack-Up Camera........................................................... 163
Battery..................................................................108, 340
Charging System Light ............................................ 108
Keyless Key Fob Replacement................................. 17
Battery Saver Feature .................................................... 50
Bed Divider ..................................................................... 84 Bed Extender .................................................................. 84
Bed Step ......................................................................... 78
Bedliner......................................................................... 389
Belts, Seat..................................................................... 311
Blind Spot Monitoring .................................................. 269
Bluetooth Connecting To A Particular Mobile Phone Or Audio Device After Pairing ................................. 231
Body Builders Guide..........................................................9
Body Mechanism Lubrication ...................................... 347
Bodywork ...................................................................... 388
B-Pillar Location ........................................................... 374
Brake Assist System..................................................... 263
Brake Control System .................................................. 263
11

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412
Overview .................................................................. 228
Pair (Link) Uconnect Phone To A Mobile Phone ... 230
Phonebook Download ............................................ 232
Place/Retrieve A Call From Hold ........................... 234Power-Up ................................................................. 236
Recent Calls ............................................................ 233
Redial....................................................................... 234To Remove A Favorite............................................. 232
Toggling Between Calls .......................................... 234Touch-Tone Number Entry...................................... 233
Transfer Call To And From Mobile Phone.............. 235Voice Command ...................................................... 235
Uconnect Settings Customer Programmable Features ................ 25
, 192
Passive Entry Programming ...................................... 25
Uconnect System ......................................................... 215
Uniform Tire Quality Grades ........................................ 386
Universal Garage Door Opener (HomeLink®) —
If Equipped

b
................................................................43
Unleaded Gasoline....................................................... 393
Untwisting Procedure, Seat Belt ................................. 285
USB ..................................................................................65
Utility Rails, Rear Cargo Area .........................................80
UV-C Light ........................................................................69
VVehicle Finder ..................................................... 245, 249
Vehicle Health Alert ...................................................... 247
Vehicle Health Report...................................................246
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) ............................ 392
Vehicle Loading................................................... 172
, 374
Vehicle Maintenance ....................................................341
Vehicle Modifications/Alterations ................................. 11
Vehicle Notifications ..................................................... 247
Vehicle Settings ............................................................191
Vehicle Storage ......................................................59
, 387
Ventilated Seats ............................................................. 34
Voice Command.............................................................. 36
Voice Recognition System (VR) ...................................... 36
WWarranty Information ................................................... 400
Washers, Windshield ................................................... 340
Washing Vehicle ........................................................... 388
Water Driving Through ....................................................... 189
Wheel And Wheel Tire Care ......................................... 383
Wheel And Wheel Tire Trim.......................................... 383
Wi-Fi............................................................................... 245
Wind Buffeting ................................................................ 72
Window Fogging ............................................................. 59
Window Lockout Switch ................................................. 71 Windows.......................................................................... 70 Power ......................................................................... 70
Rear Sliding ............................................................... 71
Reset Auto-Up............................................................ 71
Windshield Defroster ................................................... 311
Windshield Washers ............................................. 52
, 340
Fluid ......................................................................... 340
Windshield Wiper Blades ............................................. 347
Windshield Wipers.......................................................... 52
Wipers Blade Replacement ......................................... 347
Wipers, Rain Sensitive ................................................... 53
Wireless Charging Pad ................................................... 68

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