FAULTBASE
Error CodesASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/Ram/1500/DT (2019-Present)/my Ram 1500 DT (2019-Present) battery dies after a few days, what could be wrong

my Ram 1500 DT (2019-Present) battery dies after a few days, what could be wrong

Ram 1500 DT (2019-Present)

Error Codes
Severity: highDifficulty: medium1-3 hours
3 min read
533 words

⚠️ Safety Warning

This issue requires immediate attention. If you are not experienced with automotive repairs, consult a professional mechanic. Working on critical systems can be dangerous.

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix battery discharge issues in Ram 1500 DT (2019-Present). Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and solutions.

Component
Electrical
Repair Time
1-3 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Disconnect the negative battery terminal before working on electrical systems.

Symptoms

  • •Battery warning light illuminated on the dashboard
  • •Engine cranks slowly or fails to start after sitting for a few days
  • •Electrical components malfunctioning intermittently
  • •Vehicle clock and radio presets reset after battery disconnection
  • •Corroded battery terminals or loose connections
  • •Unusual electrical drain when the vehicle is off (e.g., lights or accessories staying on)

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Scan for error codes using an OBD-II scanner to check for electrical system faults.
  2. 2Inspect battery condition by checking for corrosion, loose connections, and ensuring the battery is securely mounted.
  3. 3Measure battery voltage with a multimeter; a healthy battery should read around 12.6 volts when fully charged.
  4. 4Perform a parasitic draw test by connecting an ammeter in series with the negative terminal to measure current draw when the vehicle is off.
  5. 5Check fuses related to electronic components to identify any circuits that may be drawing excess current.
  6. 6Inspect for aftermarket accessories that may be improperly installed and drawing power when the vehicle is off.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Tools Required: OBD-II scanner, multimeter, ammeter, basic hand tools (wrenches, pliers).
  • Safety Warnings: Disconnect the negative battery terminal before working on electrical systems.

2. Battery Inspection

  • Sub-steps:
    1. Disconnect the negative battery terminal.
    2. Clean the terminals and cable ends with a wire brush to remove corrosion.
    3. Check the battery date code; if it's over 3-5 years old, consider replacing it.
    4. Reconnect the battery terminals securely.

3. Parasitic Draw Testing

  • Sub-steps:
    1. Disconnect the negative battery terminal.
    2. Connect the ammeter between the negative terminal and the battery cable.
    3. Wait for the vehicle to enter sleep mode (approximately 15-30 minutes).
    4. Record the current draw; it should be below 50 milliamps for normal operation.
    5. If the draw is excessive, remove fuses one at a time to isolate the circuit causing the draw.

4. Addressing Faulty Components

  • Sub-steps:
    1. Once the circuit with the excessive draw is identified, inspect components and wiring for faults.
    2. Repair or replace any faulty components (e.g., switches, modules) that may cause abnormal power draw.
    3. Reinstall fuses and reconnect the battery.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

  • Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
  • Check for any error codes or warning lights
  • Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

  • •Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
  • •Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
  • •Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
  • •Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

  • OBD-II scanner
  • Multimeter
  • Ammeter
  • Basic hand tools (wrenches, pliers)

Parts Required

  • New battery (if old or faulty)
  • Replacement fuses or components (if identified as faulty)

Additional Information

Component

Electrical

Repair Time

1-3 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

high

Tools

4 items

Parts

2 items

Related Faults

  1. why does my Ram 1500 DT (2019-Present) have a persistent oil leak

    Learn how to diagnose and fix a persistent oil leak in your 2019-Present Ram 1500 DT. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

    Engine6 symptoms

  2. why is my Ram 1500 DT (2019-Present) making a popping noise in the front end?

    Learn how to diagnose and fix popping noise in the front end of your Ram 1500 DT. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

    Suspension5 symptoms

  3. my Ram 1500 DT (2019-Present) is pulling to one side, what could be wrong

    Learn how to diagnose and fix pulling issues in Ram 1500 DT. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

    Suspension5 symptoms

  4. why does my Ram 1500 DT (2019-Present) lose coolant without any visible leaks?

    Discover how to diagnose and fix coolant loss issues in the 2019-Present Ram 1500 DT. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostics, and repair instructions.

    Cooling System5 symptoms

  5. how to fix P0420 code in my Ram 1500 DT (2019-Present)

    Learn how to diagnose and fix P0420 catalytic converter issue in Ram 1500 DT. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

    P0420Exhaust System5 symptoms

  6. why does my Ram 1500 DT (2019-Present) exhaust smell like gasoline

    Learn how to diagnose and fix gasoline smell from exhaust in 2019 Ram 1500 DT. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

    Fuel System6 symptoms

Share this solution

Comments

Sign in to share your thoughts

Sign In

No comments yet

Be the first to share your thoughts

Back to Generation