RAM Ram 3500 2010-2018 Electrical Specifications
RAM Ram 3500 2010-2018

RAM Ram 3500 2010-2018 Electrical Specifications

Explore the electrical specifications for the 2010-2018 Ram 3500, including battery, alternator, starter motor, wiring, and fuses. Ideal for maintenance, repairs, and upgrades.

Updated

Overview Specifications

This document provides detailed electrical specifications for the 2010-2018 RAM 3500. It is designed to assist technicians, enthusiasts, and owners in understanding the vehicle's electrical systems, including battery, alternator, wiring, and lighting. Use this guide to troubleshoot, maintain, or upgrade your vehicle's electrical components. Each section is organized for easy navigation, with subsections breaking down specific systems and their technical details.

How to Use

Use the search function to locate specific terms or components within the document. Enter keywords such as 'alternator' or 'battery' to jump directly to relevant sections.

Navigate through the document using the section titles and subsections. Each major section is divided into detailed subsections for quick access to specific electrical system information.

Key Specifications

Battery Voltage

12V

Alternator Output

220 amps

Headlight Wattage

55W (low beam)

Battery Capacity

850 CCA

Interior Lighting

LED

Available Specifications

Battery System

This section covers the battery specifications and related components for the 2010-2018 RAM 3500. It includes details on battery type, capacity, and maintenance tips to ensure optimal performance.

Battery Specifications
  • Battery Type: AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat)
  • Voltage: 12V
  • Capacity: 850 CCA (Cold Cranking Amps)
  • Location: Under the hood on the driver's side
  • Maintenance: Maintenance-free design
Battery Charging System
  • Alternator Output: 220 amps
  • Voltage Regulator: Integrated
  • Charging Time: Approx. 30 minutes for 80% charge
  • Charging Indicator: Dashboard warning light

Alternator System

This section provides detailed information on the alternator system, including its specifications, functionality, and common troubleshooting tips for the RAM 3500.

Alternator Specifications
  • Type: High-output alternator
  • Output: 220 amps
  • Voltage: 14V
  • Belt Type: Serpentine belt
Alternator Maintenance
  • Inspection Interval: Every 30,000 miles
  • Belt Tension: Auto-tensioning system
  • Common Issues: Belt wear, voltage regulator failure

Lighting System

This section outlines the lighting system of the 2010-2018 RAM 3500, including headlights, taillights, and interior lighting specifications.

Headlight Specifications
  • Type: Halogen or optional HID
  • Wattage: 55W (low beam), 60W (high beam)
  • Bulb Type: H11 (low beam), 9005 (high beam)
  • Beam Distance: Approx. 300 feet
Interior Lighting
  • Type: LED
  • Wattage: 5W
  • Color Temperature: 6000K
  • Location: Overhead console, footwells

Component Specifications

Overview

Type
12-volt system
Configuration
negative ground
Platform
standard duty
Battery Type
lead-acid
Alternator Type
high-output

Dimensions

Battery Length
12.5 in (31.75 cm)
Battery Width
6.875 in (17.46 cm)
Battery Height
8.875 in (22.54 cm)
Alternator Diameter
5.5 in (13.97 cm)
Alternator Length
6.75 in (17.15 cm)
Wire Gauge
4 AWG
Fuse Box Dimensions
8.5 x 6 x 3 in (21.59 x 15.24 x 7.62 cm)

Materials

Battery Case
polypropylene
Battery Terminals
lead alloy
Alternator Housing
aluminum
Wiring Insulation
PVC
Fuse Box
thermoplastic

Features

Lighting
  • LED headlights
  • fog lights
  • bed lighting
  • cargo lamp
Power Management
  • battery saver
  • load shedding
  • smart alternator
  • battery monitoring
Connectivity
  • Bluetooth
  • USB ports
  • auxiliary input
  • satellite radio
Safety Lighting
  • emergency brake light
  • rear fog lights
  • automatic headlights
  • lane departure warning
Convenience
  • power windows
  • power locks
  • remote start
  • heated mirrors

Safety Features

Circuit Protection
  • fuse box
  • circuit breakers
  • fusible links
Lighting Safety
  • auto-dimming headlights
  • hazard lights
  • emergency brake light
Electrical Isolation
  • battery disconnect
  • ground fault detection
  • isolated circuits

Comfort Features

Climate Control
  • dual-zone AC
  • rear vents
  • heated seats
Audio System
  • premium speakers
  • subwoofer
  • amplifier
instrumentation
  • digital display
  • touchscreen
  • head-up display
Lighting Comfort
  • ambient lighting
  • reading lights
  • map lights

Accessories

Charging
  • USB ports
  • wireless charger
  • inverter
Lighting
  • LED light bar
  • bed lights
  • spotlights
Audio
  • Bluetooth adapter
  • auxiliary input
  • subwoofer

Maintenance

Service interval
every 30,000 miles or 24 months
Service Items
  • inspect battery terminals
  • check alternator belt
  • test battery voltage
  • inspect wiring harness
  • replace cabin air filter
Maintenance Notes
Ensure all connections are clean and tight, monitor battery health regularly.

Warranty

Basic Warranty
Miles: 36,000
Years: 3
Coverage: bumper to bumper
Powertrain Warranty
Miles: 60,000
Years: 5
Coverage: engine, transmission, drivetrain
Corrosion Warranty
Miles: unlimited
Years: 5
Coverage: rust-through protection
Battery Warranty
Miles: 36,000
Years: 3
Coverage: battery replacement

Production Details

Manufacturer
Chrysler Group LLC
Manufacturing Process
  • automated assembly
  • precision welding
  • quality testing
Quality Control
Testing: electrical load testing
inspection: visual and functional
Certification: ISO 9001
Sustainability Practices
  • recycled materials
  • energy-efficient production
  • waste reduction
Production Metrics
Units Per Day: 500
Defect Rate: 0.1%
Production Time: 8 hours

Service Information for electrical Service

Maintenance and service requirements specific to this component

30,000
24
  • inspect battery terminals
  • check alternator belt
  • test battery voltage
  • inspect wiring harness

Ensure all connections are clean and tight.

60,000
48
  • replace alternator belt
  • inspect alternator output
  • check fuse box connections
  • test ground connections

Use a multimeter for accurate voltage readings.

100,000
84
  • replace battery
  • inspect alternator brushes
  • test all electrical circuits
  • replace cabin air filter

Consider upgrading to a high-performance battery if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

Q1

What are the electrical system compatibility details for the 2010-2018 RAM 3500?

The 2010-2018 RAM 3500 features a 12-volt electrical system with a 160-amp alternator standard. It supports dual batteries for diesel models and is compatible with aftermarket accessories like auxiliary lights and inverters, provided they do not exceed the system's capacity. The fuse box is located under the hood, and the wiring harness is designed to handle up to 30 amps for most circuits.

Q2

What are the maintenance requirements for the RAM 3500 electrical system?

Regularly inspect the battery terminals for corrosion and clean them with a baking soda solution. Check the alternator belt for wear and tension every 15,000 miles. Test the battery voltage annually and replace if it falls below 12.4 volts. Inspect wiring harnesses for damage or fraying, especially in harsh climates. Follow the owner's manual for specific intervals.

Q3

How do I replace the alternator in a 2010-2018 RAM 3500?

Disconnect the negative battery terminal. Remove the serpentine belt using a belt tensioner tool. Unbolt the alternator and disconnect its wiring harness. Install the new alternator, reconnect the wiring, and reinstall the serpentine belt. Reconnect the battery and test the system to ensure proper charging.

Q4

What should I do if my RAM 3500's electrical system is malfunctioning?

Check the battery voltage with a multimeter; it should read 12.6 volts when off and 13.7-14.7 volts when running. Inspect fuses for any blown circuits. Test the alternator for proper output. If issues persist, scan for diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) using an OBD-II scanner to identify specific electrical faults.

Q5

How can I optimize the electrical performance of my RAM 3500?

Upgrade to a high-output alternator if adding power-hungry accessories. Use high-quality AGM or lithium-ion batteries for better performance and longevity. Install a battery isolator for dual-battery setups. Regularly clean and tighten all electrical connections. Avoid overloading circuits by distributing power draw evenly.

Factory Service Resources

Access official service manuals, technical documents, and repair guides. These resources provide detailed procedures, specifications, and diagrams directly from the manufacturer.

2010-2018 RAM 3500 Service Manual

Coming Soon

This comprehensive manual covers electrical system diagnostics, repairs, and maintenance procedures for the 2010-2018 RAM 3500.

RAM 3500 Electrical System Technical Bulletin

Coming Soon

This bulletin outlines common electrical issues, updates, and recalls for the 2010-2018 RAM 3500 models.

RAM 3500 Electrical Parts Catalog

Coming Soon

This catalog lists all OEM and compatible aftermarket electrical components for the 2010-2018 RAM 3500.

About the Author

Expert automotive knowledge and experience

Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
ASE

Alan Montanye

Automotive Technical Specialist

ASE Master Certified Technician with over a decade of hands-on experience in automotive repair and diagnostics.

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