2020 Ram 2500 Bulb Sizes

Quick reference

The 2020 Ram 2500 comes with various lighting options depending on the trim level and selected packages. Lower trims typically feature traditional halogen bulbs, while higher trims or those equipped with the optional LED Lighting Group will have factory-installed LED systems for headlights, fog lights, and some other exterior lighting. It's crucial to identify whether your Ram 2500 has halogen or LED OEM lighting as this significantly impacts replacement and upgrade choices.

For models equipped with factory LED headlights and fog lights, the individual LED components are often not serviceable, meaning if an LED fails, the entire housing or assembly may need to be replaced. This is a key difference to keep in mind when considering upgrades or repairs.

LED vs halogen upgrade considerations

Upgrading your 2020 Ram 2500 from halogen to LED bulbs can offer significant improvements in brightness, longevity, and a more modern aesthetic. However, there are several important factors to consider to ensure a successful and trouble-free installation.

CANBUS Errors: Modern vehicles like the Ram 2500 utilize a Controller Area Network (CANBUS) system to monitor various vehicle functions, including lighting. Halogen bulbs draw a specific amount of power. When you replace them with LED bulbs, which draw significantly less power, the CANBUS system may interpret this reduced draw as a "bulb out" error. This can trigger warning lights on your dashboard or cause flickering of the new LED lights. To prevent this, you will often need to use "CANBUS-compatible" LED bulbs or install load resistors (also known as decoders or anti-flicker harnesses) in line with the LED bulbs. These resistors mimic the electrical load of the original halogen bulbs, tricking the CANBUS system into thinking everything is normal.

Adapters Needed: Besides CANBUS decoders, some LED conversion kits may require specific adapters to properly seat the LED bulb into the existing housing or to connect to the factory wiring harness. Always ensure any LED kit you purchase is designed for your specific vehicle and bulb size to avoid fitment issues. For headlights, projector-style halogen housings (if applicable) can produce a better beam pattern with LED conversions compared to reflector housings, although modern LED designs are improving for both.

Beam Pattern and Glare: When installing LED bulbs in housings originally designed for halogens, there's a risk of an improper beam pattern, which can lead to reduced visibility for you or excessive glare for oncoming drivers. Quality LED bulbs are designed to mimic the filament placement of their halogen counterparts to minimize this issue, but results can vary.

How to replace each bulb

• Headlight (Low Beam/High Beam): Access is usually from the rear of the headlight assembly. You may need to remove a plastic cover or air intake duct for better access. Twist to unlock and remove the old bulb, then insert and lock the new one. For LED conversions, ensure proper seating and wiring.
• Fog Light: Typically accessed from underneath the front bumper or by removing fender liner screws. Twist and pull out the old bulb. Be careful not to drop the bulb into the bumper.
• DRL (Daytime Running Light): Often integrated into the headlight assembly. Access is similar to the low/high beams. Some DRLs are dual-filament bulbs (e.g., 3157/7443) that also serve as turn signals.
• Front Turn Signal: Located within the headlight assembly. Twist to remove the socket with the bulb, replace the bulb, and reinsert.
• Rear Turn Signal/Brake Light: Access is usually by removing the taillight assembly from the outside. There are typically a couple of screws holding the assembly in place. Once removed, twist the bulb sockets to access the bulbs.
• Reverse Light: Found within the taillight assembly, accessed in the same manner as the rear turn signal/brake light.
• License Plate Light: Usually a small housing above the license plate. Remove the screws or clips holding the housing, twist out the old bulb.
• Side Marker (Front/Rear): Small bulbs often integrated into the headlight, taillight, or fender flares. Twist the socket to remove and replace.
• Dome Light (Front/Rear)/Map Light: These are interior lights. Carefully pry off the lens cover using a plastic trim tool to avoid damage. The bulbs typically push in or have a festoon style. Be gentle to avoid breaking the plastic clips.

Always consult your owner's manual for specific instructions and diagrams for bulb replacement on your 2020 Ram 2500.

Common lighting issues for this generation

• Flickering LEDs after Upgrade: As mentioned, this is often due to CANBUS incompatibility. Installing load resistors or CANBUS-compatible LEDs usually resolves the issue.
• 'Bulb Out' Warnings: Similar to flickering, this is a common CANBUS error when switching from halogen to LED without proper resistors.
• Condensation in Headlights/Taillights: While not a bulb issue directly, condensation can occur. Ensure housings are properly sealed after any bulb replacement. Minor condensation can burn off, but persistent or excessive moisture might indicate a seal issue.
• Inconsistent LED Performance (OEM): In some cases, owners of vehicles with factory LED lighting might experience a single LED segment failing. Since these are often non-servicable, the entire assembly may need replacement, which can be costly.
• Corroded Sockets: Especially in older or high-mileage vehicles, bulb sockets can corrode, leading to intermittent connection issues. Cleaning the contacts or replacing the socket can resolve this.

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