2017 Ram 3500 Battery Size & Group

Quick answer

• BCI Group Size: Group 65 (gasoline) or Group 31 (diesel)
• CCA Rating: 750 CCA minimum for gasoline; 800-1000 CCA for diesel
• Reserve Capacity: 130 minutes minimum for gasoline; 180-200 minutes for diesel
• AGM vs. Flooded: Flooded lead-acid is standard, but AGM is a recommended upgrade for both gasoline and diesel models for improved durability and performance.
• Terminal Layout: Top post
• Physical Dimensions: (Approximate, varies slightly by manufacturer)
  • Group 65: 12.06" L x 7.5" W x 7.31" H
  • Group 31: 13" L x 6.8125" W x 9.4375" H
• Dual-Battery Setup: Yes, diesel models (6.7L Cummins) utilize a dual-battery setup wired in parallel.

Replacement battery options

Here are some popular replacement battery options for your 2017 Ram 3500. Always verify the BCI group size and specifications to ensure compatibility.

• Interstate Batteries:
  • Gasoline (Group 65): MTP-65 or HFP-65 (AGM)
  • Diesel (Group 31): 31-MHD (heavy-duty flooded) or AGM-31 (AGM)
• Optima Batteries:
  • Gasoline (Group 65): YellowTop D65
  • Diesel (Group 31): YellowTop D31A
• DieHard Batteries:
  • Gasoline (Group 65): DieHard Platinum AGM Group 65
  • Diesel (Group 31): DieHard Platinum AGM Group 31
• Odyssey Batteries:
  • Gasoline (Group 65): ODP-AGM65
  • Diesel (Group 31): ODP-AGM31
• ACDelco Batteries:
  • Gasoline (Group 65): 65AGMHR (AGM) or 65PS (Professional Flooded)
  • Diesel (Group 31): 31AGM (AGM) or 31PHD (Professional Flooded)

AGM vs. flooded — which does this vehicle need?

The 2017 Ram 3500, whether equipped with the gasoline 5.7L HEMI, 6.4L HEMI, or the 6.7L Cummins diesel, originally came with flooded lead-acid batteries from the factory. While flooded batteries are perfectly adequate and often more budget-friendly, upgrading to an Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) battery is highly recommended, especially for the diesel models.

AGM batteries offer several advantages:

• Durability: They are more resistant to vibration and impacts, which is beneficial for heavy-duty trucks.
• Longer Lifespan: Generally, AGM batteries last longer than conventional flooded batteries under similar conditions.
• Improved Performance: They provide more consistent power delivery, handle deep discharges better, and recharge faster.
• Maintenance-Free: AGM batteries are sealed and do not require water top-offs.
• Better in Extreme Temperatures: They tend to perform better in both very high and very low temperatures.

For the 6.7L Cummins diesel with its demanding starting requirements and more complex electrical system (including grid heaters), the benefits of an AGM battery are even more pronounced. If you frequently use accessories, have aftermarket electronics, or drive in extreme climates, AGM is a worthwhile investment.

Post-installation relearn / reset procedure

After replacing the battery in your 2017 Ram 3500, it's important to understand that the vehicle's computer (PCM/ECM) may require a brief "re-learn" period or a specific reset procedure, especially to ensure optimal charging system operation and to clear any lingering fault codes.

General Procedure:

1. Install the new battery(ies): Ensure all connections are clean and secure.
2. Start the engine: Allow the truck to idle for at least 10-15 minutes without touching the accelerator. This gives the computer time to re-learn idle parameters.
3. Drive cycle: Take the truck for a normal drive, including some city and highway driving. The computer will monitor various sensors and adjust fuel trim and shift points.

Specific Considerations:

• Window Express Up/Down: You might need to reset the one-touch express up/down feature for the power windows. Typically, this involves holding the window switch down until the window is fully open, then holding it up until it's fully closed, and continuing to hold for an additional 2-5 seconds in both directions.
• Radio Presets: Your radio presets and clock will likely be reset and will need to be reprogrammed.
• Steering Angle Sensor: In some cases, if the stability control warning light comes on, you might need to perform a steering angle sensor calibration. This often involves driving straight for a short distance at low speed.
• Battery Monitoring System (BMS): Modern vehicles, including some Ram trucks, have a Battery Monitoring System. While the 2017 Ram 3500 typically doesn't require a specific "reset" for the BMS after a simple battery swap like some newer vehicles, letting the vehicle sit for a few hours after replacement (ignition off) can help the system re-evaluate the new battery's state of charge.

If you experience persistent warning lights or unusual behavior after a battery replacement, it's advisable to have a professional diagnose the issue with a scan tool.

Signs of a failing battery

Recognizing the signs of a dying battery can save you from being stranded. Look out for:

• Slow Engine Crank: The most common sign. The engine turns over slowly, or "drags" when starting.
• Dim Headlights/Interior Lights: Especially noticeable when trying to start the truck.
• Dashboard Warning Lights: A battery light or check engine light (sometimes triggered by low voltage) can indicate an issue.
• Corrosion on Terminals: Excessive furry, colored growth on the battery terminals can impede current flow.
• Swollen or Bulging Battery Case: A sign of internal damage or overcharging.
• Clicking Sound: A rapid clicking sound when turning the key, but no engine crank, often indicates a very low or dead battery.
• Electrical Gremlins: Unexplained issues with electronics, radio, or power accessories.
• Age: Batteries typically last 3-5 years. If your battery is older than this, it's wise to have it tested.

Common battery issues for this generation

The 2017 Ram 3500 is a robust truck, but like any vehicle, it can experience battery-related issues common to its generation, especially considering the higher electrical demands of diesel engines.

• Parasitic Draws: Aftermarket accessories, faulty modules, or even internal issues within the factory electrical system can cause a "parasitic draw," slowly draining the battery(ies) even when the truck is off. This is more common with the complex electrical systems in modern trucks.
• Diesel Starting Demands: The high compression and glow plug/grid heater systems in the 6.7L Cummins dieselエンジン place significant strain on the batteries during cold starts. Weak batteries will quickly show their inadequacy in cold weather.
• Alternator Issues: While not directly a battery issue, a failing alternator will lead to undercharging and prematurely kill even a new battery. Always check the charging system when replacing a battery.
• Terminal Corrosion: Ram trucks, like many vehicles, can suffer from battery terminal corrosion, particularly in humid or salty environments. This impedes electrical flow and can mimic a dying battery.
• Vibration Damage: Heavy-duty trucks experience more vibration. Over time, this can damage the internal plates of a flooded battery, leading to premature failure. This is where AGM batteries shine.
• Factory Battery Lifespan: Original equipment (OEM) batteries typically last around 3-4 years. Owners often notice issues developing around this age.

Find a trusted shop on Repairius.