2017 Ram 3500 Fuse Box Diagram & Amperage

Quick Answer

The 2017 Ram 3500 features multiple fuse box locations to protect its extensive electrical system. You'll find fuse boxes under the hood, inside the cabin (driver's side kick panel), and in some configurations, in the rear cargo area. Always consult your vehicle's owner's manual and the fuse box cover for the most accurate and trim-specific information.

Under-Hood Fuse Box (Power Distribution Center - PDC)

The Power Distribution Center (PDC) is located in the engine compartment, on the driver's side, near the battery. It contains high-current fuses and relays for major systems like the engine control module, fuel pump, ABS, and trailer connections.

Relays in the Under-Hood Fuse Box:

• Starter Relay: Controls the starter motor.
• Fuel Pump Relay: Controls power to the fuel pump.
• Run/ACC Relay: Powers various accessories when the ignition is on.
• Radiator Fan Relay: Controls the electric cooling fan.
• Trailer Tow - Battery Charge Relay: Provides power to charge a trailer battery.
• Trailer Tow - Brake Relay: Provides power for trailer electric brakes.
• Horn Relay: Activates the horn.
• HVAC Blower Motor Relay: Controls the front blower motor.
• AC Clutch Relay: Engages the air conditioning compressor clutch.

Cabin Fuse Box (Interior Fuse Box)

The cabin fuse box is located on the driver's side, behind the kick panel, near the parking brake pedal. This fuse box primarily houses fuses for interior electrical components and accessories.

How To Test A Fuse

Testing a fuse is a straightforward process that can help you diagnose electrical issues. You'll need a fuse puller (usually found in the fuse box lid or with the spare fuses) and, ideally, a multimeter or a fuse tester.

1. Locate the Fuse Box: Identify the correct fuse box for the circuit you're troubleshooting.
2. Identify the Suspect Fuse: Consult the fuse box diagram (on the lid or in this guide) to find the fuse associated with the malfunctioning component.
3. Remove the Fuse: Using the fuse puller, carefully remove the suspect fuse. Always turn off the ignition and any affected components before removing fuses.
4. Visual Inspection: Hold the fuse up to light. A good fuse will have a continuous wire or metal strip inside. A blown fuse will show a break or discoloration in the wire.
5. Test with a Multimeter (Recommended):
   • Set your multimeter to the continuity setting (usually indicated by a symbol that looks like a sound wave or diode symbol).
   • Touch the probes to the metal contact points on top of the fuse. If the fuse is good, the multimeter will beep or show a reading close to zero ohms (indicating continuity). If it's blown, you'll get no reading or an "OL" (open loop) reading.
6. Replace (If Blown): If the fuse is blown, replace it with a new fuse of the exact same amperage (A) and type. Never use a fuse with a higher amperage rating, as this can lead to serious electrical damage or fire.

Common Blown Fuses on This Vehicle

While fuses can blow for various reasons, some circuits are prone to blowing more often due to their usage or the components they protect. On the 2017 Ram 3500, common blown fuses often include:

• Cigar Lighter / 12V Power Outlets (M02 in Cabin Fuse Box): These fuses protect the auxiliary power outlets. They frequently blow when devices drawing too much current are plugged in or when there's a short circuit in a plugged-in accessory. If these aren't working, check this 20A yellow fuse first.
• Trailer Tow Circuits (F03, F18 in Under-Hood Fuse Box): Heavy-duty trucks like the Ram 3500 often tow. Issues with trailer wiring, short circuits in trailer lights, or overloads from trailer accessories can cause these fuses to blow. If your trailer lights or brakes aren't working, check the 30A green (F03) and 20A yellow (F18) fuses in the under-hood PDC.
• Blower Motor (F11, F14 in Under-Hood Fuse Box): The blower motor fuse can blow if the motor is failing, has excessive resistance, or if there's a blockage in the HVAC system causing it to work harder. If your fan isn't working on any speed, check the 25A clear (F11) and 20A yellow (F14) fuses.
• Headlights (F07, F08, F09, F10 in Under-Hood Fuse Box): While less common, a short in the headlight wiring or a faulty bulb can cause these fuses to blow. If one or both of your headlights are out, these are the first fuses to inspect.
• Radio/Infotainment (M01 in Cabin Fuse Box): Issues with the radio unit itself, connected accessories, or a short in the wiring can cause this 10A red fuse to blow. If your radio is dead, check M01.

Always remember that a blown fuse is often a symptom of an underlying problem, not the problem itself. If a fuse repeatedly blows, it's crucial to investigate the circuit for a short, an overload, or a failing component.

Find a trusted shop on Repairius.