How to reset RAM 1500 after battery change?

A RAM 1500 generally does not require a special reset procedure after a battery change; the vehicle’s control modules will relearn necessary settings during normal driving. If you want to help the process along, perform a standard drive cycle and reconfigure any lost radio or TPMS settings as needed.

Understanding memory and control modules after a battery change

Disconnecting the 12-volt battery can erase learned values stored in the PCM (engine control module), the TCM (transmission control module), and other systems. This may affect idle speed, fuel trims, and shift timing. The infotainment system and memory-based features (like radio presets or seat/mirror positions) can also lose saved data. Most systems will recalibrate automatically as you drive, but some items may require manual re-entry or a dealer tool for a full reset.

Drive cycle and steps to relearn

The following steps provide a practical approach to allow the RAM 1500 to relearn adaptation values after a battery change. Exact procedures can vary by model year and engine option; consult your owner's manual for model-specific guidance.

1. With the vehicle parked safely, reconnect the battery if you removed it. Attach the positive terminal first, then the negative, and ensure clean, tight connections.


2. Start the engine and allow it to idle for a couple of minutes with the transmission in Park. Do not rev the engine during this period.


3. Drive normally, starting with light acceleration and gradually increasing to typical driving speeds. Avoid aggressive driving for the first 20–30 miles (or the first several minutes of driving) as the ECU relearns.


4. Continue driving through a variety of speeds and loads to complete the adaptive learning drive cycle (roughly 20–50 miles or more, depending on conditions). This helps the PCM/TCM optimize fuel trims and shifting.


5. If your RAM 1500 uses a throttle relearn procedure, perform it per the owner's manual; in many cases, normal driving is sufficient for throttle adaptation.


6. Check for dashboard warning lights. If a fault code appears, use an OBD-II scanner to read codes and address issues before clearing them.

After completing the drive cycle, most RAM 1500s should have restored smooth operation. If you notice continued rough idling, harsh shifting, or check engine lights, seek service.

Radio, TPMS, and memory settings after battery work

Battery removal can reset infotainment memory and tire pressure sensors. Re-enter radio presets, reconnect Bluetooth devices, and re-sync any paired phones. If the model has memory seats or mirrors, you may need to re-save those positions.

TPMS (tire pressure monitoring system) may require a relearn procedure if sensors were disturbed or replaced. Some vehicles relearn automatically after a short drive, while others require a specific reset using the vehicle’s menu or an OBD-II tool.

For lingering infotainment issues or if warning lights persist, consult a RAM dealer or a qualified automotive technician. Some model-year-specific relearns require dealer-level software to complete.

What to do if problems persist after a battery change

If symptoms persist after battery replacement and the initial drive cycle, try these steps:

• Scan for diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) with an OBD-II scanner to identify potential faults.


• Inspect battery terminals for corrosion and ensure solid ground connections.


• Verify tire pressures and TPMS sensor status; a relearn may be necessary if sensors were disturbed.


• Re-enter or re-pair radio/infotainment devices and re-save any memory seats or mirrors as applicable.

If issues continue, a dealership or independent shop with FCA/Stellantis diagnostic capabilities can perform targeted adaptive learning resets or model-specific relearns.

Summary

After a battery change on most RAM 1500 models, there is no universal, one-size-fits-all reset procedure. The vehicle’s adaptive learning processes typically resume through normal driving, with the PCM/TCM re-calibrating over time. Radio and memory settings may need manual re-entry, and TPMS sensors may require a relearn. If driveability problems persist, seek professional diagnostics to confirm proper relearning and system health.

How do I reset my Dodge RAM 1500 computer?

To reset a Dodge Ram 1500 computer, you can either perform a soft reset of the Uconnect system by holding the volume and tune buttons for 10 seconds or a hard reset by disconnecting the negative battery terminal for at least 20 minutes. The method you choose depends on whether you are troubleshooting the infotainment system or clearing general codes and re-learning procedures. 
Soft reset (for the Uconnect/infotainment system)

• For newer models: With the vehicle in "run" mode (foot off the brake, engine on), press and hold the top right corner of the infotainment screen for about 15 seconds until the screen goes blank and reboots. 
• For older models: Press and hold the volume and tune buttons on the stereo simultaneously for about 10 seconds until the screen reboots. 

This video demonstrates how to perform a soft reset on a newer model Ram 1500: 57sDIY GEEKYouTube · Oct 5, 2020
Hard reset (for the entire computer) 

• Turn off the vehicle and open the hood. 
• Locate the negative (black) battery terminal clamp.
• Use a wrench to loosen the nut on the clamp and remove the negative cable from the battery post. 
• Wait at least 20 minutes for all power to drain from the system. Some recommend holding the two battery terminals together with a piece of wire to speed up the process, but it's important to ensure no power is connected to either terminal. 
• Reconnect the negative battery cable and tighten the clamp. 
• Start the vehicle and allow it to idle for several minutes. The computer will need time to relearn its settings. For some issues, you may also need to drive the vehicle for up to 50 miles for a complete recalibration. 

You can watch this video to learn how to perform a hard reset by disconnecting the battery: 41sPeter LYouTube · Sep 6, 2025

How do you reset the battery on a Dodge RAM 1500?

To perform a basic battery reset on a Ram 1500, disconnect the negative battery terminal, wait about 20 minutes, and then reconnect it. For a more complete "hard reset," disconnect both terminals, hold the cables together for 15-30 minutes to drain any remaining power, and then reconnect the positive terminal first, followed by the negative. For specific systems like the Battery Management System (BMS), after reconnecting the negative terminal, turn the ignition to the "RUN" position, press the accelerator to the floor for 10-15 seconds, then turn the ignition off before starting the truck normally.
 
Basic reset (for check engine light)

1. Turn off your Ram 1500 and open the hood. 
2. Locate the negative (black) battery terminal and loosen the bolt. 
3. Carefully remove the negative cable from the terminal. 
4. Wait for at least 20 minutes to allow the onboard computer to reset. 
5. Reconnect the negative cable to the terminal and tighten the bolt. 

Advanced "hard" reset (for electronic issues)

1. Turn off your Ram 1500 and open the hood. 
2. Disconnect both the negative (black) and then the positive (red) battery cables. 
3. Touch the disconnected positive and negative cables together, making sure they are not touching the battery or any metal parts of the truck. 
4. Hold the cables together for 15 to 30 minutes to fully discharge the capacitors in the vehicle's modules. 
5. Reconnect the positive terminal first, followed by the negative terminal. 

You can watch this video to learn how to perform a hard reset on your car battery: 59sUpFix Automotive Electronics RepairYouTube · Jan 3, 2023
BMS (Battery Management System) reset (for newer models with Auto Start-Stop) 

1. Disconnect the negative battery terminal and wait 10–15 minutes.
2. Reconnect the negative terminal and turn the ignition to the "RUN" position (engine off).
3. Press the accelerator pedal to the floor and hold it for 10–15 seconds.
4. Release the pedal and turn the ignition off.
5. Start the truck and let it idle for a few minutes. 

Important considerations

• Disconnecting the battery can reset your radio's anti-theft system, so you may need the security code. 
• A simple battery reset may not clear all trouble codes. If the problem persists, you may need to use an OBD-II scanner or visit a dealership to clear the codes or address the underlying issue. 
• Performing a hard reset does not replace an OBD2 scan tool for reading hard codes to diagnose specific issues. 

How to reset dodge RAM 1500 computer after battery change?

Turn off your RAM battery by disconnecting the negative battery cable. Wait for about 20 minutes to reset your RAM 1500 check engine light. Reconnect the negative battery cable.

Do I need to reset anything after replacing the battery?

Yes, you may need to reset several things after replacing a car battery, including the clock, radio presets, and power windows. Depending on your vehicle, you might also need to reset the battery management system (BMS) or clear error codes from the car's computer to ensure proper charging and performance. 
Common resets

• Clock and radio: These are often the first systems to be affected by a loss of power, and you'll need to set them again. 
• Power windows: You may need to reset the automatic function for each window. This often involves running the window all the way down and up several times until the automatic feature works again. 
• Key fob: Your key fob's programming may need to be re-synced. 
• Engine Control Unit (ECU): Some modern vehicles have an ECU that learns your driving habits. The car's computer may need a moment to recalibrate itself after the new battery is installed. 

Advanced resets

• Battery Management System (BMS): Many modern cars have a BMS that needs to be told a new battery has been installed so it can charge it correctly. This is especially important for AGM batteries. 
• Check Engine Light: The check engine light can come on after a battery change because systems haven't been properly reset or have a stored error code. You can sometimes clear this by cycling the ignition a few times or using an OBD-II scanner. 
• Battery registration: Some vehicles require "registering" the new battery with the car's computer, which ensures the charging system functions correctly. This often requires a professional tool. 

Tips for minimizing resets

• Use a memory saver: To avoid losing settings, you can use a memory saver device that connects to the car's power supply through the cigarette lighter or OBD-II port before disconnecting the battery. 
• Consult your owner's manual: Always check your vehicle's owner's manual for specific instructions or a reset procedure, as it can vary by make and model. 
• Seek professional help: If you're unsure about how to perform these resets, take your vehicle to a professional who can do it for you. They have the proper tools to ensure the new battery is properly registered and the systems are recalibrated.