RAM Etorque Battery Replacement Cost

RAM Etorque vehicles feature a mild-hybrid powertrain that uses a 48V battery to assist the combustion engine. Over time, like any other car battery, the Etorque battery will degrade and eventually need replacing.

In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about RAM Etorque battery replacement cost and the replacement process.

Why Does the RAM Etorque Battery Need Replacing?

There are a few main reasons why the Etorque battery may need to be replaced:

• Age/degradation - Like any other battery, the Etorque battery will slowly degrade over time and the number of charge cycles. After 5-7 years, it will typically need replacing.
• Faults/failures - On rare occasions, the battery may develop electrical faults or failures that render it unusable before the end of its typical lifespan.
• Accident damage - If the vehicle is in an accident and the battery sustains damage, it will need replacing.

The Etorque system constantly monitors the battery's voltage, current draw, and internal resistance. If any of these parameters fall outside acceptable ranges, the vehicle's diagnostic system will trigger a warning to notify you that the battery needs replacing soon.

How Much Does a RAM Etorque Battery Replacement Cost?

The average cost to replace a RAM Etorque battery ranges from $1,000-$1,500. However, there are a few factors that can impact the final price:

• Vehicle model: Batteries for larger RAM Heavy Duty trucks tend to be slightly more expensive than those for RAM 1500 trucks.
• Location: Labor rates vary between dealerships and independent shops in different cities/states.
• Warranty status: If the battery is still under warranty, the replacement may be covered at no cost.
• Year/mileage: Older high-mileage vehicles may qualify for cheaper reconditioned or rebuilt batteries.

In general, you can expect to pay somewhere between $1,000-1,500 at an authorized RAM dealership. Independent mechanics may offer the repair for a few hundred dollars less on average. A remanufactured battery would be closer to $800-1,000 installed.

RAM Etorque Battery Replacement Cost Breakdown

Here's a more detailed look at the typical cost breakdown for an RAM Etorque battery replacement:

• Battery: $500-800 for an OEM or remanufactured replacement battery.
• Labor: 1-2 hours at $100-150/hr shop labor rate equals $100-300.
• Diagnosis/Testing: $100-200 to fully diagnose/verify the battery failure.
• Disposal Fee: $25-50 core charge fee to dispose of your old battery.
• Warranty Certification: Labor to flash software and certify the replacement may add $50-100.

When all is said and done, most shops will charge between $1,000-$1,500 out the door for a full RAM Etorque battery replacement. The high-end of that range would be at an authorized dealership, while independent mechanics may save you a few hundred dollars.

RAM Etorque Battery Replacement Process

Replacing the Etorque battery is a involved process that requires disassembling parts of the vehicle and properly programming the replacement. Here are the typical steps involved:

1. Remove rear seat and trim panel covers to access the battery.
2. Disconnect negative and positive battery terminals and any wiring harness connectors.
3. Remove mounting bolts and lift out the old battery from its compartment.
4. Install the new battery into position and connect all terminals and wiring harnesses.
5. Use diagnostic tool to perform battery relearn procedure and flash new battery info to ECM.
6. Perform voltage drop, parasitic draw and functionality tests to verify system is operating correctly.
7. Reinstall trim panels and seats.
8. Road test vehicle and recheck battery/system for any faults or issues.

Proper disconnection, programming and relearn procedures are critical to ensure the hybrid system functions optimally with the replacement battery. RAM dealers are factory trained to perform the job correctly from start to finish.

RAM Etorque Battery Replacement Warranty

The RAM Etorque battery comes with a factory warranty period just like other vehicle components. Here are the relevant warranty details:

• 5 years/60,000 miles – Basic limited warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship.
• 8 years/100,000 miles – Hybrid component warranty covers Etorque specific parts including the high voltage battery pack.

During the applicable warranty periods, RAM will cover the full cost of a replacement battery if needed due to a manufacturing defect. You pay nothing. The warranty does not cover damage from accidents, inadequate maintenance or owner abuse/neglect.

Check your vehicle service history to verify if the battery is still covered. Present valid maintenance records if requested by RAM. Otherwise out-of-warranty replacements quoted above apply.

Extending the Life of Your RAM Etorque Battery

There are some simple things you can do to help maximize the lifespan of your Etorque battery and delay needing a replacement as long as possible:

• Avoid excessive idling in EV mode which puts more cycles on the battery over time.
• Use Eco mode when possible to promote optimal battery charging patterns.
• Give the vehicle a maintenance recharge if sitting for extended periods.
• Promptly address any hybrid system fault codes that appear.
• Follow all recommended service intervals in the owner's manual.

Proper long-term battery care and maintenance is key to ensuring it lasts the duration of the hybrid component warranty period trouble-free. Replacement can otherwise be necessary well before 8 years/100k miles.

Should You Replace It Yourself?

We do not recommend attempting a DIY RAM Etorque battery replacement. Here are a few important reasons why:

• High voltage safety risks - The hybrid system operates at over 48 volts, exposing you to shock/electrocution hazards.
• Special tools required - Proper diagnostic scanners and programming equipment is needed that homeowners lack.
• Warranty voiding - Any work not done by an authorized dealer voids remaining powertrain coverage.
• Difficult installation - Accessing and fitting the heavy battery requires automotive technician skills.

Let a certified RAM service center handle the job instead. Their technicians are factory trained on the hybrid system and can perform the work according to OEM specs for best results and safety.

RAM Etorque Battery Replacement – Final Thoughts

While expensive, a RAM Etorque battery replacement is a necessary maintenance item for mild hybrid vehicles equipped with the technology. Following proper care procedures can extend its life, but overall replacements should be expected every 5-7 years or 60k-100k miles on average.

Stick with authorized RAM dealerships or certified independent shops for the job. Verify warranty coverage status beforehand to save costs if applicable. With proper replacement execution, your RAM's hybrid system will continue operating at peak efficiency for many more miles to come!