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Engine doesn’t turn over when cold

RobsRam

RobsRam

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Hi all. I am new here and looking for some advice. I have a 2020 3500 diesel Ram with about 44000 miles on it. I never had a problem starting the engine but lately when it got cold here in Michigan the engine will not turn over at all. I pushed the starter button and waited for the heating process to finish and then it was just a click and the dashboard got crazy for a second. Tried again and he same problem. First thought….low battery. I charged the battery fully, used the volt meter and it checked 12.65V. I tried starting and I had the same problem. It’s been in the 20th degrees out here at the moment. So then I plugged in the engine heater over night and next morning it was nice and warm under the hood. Got in the truck and the engine started right up. Now this happened to me several times now in the last 2 weeks. The truck only starts with the heater plugged in. This never happened to me in the last 3 winters. Does anyone has any idea about my problem? Since I use my truck most of the time to pull my 5th wheel during the warmer seasons I still have a tank full of summer fuel but I added anti gel to it. Any help is appreciated. Btw I have AGM batteries if that helps.
 
Likely batteries. Because they read 12.65V doesn't mean they would provide enough cranking amps.
Not sure what 20F is but my trucks start in -30C no problems even if not plugged in
 
MEGA HO said:
Likely batteries. Because they read 12.65V doesn't mean they would provide enough cranking amps.
Not sure what 20F is but my trucks start in -30C no problems even if not plugged in
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It’s -22 degree Fahrenheit. And yes I never had that problem with cold temps before. Just have a hard time believing that the batteries only last 4 years. But then times and the quality of batteries have changed.
 
RobsRam said:
It’s -22 degree Fahrenheit. And yes I never had that problem with cold temps before. Just have a hard time believing that the batteries only last 4 years. But then times and the quality of batteries have changed.
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The batteries in the newer truck are really low quality. Probably lowest bidder. LOL. I replaced mine at 3.5 years.
 
Load test the batteries separately if they pass then. Check the connections at the starter. I see what you describe from time to time when starters get moisture in them. I usually pull the starter and put it in the oven at the lowest temp it goes (usually 170°F) for 30 mins then re install it. No more issues after that.
 
CdnHO said:
The batteries in the newer truck are really low quality. Probably lowest bidder. LOL. I replaced mine at 3.5 years.
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Yes I have to agree ….Did my final check just right now and the battery was 12.3V. Engine is plugged in since yesterday and it’s nice and warm under the hood. And it didn’t start….just a click. Now I have to investigate for some good batteries
 

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It’s the batteries again you’ll be lucky if you get 3 to 3 1/2 years out of any battery these days.
 
Oem does not supply agm to my knowledge. Did you install them?
 
CdnHO said:
I bought two AGM batteries from Costco. Reasonable price and warranty. Also if there is an issue a Costco is not far away.
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Kirklands are great.
 
flan said:
Oem does not supply agm to my knowledge. Did you install them?
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You’re incorrect. When I worked at FCA we had two different types of batteries on the production line. Flooded lead acid and AGM’s. Depends how you order your vehicle
 
Cseybert said:
It’s the batteries again you’ll be lucky if you get 3 to 3 1/2 years out of any battery these days.
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The OEM batteries are from Johnson controls which suck but the replacements I use I have no issue getting 6-7 years out of them. Mind you my 2019 batteries in my truck still load test strong
 
RobsRam said:
You’re incorrect. When I worked at FCA we had two different types of batteries on the production line. Flooded lead acid and AGM’s. Depends how you order your vehicle
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Hmm. What option box do you have to check to get agm’s?

Anyone else get agm in their 4.5 gen trucks from the factory?
 
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