Why Your 2025 Dodge Charger Battery Dies and How to Fix It

How to Fix Battery Issues

Experiencing battery problems in your 2025 Dodge Charger can be frustrating. Battery issues can manifest in various ways, from warning lights to difficulty starting the vehicle. Some owners have expressed concern over battery size, with one owner stating, "The thing is that it has a tiny battery … I don’t know why they didn’t install a bigger battery there is tons of extra room in the trunk" (source). Addressing these issues promptly can prevent further complications and ensure your vehicle's reliability.

Symptoms

Owners of the vehicle have reported various symptoms related to battery issues. One common symptom is the appearance of warning lights on the dashboard. These lights can indicate a range of problems, from a simple low-voltage situation to more complex electrical issues. The specific warning lights that appear can offer clues about the nature of the problem.

Another symptom is difficulty starting the vehicle. This can range from a slow crank to a complete failure to start. A slow crank often indicates that the battery is not providing enough power to the starter motor. A complete failure to start could mean the battery is completely dead or there is a problem with the starter or related components.

In some instances, owners have reported that the car emits strange sounds and refuses to turn off. As one owner noted: "When someone arrived to help, they tried to turn off the car, but it emitted a strange sound and refused to turn off. Suddenly, two warning lights appeared on my dashboard: the red steering wheel sign and the low fuel indicator light" (source). This can be a sign of a more serious electrical problem affecting multiple systems.

Furthermore, warning lights like the red steering wheel sign and low fuel indicator can appear simultaneously with battery-related issues. While seemingly unrelated, these lights can be triggered by voltage fluctuations or other electrical anomalies stemming from a faulty battery or charging system. The interconnected nature of modern vehicle electronics means that a problem in one area can often manifest in unexpected ways.

Voltage spikes have been mentioned as a symptom related to batteries, which can wreak havoc on sensitive electronic components. It's important to address this symptom as soon as possible to avoid more serious problems.

Most Likely Cause

Based on owner reports, the primary cause of battery issues in the vehicle seems to be related to the fuel system. While seemingly unrelated, a malfunctioning fuel system can place undue stress on the battery. For example, a faulty fuel pump drawing excessive current can drain the battery, especially during starting. Similarly, issues with the fuel injectors or other fuel system components can cause the engine to crank longer, further depleting the battery's charge.

The correlation between the fuel system and the battery is often overlooked, but it's essential to consider this connection when troubleshooting battery problems. If the battery is repeatedly failing or exhibiting signs of weakness, investigating the fuel system for potential issues is a worthwhile step.

How to Diagnose

Diagnosing battery issues requires a systematic approach to pinpoint the root cause of the problem. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you diagnose the issue:

1. Visual Inspection: Begin by visually inspecting the battery terminals and connections. Look for signs of corrosion, loose connections, or damage to the battery case. Clean any corrosion with a wire brush and ensure the connections are tight.

2. Battery Voltage Test: Use a multimeter to measure the battery voltage. A fully charged battery should read around 12.6 volts. If the voltage is significantly lower, the battery may be discharged or damaged.

   • Tool Required: Multimeter

3. Load Test: Perform a load test to assess the battery's ability to deliver power under load. A load tester applies a load to the battery and measures the voltage drop. A significant voltage drop indicates a weak or failing battery.

   • Tool Required: Load Tester

4. Charging System Test: Check the charging system to ensure the alternator is properly charging the battery. Start the engine and use a multimeter to measure the voltage at the battery terminals. The voltage should be between 13.5 and 14.5 volts. If the voltage is outside this range, there may be a problem with the alternator or charging system.

   • Tool Required: Multimeter

5. Parasitic Draw Test: Perform a parasitic draw test to identify any excessive current draw when the vehicle is turned off. A parasitic draw can drain the battery overnight, leading to starting problems. Use a multimeter to measure the current draw with the vehicle off and all accessories turned off. A normal parasitic draw should be less than 50 milliamps.

   • Tool Required: Multimeter

6. Fuel System Inspection: Given the correlation between battery issues and the fuel system, inspect the fuel system components. Check the fuel pump, fuel injectors, and fuel filter for any signs of malfunction or blockage. A fuel pressure test can help assess the fuel pump's performance.

   • Tool Required: Fuel Pressure Tester

7. Check for Warning Lights: Note any warning lights on the dashboard and use an OBD-II scanner to retrieve any stored trouble codes. These codes can provide valuable information about the nature of the problem and help narrow down the diagnosis. As mentioned previously, warning lights like the red steering wheel and low fuel indicator lights can be related to this.

   • Tool Required: OBD-II Scanner

Step-by-Step Fix

Once you've diagnosed the battery issue, you can proceed with the necessary repairs. Here's a step-by-step guide to fixing common battery problems:

1. Replace the Battery: If the battery is weak or failing, replace it with a new one. Ensure the new battery is the correct size and type for your vehicle.
2. Clean Battery Terminals: Clean the battery terminals and connections to remove any corrosion. Use a wire brush and a mixture of baking soda and water. Rinse thoroughly and dry before reconnecting the terminals.
3. Tighten Connections: Ensure all battery connections are tight and secure. Loose connections can cause voltage drops and starting problems.
4. Repair Charging System: If the charging system is not functioning properly, repair or replace the alternator. Test the alternator output voltage to ensure it is within the specified range.
5. Address Parasitic Draw: Identify and eliminate any excessive parasitic draw. Use a multimeter to measure the current draw and systematically disconnect circuits to isolate the source of the draw.
6. Repair Fuel System: If the fuel system is the source of the problem, repair or replace any faulty components. This may include replacing the fuel pump, fuel injectors, or fuel filter.
7. Use a Trickle Charger: To maintain the battery, consider using a trickle charger. As one owner asked: "Would I be okay throwing a (quality) trickle charger on it on Sundays and what specs should I be looking for in one?" (source) Using a trickle charger is especially important if the car is not driven regularly or is stored for extended periods.
8. Avoid Short Idling: Avoid starting your vehicle and only letting it idle for a short amount of time. As one owner shares: "A word of caution from someone who travels internationally for work and regularly faces this issue you are facing. Starting it for 15 minutes and letting it idle and shutting it off again will do more harm than good to your battery" (source).

Parts and Tools Needed

• New Battery: Ensure it matches the vehicle's specifications (CCA, size).
• Battery Terminal Cleaner: For removing corrosion.
• Wire Brush: For cleaning terminals.
• Multimeter: For voltage testing and parasitic draw testing.
• Load Tester: For assessing battery health under load.
• Alternator Tester: (Optional) To test alternator output.
• OBD-II Scanner: To read diagnostic trouble codes.
• Wrench Set: For removing and tightening battery terminals.
• Fuel Pressure Tester: To check fuel pump performance.
• Trickle Charger: To maintain charge during storage.

Real Owner Costs

The cost of fixing battery issues can vary depending on the nature of the problem and whether you choose to DIY or take it to a shop.

• New Battery: $100 - $300 (DIY)
• Alternator Replacement: $300 - $600 (DIY) or $500 - $1000 (Shop)
• Fuel Pump Replacement: $200 - $400 (DIY) or $400 - $800 (Shop)
• Diagnostic Fee: $50 - $150 (Shop)
• Labor Costs: $75 - $150 per hour (Shop)

Example 1: DIY Battery Replacement

• New Battery: $150
• Battery Terminal Cleaner: $10
• Total: $160

Example 2: Shop Repair - Alternator Replacement

• Diagnostic Fee: $100
• Alternator: $400
• Labor (2 hours x $100/hour): $200
• Total: $700

Prevention

Preventing battery issues involves regular maintenance and proactive care. Here are some tips to help prevent battery problems:

• Regular Battery Checks: Periodically check the battery voltage and perform a load test to assess its health.
• Clean Terminals: Keep the battery terminals clean and free of corrosion.
• Minimize Parasitic Draw: Turn off all accessories when the vehicle is off to minimize parasitic draw.
• Use a Trickle Charger: If the vehicle is not driven regularly, use a trickle charger to maintain the battery's charge.
• Proper Fuel System Maintenance: Ensure the fuel system is properly maintained to prevent undue stress on the battery.
• Avoid Short Trips: Avoid frequent short trips, as they do not allow the battery to fully recharge.
• Consider the Climate: Be mindful of the weather - extreme hot and cold weather can impact battery performance.

What Owners Say

Real experiences from DODGE owners:

Owner Experiences

"A word of caution from someone who travels internationally for work and regularly faces this issue you are facing. Starting it for 15 minutes and letting it idle and shutting it off again will do more harm than good to your battery." — bkirchhoff (source)

"It and the alternator both are fine. Would I be okay throwing a (quality) trickle charger on it on Sundays and what specs should I be looking for in one?" — IHateBankJobs (source)

"Would I be okay throwing a (quality) trickle charger on it on Sundays and what specs should I be looking for in one? Would I need to do it weekly or would like once a month be sufficient?" — IHateBankJobs (source)

Lessons Learned

⚠️ "Suddenly, two warning lights appeared on my dashboard: the red steering wheel sign and the low fuel indicator light. The only way to shift a gear was to use the neutral release, which was the only way the car could function somewhat." — Right_Associate_5200 (source)

⚠️ "When someone arrived to help, they tried to turn off the car, but it emitted a strange sound and refused to turn off. Suddenly, two warning lights appeared on my dashboard: the red steering wheel sign and the low fuel indicator light." — Right_Associate_5200 (source)

Pro Tips from Owners

💡 "Someone asked a similar question (specifically he was asking about remote starting it a few times while away) in another post and this was my advice: A word of caution from someone who travels internationally for work and regularly faces this issue you are facing." — bkirchhoff (source)

Real Repair Costs

"It was on clearance with a battery/charger for like $40 about 3 years ago. It's been a solid little pump." — kornbread435 (source)

FAQ

Q: How long does it take to fix a battery issue?

A: The time it takes to fix a battery issue can vary depending on the nature of the problem. Replacing a battery can take as little as 30 minutes, while diagnosing and repairing charging system or fuel system issues can take several hours.

Q: Can I drive with a battery warning light on?

A: It is not recommended to drive with a battery warning light on, as it could indicate a serious problem with the charging system or electrical system. Continuing to drive could damage other components or leave you stranded.

Q: Is this a common issue on the vehicle?

A: While battery issues can occur on any vehicle, including the car, several factors can contribute to battery problems, such as driving habits, climate, and maintenance practices. The relatively small battery size mentioned by one owner may also contribute to the problem, especially in vehicles with high electrical demands.

Q: DIY vs mechanic - what's recommended?

A: Replacing a battery is a relatively straightforward DIY task that most owners can perform with basic tools. However, diagnosing and repairing charging system or fuel system issues may require specialized tools and knowledge, making it best left to a qualified mechanic. If you are not comfortable working on your vehicle's electrical system, it is always best to seek professional assistance. Also, since some owners mentioned the "tiny battery", the expertise of a mechanic may be needed for alternative battery solutions.