2004 Dodge Ram 3500 Pickup Owner's Manual - Page 126

126 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE ELECTRICAL POWER OUTLETS The auxiliary electrical outlet can provide power for in cab accessories designed for use with the standard "cigar lighter" plug. The outlet is located in the instrument panel below the ash receiver. A cap is attached to the outlet base indicating "Power Outlet" 12V-20A. There is an additional Power Outlet in the center console of a 40/20/40 seat (if equipped). The outlet(s) has/have a fused direct feed from the battery so it/they receive power whether the ignition is ON or OFF. All accessories connected to this/these outlet(s) should be removed or turned OFF when the vehicle is not in use to protect the battery against discharge. CAUTION! Electrical Outlet Use With Engine Off • Many accessories that can be plugged in draw power from the vehicle's battery, even when not in use (i.e. cellular phones, etc.). Eventually, if plugged in long enough, the vehicle's battery will discharge sufficiently to degrade battery life and/or prevent engine starting. • Accessories that draw higher power (i.e. coolers, vacuum cleaners, lights, etc.), will discharge the battery even more quickly. Only use these intermittently and with greater caution. • After the use of high power draw accessories, or long periods of the vehicle not being started (with accessories still plugged in), the vehicle must be driven a sufficient length of time to allow the generator to recharge the vehicle's battery.