How To Clear Stored Messages Ram 1500

How to Clear Stored Messages on Your Ram 1500's Infotainment System

The Ram 1500's infotainment system, like many modern vehicles, stores various messages, notifications, and alerts. These can range from simple reminders about low tire pressure to more complex diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs). While these messages are helpful, having too many can clutter the screen and make it difficult to find important information. This guide explains how to effectively clear these stored messages, focusing on different message types and ensuring you address the underlying issue where necessary.

Understanding Different Types of Messages

Before diving into clearing messages, it's crucial to understand what kind of message you're dealing with. This will determine the best method for clearing it. Ram 1500s often display messages in these categories:

1. Infotainment System Messages:

These are typically related to the functionality of the infotainment screen itself, such as low battery warnings for the screen or Bluetooth connectivity issues. These are usually cleared through simple system resets or by addressing the underlying problem (e.g., charging the screen's battery).

2. Vehicle System Messages (Warnings and Alerts):

These are critical messages from your vehicle's onboard diagnostic system (OBD). Examples include low tire pressure, check engine light alerts (accompanied by a DTC code), or other critical system failures. Never simply ignore these messages. Addressing the underlying problem is essential for your safety and the longevity of your vehicle. Clearing the message doesn't fix the problem.

3. Navigation System Messages:

Messages related to navigation, such as incorrect address entries or route calculation errors, often clear themselves after the navigation system completes its task or the error is resolved. Sometimes, a simple system reset might be required.

How to Clear Different Message Types

The methods for clearing messages vary depending on the type:

Clearing Infotainment System Messages:

Often, a simple system reboot will suffice. This usually involves turning the vehicle off completely, waiting a few moments, and then restarting it. Some models may require holding down specific buttons on the infotainment system to initiate a reset. Consult your owner's manual for specific instructions.

Clearing Vehicle System Messages (Warnings and Alerts):

These messages require attention to the underlying issue. For example:

• Low Tire Pressure: Inflate your tires to the correct pressure (specified on the driver's side doorjamb sticker). The message should clear automatically after driving a short distance.
• Check Engine Light (accompanied by a DTC): This requires professional diagnosis. A mechanic can use an OBD-II scanner to read the diagnostic trouble code and pinpoint the problem. Simply clearing the message won't resolve the issue; it will likely reappear.
• Other Warnings: Consult your owner's manual for guidance on specific warning messages and the steps to take.

Important Note: Ignoring persistent warning lights or messages can lead to more serious problems. Always address the underlying issue.

Clearing Navigation System Messages:

Navigation messages generally clear themselves. If a message persists, try the following:

• Retry the Navigation Input: Ensure your destination is correctly entered.
• Reboot the Navigation System: This might involve restarting the entire infotainment system (as described above).
• Update Navigation Maps: Outdated maps can cause errors. Check for map updates through your Ram's infotainment settings.

When to Seek Professional Help

If you are experiencing persistent messages you cannot clear, or if the messages are accompanied by unusual vehicle behavior, seek professional assistance from a qualified mechanic or your Ram dealership.

By understanding the different types of messages and following these steps, you can effectively manage and clear stored messages on your Ram 1500's infotainment system, maintaining a clear and uncluttered display. Remember, addressing underlying problems is crucial for vehicle safety and performance.