Do 2016 Ram 2500 Cummins Trucks Come With Engine Block Heaters?
I remember my first winter with a diesel truck. It was a chilly morning in Michigan, and my 2016 Ram 2500 Cummins wouldn’t start easily. I wondered, are 2016 Ram 2500 Cummins coming with engine block heaters? That question led me down a rabbit hole of research and hands-on learning. In this article, I’ll share what I found about engine block heaters in these trucks. You’ll learn if they’re included, how they work, and how to use them. I’ll also give you simple tips and steps to make your diesel truck ready for cold weather. Whether you’re new to diesels or a seasoned owner, this guide is for you!
What Is an Engine Block Heater?
An engine block heater is a small device. It warms your truck’s engine in cold weather. It plugs into a wall outlet and heats the coolant. This makes starting your diesel truck easier. For a 2016 Ram 2500 with a 6.7L Cummins engine, it’s a big help. Cold weather can make diesel engines hard to start. The heater keeps the engine warm, so it starts fast and runs smoothly.
Why does this matter? Cold starts can hurt your engine. Thick oil and cold fuel don’t flow well. A block heater prevents damage and saves fuel. It’s like giving your truck a warm blanket on a freezing night!
Do All 2016 Ram 2500 Cummins Have Block Heaters?
Here’s the big question: are 2016 Ram 2500 Cummins coming with engine block heaters? Yes, they do! Every 6.7L Cummins engine in these trucks has a block heater installed at the factory. I learned this after checking my truck’s engine block. The heater is built into the engine, near the oil filter. But there’s a catch. Not all trucks come with the power cord to plug it in.
If your truck has the Cold Weather Group package, the cord is included. Without it, you’ll need to buy one. I found this out when I couldn’t locate a cord on my truck. A quick call to my dealer confirmed the heater was there, but I needed a cord for about $20–$30 online.
Why You Need a Block Heater for Your Cummins
A block heater is a lifesaver in cold climates. I live where winters hit -10°F or lower. Without a block heater, my truck took forever to warm up. Here’s why it’s important:
- Easier Starts: Warms the engine for quick startups.
- Less Wear: Reduces strain on the engine and battery.
- Faster Heat: Gets your cab warm sooner.
Without it, you risk gelling diesel fuel or weak batteries. My friend ignored his block heater and faced a costly repair. Don’t make that mistake!
How to Check for a Block Heater
Want to know if your 2016 Ram 2500 has a block heater? It’s easy to check. Here’s what I did:
- Look Under the Hood: The block heater is on the passenger side, near the oil filter.
- Find the Plug: Look for a black or orange cover where the cord plugs in.
- Check the Bumper: If the cord is included, it’s often near the front tow hook.
If you see the heater but no cord, don’t worry. You can buy a cord online. I got mine from Amazon for $15, and it worked perfectly.
How to Install a Block Heater Cord
Installing a cord is simple. I did it in 30 minutes with basic tools. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Gather Tools: You need a wrench, zip ties, and a block heater cord.
- Cool the Engine: Make sure the truck is cold to avoid burns.
- Remove Air Intake: This gives you room to reach the heater.
- Plug in the Cord: Connect it to the heater near the oil filter.
- Route the Cord: Run it to the front bumper and secure with zip ties.
- Test It: Plug it into a 120V outlet to ensure it works.
Safety Tip: Always unplug the cord before driving. I forgot once and yanked it out—oops!
Tools and Costs for Block Heater Use
You don’t need much to use a block heater. Here’s a simple table to show what’s required:
| Item | Cost | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Block Heater Cord | $15–$30 | Connects heater to power outlet |
| Extension Cord (120V) | $10–$20 | Reaches from truck to outlet |
| Timer (Optional) | $10–$25 | Turns heater on automatically |
I bought a timer to save electricity. It turns the heater on a few hours before I drive. This saves money and keeps the truck ready.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Block Heaters
Block heaters are great, but they have pros and cons. Here’s what I’ve learned:
Benefits
- Quick Starts: My truck starts in seconds, even at -20°F.
- Engine Protection: Less wear means a longer-lasting engine.
- Fuel Savings: Less idling saves diesel fuel.
Drawbacks
- Extra Cost: If the cord isn’t included, you’ll spend $15–$30.
- Electricity Use: It uses about 450–1500 watts, adding to your bill.
- Installation Time: It takes 20–30 minutes to set up the cord.
I find the benefits outweigh the drawbacks. A warm engine is worth the small cost!
Alternatives to Block Heaters
Not sold on a block heater? There are other ways to keep your Cummins warm:
- Grid Heater: Your 2016 Ram 2500 has a grid heater for cold starts. It’s built-in but uses more battery power.
- Battery Blanket: Keeps batteries warm for better performance. I tried one for $20, and it helped.
- Synthetic Oil: Flows better in cold weather. I use Rotella T6 for my truck.
These options work but don’t replace a block heater’s reliability. I stick with my heater for the best results.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
I’ve made mistakes with my block heater. Here are some to avoid:
- Forgetting to Unplug: Always unplug before driving to avoid damage.
- Using a Cheap Cord: Low-quality cords crack in cold weather. Spend a bit more for durability.
- Plugging in Too Long: Three to four hours is enough. I use a timer to avoid wasting power.
My Personal Tips for Using a Block Heater
After years with my 2016 Ram 2500, I’ve got some tricks:
- Use a Timer: Set it to turn on 3–4 hours before you drive.
- Check the Cord: Look for wear or cracks before winter.
- Route Smartly: Run the cord through the tow hook for easy access.
These tips save time and keep your truck happy. I learned the hard way when my cord frayed after a snowy winter!
Comparing Block Heater Cords
Here’s a table to compare cord options for your 2016 Ram 2500 Cummins:
| Cord Type | Price | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mopar OEM Cord | $30–$45 | Perfect fit, durable | Expensive |
| BMI Aftermarket Cord | $15–$25 | Affordable, good quality | May need slight adjustments |
| Generic Cord | $10–$15 | Very cheap | Less durable, may not fit |
I went with a BMI cord. It’s affordable and works great for my truck.
Visual Ideas for Better Understanding
To make things clearer, here are visual ideas you could use:
- Diagram of Engine Block: Show where the heater is near the oil filter.
- Cord Routing Map: Illustrate how to run the cord to the bumper.
- Timer Setup Photo: Display a timer connected to the cord and outlet.
These visuals would help beginners see the process. I wish I had them when I started!
Frequently Asked Questions
Do All 2016 Ram 2500 Cummins Have Block Heaters?
Yes, every 2016 Ram 2500 with a 6.7L Cummins engine has a block heater installed at the factory. You may need to buy a cord if your truck doesn’t have the Cold Weather Group package. Check near the oil filter for the heater and look for a cord near the tow hook.
How Do I Know If My Truck Has the Cold Weather Package?
Check your truck’s window sticker or build sheet. The Cold Weather Group includes a block heater cord and a winter grille cover. If you don’t have these, you can still use the built-in heater by buying a cord for $15–$30 online.
How Long Should I Plug in My Block Heater?
Plug it in for 3–4 hours before starting your truck. I use a timer to turn it on early in the morning. This warms the engine enough without wasting electricity. Avoid leaving it plugged in all night to save power.
Can I Install a Block Heater Cord Myself?
Yes, it’s easy! You need a wrench, zip ties, and a cord. Remove the air intake, plug the cord into the heater, and route it to the bumper. It took me 30 minutes. Watch a YouTube video for extra help.
What Happens If I Don’t Use a Block Heater?
Cold starts can strain your engine and battery. Diesel fuel may gel, and oil gets thick, making starts hard. I’ve seen trucks fail to start at -20°F without a heater. Using one protects your engine and saves repair costs.
Where Can I Buy a Block Heater Cord?
You can buy cords from Amazon, Geno’s Garage, or Mopar dealers. Prices range from $15 for aftermarket to $45 for OEM. I got a BMI cord for $20, and it’s been reliable for years. Check reviews before buying.
Is a Block Heater Worth It?
Absolutely! It saves your engine, starts faster, and warms the cab quickly. I’ve saved fuel by not idling as long. For $15–$30, it’s a small price for big benefits, especially in cold climates.
Conclusion
Engine block heaters are a must for 2016 Ram 2500 Cummins trucks in cold weather. They come standard, but you may need a cord. I’ve shared how to check, install, and use one. Try checking your truck today or grab a cord online. It’s an easy way to keep your diesel happy. Share your winter truck tips in the comments! For more diesel advice, visit Cummins Forum, Geno’s Garage, or Ram Forum. Stay warm and keep your truck running strong!
