This procedure covers the replacement of the positive battery cable on a 2011-2014 Ford F-150 with the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine, including removal of the battery and disconnection from the starter and power distribution box.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Positive battery cable × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Battery terminal protector spray (optional) × 1 — Corrosion preventative

Preparation

1. Ensure the vehicle is parked on level ground with the parking brake applied
2. Turn off all electrical accessories and remove the key from the ignition
3. Allow the engine to cool if recently operated
4. Open the hood and secure with the prop rod
5. Locate the battery in the engine compartment on the passenger side

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect negative battery terminal
   Using a 10mm socket, loosen the negative (black) battery terminal bolt. Remove the terminal from the battery post and secure it away from the battery to prevent accidental contact.
2. 2

   Disconnect positive battery terminal
   Using a 10mm socket, loosen the positive (red) battery terminal bolt. Carefully remove the terminal from the battery post. If stuck, use a battery terminal puller to avoid damaging the post.
3. 3

   Remove battery hold-down
   Locate the battery hold-down bracket at the base of the battery. Using a 13mm socket, remove the battery hold-down bolt and set aside the bracket.
   Torque spec

   Battery Hold-Down Bolt12 Nm (9 lb-ft)
4. 4

   Remove battery from vehicle
   Carefully lift the battery straight up and out of the battery tray. Battery weighs approximately 40-50 lbs. Set aside in a safe location away from the work area.
   ⚠Lift with proper technique to avoid back injury. Battery is heavy and awkward to handle
5. 5

   Disconnect cable from power distribution box
   Locate the power distribution box (fuse box) on the driver's side of the engine bay. Remove the cover. Identify where the positive cable connects to the distribution box. Using an 8mm socket, remove the bolt securing the positive cable terminal to the distribution box. Carefully pull the cable terminal free.
6. 6

   Disconnect cable from starter motor
   From underneath the vehicle or through the wheel well, locate the starter motor on the passenger side of the engine. The positive battery cable connects to the starter solenoid terminal. Using a 13mm socket, remove the nut securing the positive cable to the starter. Note the routing of the cable for reinstallation.
   ℹ️You may need to turn the front wheels fully to one side for better access through the wheel well
7. 7

   Remove cable from vehicle
   Trace the positive cable route from the battery tray to the starter, noting any clips or routing guides. Release the cable from all retaining clips and carefully remove it from the vehicle. Inspect the cable routing path for any damage or debris.
8. 8

   Clean battery tray and terminals
   While the battery is out, inspect the battery tray for corrosion. Clean any corrosion with a wire brush and baking soda solution if needed. Clean the battery posts and cable terminals with a battery post cleaner to ensure good electrical contact.
9. 9

   Route new positive cable
   Route the new positive battery cable along the same path as the old cable, ensuring it follows the factory routing. Secure the cable in all original clips and routing guides. Ensure the cable does not contact sharp edges, hot surfaces, or moving components.
10. 10

    Connect cable to starter motor
    Connect the positive cable terminal to the starter solenoid stud. Install the retaining nut and tighten securely with a 13mm socket. Ensure the connection is tight and the terminal cannot rotate on the stud.
11. 11

    Connect cable to power distribution box
    Connect the positive cable terminal to the appropriate stud on the power distribution box. Install the retaining bolt and tighten to specification using an 8mm socket and torque wrench. Reinstall the power distribution box cover.
12. 12

    Reinstall battery
    Carefully lower the battery back into the battery tray, ensuring it seats properly. Install the battery hold-down bracket and tighten the hold-down bolt to specification using a 13mm socket and torque wrench.
    Torque spec

    Battery Hold-Down Bolt12 Nm (9 lb-ft)
13. 13

    Connect positive battery terminal
    Place the positive (red) cable terminal onto the positive battery post. Ensure it is fully seated on the post. Tighten the terminal bolt to specification using a 10mm socket and torque wrench. Apply dielectric grease or terminal protector spray if desired.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
14. 14

    Connect negative battery terminal
    Place the negative (black) cable terminal onto the negative battery post. Ensure it is fully seated on the post. Tighten the terminal bolt to specification using a 10mm socket and torque wrench.
    ℹ️Connecting the negative terminal completes the circuit and restores power to the vehicle
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Verify all cable connections are tight and properly torqued
2. Ensure the positive cable is properly routed and secured in all factory clips
3. Confirm the battery hold-down is secure and the battery cannot move
4. Close the hood

Verification

• Turn the ignition to the ON position and verify all dashboard warning lights illuminate normally
• Start the engine and verify it cranks and starts normally without hesitation
• Check that all electrical accessories function properly (lights, radio, windows, etc.)
• Verify no warning lights remain illuminated after startup
• Inspect all connections for signs of arcing, heat, or loose terminals
• Reset the clock and radio presets as needed

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