Battery

This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the 12V battery in a 2011-2014 Ford F-150 with 5.0L Coyote V8 engine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• 12V automotive battery (Group 65) × 1 — BXT-65-650 or equivalent 650+ CCA
• Battery terminal grease or anti-corrosion pads × 1 — Use dielectric grease

Preparation

1. Ensure the vehicle is parked on level ground with the engine off and keys removed
2. Turn off all electrical accessories including lights, radio, and climate control
3. If using a memory saver, connect it to the OBD-II port or cigarette lighter before disconnecting battery
4. Open hood and locate the battery on the driver side of the engine bay

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect negative battery cable
   Using a 10mm socket, loosen the bolt on the negative (-) battery terminal. Remove the cable from the battery post and position it away from the battery to prevent accidental contact. The negative terminal is marked with a minus (-) sign and typically has a black cable.
   Torque spec

   Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
2. 2

   Disconnect positive battery cable
   Using a 10mm socket, loosen the bolt on the positive (+) battery terminal. Remove the cable from the battery post. The positive terminal is marked with a plus (+) sign and typically has a red cable or cover.
   Torque spec

   Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
3. 3

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

   Battery Hold-Down Bolt8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
4. 4

   Remove old battery
   Carefully lift the battery straight up and out of the battery tray. Battery weighs approximately 40-50 lbs. Keep battery level during removal to prevent acid leakage. Inspect battery tray for corrosion or damage.
   ⚠Battery is heavy and contains sulfuric acid - lift with proper technique and avoid tipping
5. 5

   Clean battery tray and terminals
   Inspect the battery tray for corrosion, acid residue, or debris. Clean with a mixture of baking soda and water if corrosion is present, then rinse with clean water and dry thoroughly. Use a battery terminal cleaner or wire brush to clean the cable terminals until bright metal is visible.
   ℹ️Neutralize any battery acid with baking soda solution before cleaning
6. 6

   Install new battery
   Place the new battery into the battery tray, ensuring it is oriented correctly with positive and negative terminals matching the cable positions. Battery should sit flush in the tray with no gaps or movement.
   ⚠Verify correct battery orientation before proceeding - reversed polarity can cause severe electrical damage
7. 7

   Install battery hold-down bracket
   Position the battery hold-down bracket over the battery base. Install the hold-down bolt and tighten to specification using a torque wrench. Ensure battery is secure with no movement.
   Torque spec

   Battery Hold-Down Bolt8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
8. 8

   Connect positive battery cable
   Place the positive (+) cable terminal onto the positive battery post. Apply battery terminal grease or install anti-corrosion pad if desired. Install the terminal bolt and tighten to specification using a torque wrench. Do not overtighten.
   ⚠Overtightening can crack the battery post - use torque wrench and specified value
   Torque spec

   Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Connect negative battery cable
   Place the negative (-) cable terminal onto the negative battery post. Apply battery terminal grease or install anti-corrosion pad if desired. Install the terminal bolt and tighten to specification using a torque wrench. Do not overtighten.
   ℹ️You may see a small spark when connecting the negative terminal - this is normal as modules power up
   Torque spec

   Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Remove memory saver if used
2. Verify both battery terminals are tight and secure
3. Apply terminal protector spray if desired

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position and verify dash lights illuminate properly
• Start the engine and verify it cranks normally without hesitation
• Check that alternator is charging - battery voltage should be 13.5-14.5V with engine running
• Test power windows, locks, and other accessories for proper operation
• Reset clock and radio presets as needed
• Perform one-touch window relearn procedure: roll each window fully down, then fully up and hold switch for 2 seconds
• Check for any warning lights or diagnostic codes related to battery disconnection

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

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