Battery Terminal

This procedure covers cleaning or replacing battery terminals on a 2015-2020 Ford F-150 with 3.5L EcoBoost engine to restore proper electrical connections.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Battery terminal connector (positive) × 1 — Use OEM specification if replacing
• Battery terminal connector (negative) × 1 — Use OEM specification if replacing
• Battery terminal protective covers × 2 — Use OEM specification if replacing

Preparation

1. Ensure vehicle is parked on level ground with engine off and keys removed
2. Allow engine to cool if recently running
3. Open hood and prop securely
4. Locate battery in engine compartment on right side (passenger side)
5. Inspect battery and terminals for damage or excessive corrosion

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect negative battery terminal
   Using 8mm socket, loosen the negative (black) terminal bolt. Do not remove bolt completely, just loosen until terminal can be lifted off. Use battery terminal puller if terminal is stuck. Move cable away from battery post to prevent accidental contact.
   Torque spec

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

   Disconnect positive battery terminal
   Using 8mm socket, loosen the positive (red) terminal bolt. Do not remove bolt completely, just loosen until terminal can be lifted off. Move cable away from battery post and ensure it does not contact any metal surfaces.
   Torque spec

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

   Inspect terminals and cables
   Examine both terminals and battery posts for corrosion, cracks, or damage. Check cable insulation for cracking or fraying. If terminals are severely corroded or damaged, replacement is recommended over cleaning.
4. 4

   Clean battery posts
   Use wire brush or battery terminal cleaning tool to clean both battery posts until bare metal is visible. Remove all corrosion, oxidation, and buildup. If heavy corrosion is present, apply baking soda and water solution to neutralize acid, then scrub and rinse with clean water. Dry thoroughly with shop towel.
5. 5

   Clean or replace terminal connectors
   If cleaning: Use wire brush to clean inside of terminal clamps until bare metal is visible. Clean terminal bolt threads. If replacing: Remove old terminals by cutting cables if crimped, or removing fasteners if bolted. Install new terminals per manufacturer instructions, ensuring proper cable routing and strain relief.
6. 6

   Reconnect positive battery terminal
   Place positive (red) terminal onto positive battery post. Ensure terminal is fully seated and oriented correctly for cable routing. Tighten terminal bolt to specification using torque wrench. Terminal should be snug and not rotate on post.
   Torque spec

   Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
7. 7

   Reconnect negative battery terminal
   Place negative (black) terminal onto negative battery post. Ensure terminal is fully seated and oriented correctly. Tighten terminal bolt to specification using torque wrench. Terminal should be snug and not rotate on post.
   Torque spec

   Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
8. 8

   Apply protective coating and reinstall covers
   Apply thin layer of dielectric grease to exposed portions of terminals and battery posts to prevent future corrosion. Reinstall protective terminal covers (red on positive, black on negative).

Reassembly

1. Ensure both terminals are tightened to proper specification and cannot rotate on battery posts
2. Verify terminal protective covers are properly installed
3. Confirm no tools or parts are left in engine compartment

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position (do not start) and verify dashboard lights illuminate normally
• Start engine and verify normal cranking and starting
• Check for any warning lights on instrument cluster related to electrical system
• Test electrical accessories (lights, radio, windows) for proper operation
• Perform power window re-initialization if needed: lower window fully, hold switch down for 2 seconds, raise window fully, hold switch up for 2 seconds

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

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