This procedure covers cleaning or replacing corroded or damaged battery terminals on a 2015-2020 Ford F-150 with the 5.0L Coyote V8 engine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Battery terminal (positive or negative as needed) × 1 — Motorcraft BXT-series or OEM replacement
• Battery terminal bolt × 1 — Use OEM specification if damaged

Preparation

1. Ensure the engine is off and key is removed from the ignition
2. Open the hood and secure with the prop rod
3. Locate the battery in the engine compartment on the passenger side
4. Identify which terminal needs service (positive has red cover, negative is bare metal)

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect negative battery terminal
   Using a 10mm wrench or socket, loosen the bolt on the negative battery terminal (marked with - symbol). Remove the terminal from the battery post and position it away from the battery to prevent accidental contact. Do not allow the terminal to touch any metal surfaces.
2. 2

   Disconnect positive battery terminal
   Lift or remove the red protective cover from the positive terminal. Using a 10mm wrench or socket, loosen the bolt on the positive battery terminal (marked with + symbol). Remove the terminal from the battery post and position it away from the battery.
3. 3

   Inspect terminals and cables
   Examine both battery terminals and cable ends for corrosion, cracks, fraying, or damage. Check that the terminal clamps are not cracked or broken. If terminals are damaged beyond cleaning, they must be replaced. Inspect battery posts for corrosion or damage.
4. 4

   Clean battery posts and terminals
   Use a battery terminal cleaning tool or wire brush to clean corrosion from the battery posts and the inside of the terminal clamps. If heavy corrosion is present, apply a baking soda and water solution to neutralize acid, then scrub clean. Ensure all surfaces are bright and free of corrosion for proper electrical contact. Wipe dry with a clean cloth.
5. 5

   Replace terminal if necessary
   If the terminal is damaged or excessively corroded, cut the old terminal from the cable using cable cutters. Strip approximately 1/2 inch of insulation from the cable end. Insert the cable into the new replacement terminal and secure according to the terminal type (crimp or bolt-on style). Ensure the connection is tight and secure.
6. 6

   Reconnect positive battery terminal
   Place the positive terminal onto the positive battery post. Ensure it is fully seated on the post. Install the terminal bolt and tighten to the specified torque. Do not overtighten as this can damage the terminal or battery post. Replace the red protective cover over the positive terminal.
   Torque spec

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

   Reconnect negative battery terminal
   Place the negative terminal onto the negative battery post. Ensure it is fully seated on the post. Install the terminal bolt and tighten to the specified torque. Do not overtighten.
   Torque spec

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

   Apply terminal protection
   Apply a light coating of dielectric grease or battery terminal protection spray to both terminals to help prevent future corrosion. Do not apply excessive amounts that could interfere with electrical connections.

Reassembly

1. Ensure both terminals are tight and cannot rotate on the battery posts
2. Verify the positive terminal protective cover is properly installed
3. Clean any tools or the battery tray area if corrosion or debris is present

Verification

• Attempt to start the vehicle to verify proper electrical connection
• Check that all electrical systems function normally (lights, radio, gauges)
• Inspect terminals after starting to ensure they did not loosen
• Verify no corrosion is visible and terminals are secure
• Reset clock and radio presets as needed

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