This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the negative battery cable on a 2015-2020 Ford F-150 with 5.0L Coyote V8 engine, including all ground connections to the frame and engine block.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Negative battery cable assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Turn ignition to OFF position and remove key
3. Open hood and secure with prop rod
4. Locate battery in engine compartment on driver side
5. Inspect existing cable routing and ground connection points for reference during installation
6. Take a photo of cable routing if available for reference

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove negative battery terminal connection
   Using an 8mm wrench or socket, loosen the negative battery terminal bolt. Remove the bolt completely and carefully lift the cable terminal off the battery post. Position the cable away from the battery to prevent accidental contact.
   Torque spec

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

   Locate and access engine block ground connection
   Trace the negative cable from the battery to the engine block. The primary ground connection is typically located on the passenger side of the engine block near the starter motor area. Clear any components or wiring harnesses that may obstruct access.
3. 3

   Remove engine block ground bolt
   Using a 13mm socket and extension, remove the ground cable bolt securing the negative cable lug to the engine block. Note the orientation of the cable lug and any washers or additional ground straps attached at this location.
   Torque spec

   Ground Cable Bolt17 Nm (13 lb-ft)
4. 4

   Locate and remove frame ground connection
   Follow the negative cable to the frame ground point, typically located on the driver side frame rail near the battery tray. Remove the ground strap bolt securing the cable to the frame using a 10mm or 13mm socket as applicable.
   Torque spec

   Ground Strap Bolt16 Nm (12 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Remove cable from any mounting brackets
   Identify any cable routing brackets or clips securing the negative cable along its path. Carefully release or unbolt these brackets to free the cable. Note the exact routing for proper reinstallation.
6. 6

   Remove old negative battery cable
   Once all connections and brackets are disconnected, carefully remove the negative battery cable assembly from the vehicle. Inspect the old cable for damage, corrosion, or wear that necessitated replacement.
7. 7

   Clean all ground contact surfaces
   Using a wire brush, thoroughly clean the engine block ground mounting surface, frame ground mounting surface, and battery terminal post. Remove all corrosion, paint, or oxidation to ensure metal-to-metal contact. Clean the mounting bolt threads as well.
8. 8

   Route new negative battery cable
   Position the new negative battery cable assembly following the original routing path. Ensure the cable is not kinked, stretched, or routed near hot exhaust components or sharp edges. Verify sufficient slack for engine movement.
9. 9

   Install frame ground connection
   Attach the cable lug to the frame ground point. Ensure the mating surface is clean and the lug is properly seated. Install and tighten the ground strap bolt to specification using a torque wrench.
   Torque spec

   Ground Strap Bolt16 Nm (12 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Install engine block ground connection
    Position the cable lug onto the cleaned engine block ground stud or mounting point. Ensure proper orientation and that any additional ground straps are layered correctly. Install and torque the ground cable bolt to specification.
    Torque spec

    Ground Cable Bolt17 Nm (13 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Secure cable in mounting brackets
    Reinstall any cable routing brackets or clips removed during disassembly. Ensure the cable is properly supported and will not chafe against other components or experience excessive movement.
12. 12

    Connect negative terminal to battery
    Clean the battery negative post with a wire brush if needed. Position the cable terminal onto the negative battery post, ensuring it is fully seated. Install the terminal bolt and tighten to specification using a torque wrench. Apply dielectric grease to the connection if desired.
    ⚠Do not overtighten battery terminal bolt as this can damage the terminal or battery post
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Verify all ground connections are tight and free of corrosion
2. Ensure cable routing does not interfere with moving engine components or accessory drive belt
3. Confirm battery hold-down is properly secured if it was disturbed during the procedure

Verification

• Check that all electrical systems function normally (lights, radio, gauges, etc.)
• Verify engine cranks and starts without hesitation
• Confirm no battery warning lights are illuminated on instrument cluster
• Inspect all ground connections for tightness and proper contact
• Test high-draw electrical components like power windows and blower motor to ensure proper grounding
• Allow engine to reach operating temperature and verify charging system voltage is 13.5-14.5 volts

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