how to diagnose battery drain issue on Ford F-150 13th Generation (2015-2020)

Solution

1. Preparation

• Tools Required: Multimeter, ammeter, socket set, OBD-II scanner.
• Ensure the vehicle is parked in a safe location and the engine is off. Disconnect the negative battery terminal.

2. Address Parasitic Draw

• Sub-step 1: If a circuit is identified as the source of the draw, refer to the vehicle’s wiring diagram to trace the circuit.
• Sub-step 2: Inspect all components on the circuit for faults. Common culprits include the radio, alarm system, or lights that may remain on.
• Sub-step 3: Repair or replace any malfunctioning components as necessary.

3. Clean Battery Terminals

• Sub-step 1: Remove the battery cables (negative first, then positive).
• Sub-step 2: Clean the terminals and cable ends with a wire brush to remove corrosion.
• Sub-step 3: Reconnect the battery cables (positive first, then negative) and ensure they are tight.

4. Replace Battery (if necessary)

• Sub-step 1: If the battery is old or has a low capacity, replace it with a new one.
• Sub-step 2: Install the new battery, ensuring correct polarity and secure connections.