why does my Ford F-150 13th Generation (2015-2020) battery die when parked for a few days?

Solution

1. Preparation

• Gather tools and parts: multimeter, ammeter, socket set, and battery cleaner.
• Ensure the vehicle is parked on a flat surface and the ignition is off.
• Safety Warning: Disconnect the battery before working on electrical systems.

2. Battery Condition Assessment

• Sub-step 1: Measure the voltage using a multimeter. If the voltage is below 12.4 volts, consider charging or replacing the battery.
• Sub-step 2: Clean any corrosion on battery terminals with a battery cleaner and a wire brush.
• Sub-step 3: Tighten any loose connections to ensure good electrical contact.

3. Parasitic Draw Resolution

• Sub-step 1: Disconnect the negative battery cable and connect the ammeter.
• Sub-step 2: Monitor the current draw. If it exceeds 50 milliamps, proceed to the next step.
• Sub-step 3: Identify the components causing excess draw by removing fuses one at a time until the draw drops below the acceptable level.
• Sub-step 4: Repair or replace any faulty components, such as a malfunctioning relay or aftermarket accessory.