2020 Ford Explorer St Battery Replacement – Restore Power
The 2020 Ford Explorer ST requires a specific AGM battery tucked away under the front passenger seat rather than the engine bay. Replacing it involves removing seat trim, handling heavy components in tight spaces, and performing a mandatory Battery Management System (BMS) reset to protect your alternator. This guide provides the exact steps to complete the swap safely and maintain your vehicle’s advanced electronics.
You rely on your Explorer ST’s twin-turbo V6 to deliver exhilarating power every time you hit the push-button start. It is frustrating when a sluggish crank or flickering infotainment screen signals that your factory power cell is finally giving up the ghost.
Performing a 2020 ford explorer st battery replacement is a task any confident DIYer can handle with the right tools and a bit of patience. By following this expert walkthrough, you will save significant labor costs while ensuring your vehicle’s sophisticated charging system remains perfectly calibrated.
In the following sections, we will dive into the specific battery requirements for the ST trim, the tools you will need, and the hidden “handshake” procedure to reset your car’s computer. Let’s get your performance SUV back to peak reliability.
Understanding the 2020 ford explorer st battery replacement Requirements
The sixth-generation Ford Explorer, specifically the ST trim, is a rolling computer with massive electrical demands. From the 12.1-inch vertical touchscreen to the heated and cooled massaging seats, the electrical load is constant and heavy.
Unlike older vehicles that used standard flooded lead-acid batteries, the 2020 Explorer ST utilizes Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) technology. These batteries are designed to handle deep cycles and the frequent restarts associated with the Auto Start-Stop feature.
When looking for a replacement, you must match the Group Size H6 (48) or H7 (94R) depending on your specific build date and options. Most ST models utilize the larger H7 size to provide the high Cold Cranking Amps (CCA) needed for the 3.0L EcoBoost engine.
Why AGM Matters for Your ST
AGM batteries are spill-proof and highly resistant to vibration, which is essential since the battery is located inside the cabin. They also charge faster than traditional batteries, allowing the alternator to work more efficiently during short commutes.
Installing a standard flooded battery in an ST will likely lead to premature failure. The vehicle’s charging profile is specifically tuned for the internal resistance of an AGM unit, so do not try to cut costs here.
Always check the CCA rating on your current battery before purchasing a new one. You want a replacement that meets or exceeds the original equipment (OE) specs, typically around 800 to 850 CCA for the ST trim.
Essential Tools and Safety Gear for the Job
Before you begin the 2020 ford explorer st battery replacement, gather your tools to avoid getting stuck halfway through with the passenger seat disassembled. This job requires a mix of standard sockets and a few specialized items.
You will primarily need a 10mm deep socket for the battery terminals and the hold-down bracket. A socket extension (at least 6 inches) is highly recommended because the hold-down bolt is recessed deep within the battery tray.
A trim removal tool or a flathead screwdriver wrapped in a cloth is necessary to pop off the plastic covers on the seat tracks. These plastic clips can be brittle, so a dedicated plastic tool is much safer for your interior.
- 10mm Socket and Ratchet: For terminals and brackets.
- T30 Torx Bit: Some trim pieces may use Torx fasteners.
- Battery Carrier or Strap: The H7 battery weighs nearly 50 pounds; a handle makes removal much easier.
- Memory Saver: An OBDII plug-in device that maintains 12V power to save your radio presets and seat memory.
- Wire Brush: To clean any oxidation off the cable connectors.
Safety should be your top priority when working in the cabin. Ensure the vehicle is in Park, the parking brake is engaged, and the ignition is completely off for at least ten minutes before starting.
Wear nitrile gloves to protect your hands from residual battery acid and sharp metal edges under the seat. Even though AGM batteries are sealed, the terminals can still harbor corrosive lead-sulfate buildup.
Step-by-Step Guide: Accessing the Hidden Battery
The most surprising part of the 2020 ford explorer st battery replacement process is where the battery lives. You won’t find it under the hood; it is located underneath the front passenger seat.
Start by sliding the passenger seat all the way forward and tilting the backrest toward the dashboard. This creates the maximum amount of space to work from the rear passenger door area.
Locate the plastic access panel on the floor behind the passenger seat. You will need to pull back the carpeting slightly to reveal the battery cover, which is held in place by plastic clips or simple friction.
Removing the Old Battery
- Disconnect the Negative Terminal: Always remove the black (negative) cable first using your 10mm socket. This prevents accidental shorts if your wrench touches the vehicle frame while working on the positive side.
- Disconnect the Positive Terminal: Remove the red (positive) cable and tuck it to the side so it cannot spring back and touch the post.
- Unfasten the Hold-Down Bracket: Use your extension to reach the 10mm bolt at the base of the battery. Remove the bracket entirely.
- Vent Tube Removal: Since the battery is in the cabin, it has a small plastic vent tube. Gently pull this tube out of the side of the battery.
- The Heavy Lift: Carefully lift the battery out of the tray. Be mindful of your back, as the angle is awkward while reaching into the vehicle.
Once the battery is out, take a moment to inspect the battery tray for any debris or moisture. Use a vacuum to clean out any dust that has accumulated over the years.
Check the battery cables for any signs of fraying or “green crust” corrosion. If you see corrosion, mix a small amount of baking soda and water to neutralize it, then scrub it clean with your wire brush.
Installing the New Power Cell
Lower your new AGM battery into the tray, ensuring the positive and negative posts are oriented exactly like the old one. If the battery is backwards, the cables will not reach, and you risk a catastrophic electrical surge.
Reinstall the hold-down bracket and tighten the 10mm bolt until the battery is snug. You should not be able to wiggle the battery at all; a loose battery will suffer from internal plate damage over time.
Connect the positive terminal first, followed by the negative terminal. Tighten the nuts until the connectors are firm, but do not over-tighten them, as you can crack the lead battery posts.
Don’t forget to reconnect the vent tube. This tube directs any trace amounts of hydrogen gas outside the vehicle, which is a critical safety feature for batteries located inside the passenger compartment.
Before putting the carpet and trim back, start the vehicle to ensure the connection is solid. If the car starts promptly and there are no immediate warning lights, you can proceed to reassemble the interior.
The Critical Step: Performing a Battery Management System (BMS) Reset
Modern Fords use a Battery Management System to track the age and health of the battery. As a battery gets older, the alternator increases its output to compensate for the battery’s declining ability to hold a charge.
If you complete a 2020 ford explorer st battery replacement without resetting the BMS, the car will think the old, weak battery is still installed. This results in the alternator “overcharging” your brand-new battery, significantly shortening its lifespan.
The most professional way to do this is using a diagnostic tool like FORScan or a high-end OBDII scanner. However, there is a manual “secret” sequence you can perform if you do not have specialized software.
The Manual BMS Reset Procedure
- Get into the driver’s seat and close all doors.
- Switch the ignition to ON (Position II) but do not start the engine.
- Flash the high beams five times.
- Press and release the brake pedal three times.
- Wait about 10 seconds. The battery light on the instrument cluster should flash three times, confirming the reset was successful.
If the battery light does not flash, turn the car off and try the sequence again, ensuring you perform the steps quickly and rhythmically. This reset tells the computer to treat the battery as “0 days old.”
Failure to perform this reset can also cause your Auto Start-Stop system to remain disabled. The computer will keep the engine running at stoplights because it believes the battery doesn’t have enough “reserve capacity” to restart the vehicle.
Choosing the Right Replacement: AGM vs. Lead-Acid
When shopping for a 2020 ford explorer st battery replacement, you will see a wide range of prices. It is tempting to buy a cheaper flooded lead-acid battery, but this is a mistake for the ST trim.
The Explorer ST uses Smart Charging technology. The alternator doesn’t just run at a constant voltage; it fluctuates based on engine load and battery temperature. AGM batteries are designed to soak up these high-amperage bursts.
Look for brands with a high Reserve Capacity (RC). This measure tells you how long the battery can power essential systems if the alternator fails. For an ST, you want an RC of at least 140 minutes. Top-tier brands like Odyssey, NorthStar, or the Ford Motorcraft Tested Tough MAX are excellent choices. If you live in a very cold climate, prioritize a battery with the highest possible CCA to ensure reliable winter starts.
Always check the manufacturing date sticker on the side of the battery. Try to buy a unit that was manufactured within the last 3-6 months to ensure you are getting a fresh cell with no internal discharge.
Troubleshooting Common Issues After Installation
Sometimes, even a perfect 2020 ford explorer st battery replacement can result in a few “ghost” issues. Modern electronics are sensitive to the momentary loss of voltage during the swap.
If your power windows no longer “one-touch” up or down, they simply need to be relearned. Hold the window switch in the “up” position for two seconds after the window closes, then repeat for the “down” position.
You might also see a “Deep Sleep Mode” notification on your FordPass app. This usually clears itself after a few drive cycles once the BMS recognizes the new state of charge and the battery reaches 100%.
If the vehicle feels like it is idling roughly, the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) may have cleared its “idle trim” values. Drive the car for about 10-15 miles in mixed city and highway conditions to let the computer relearn its optimal settings.
When to Call a Professional
If you see a “Service Charging System” message immediately after the swap, double-check your terminal tightness. A loose ground wire is the most common cause of charging errors.
In rare cases, the Battery Current Sensor (the small plastic ring on the negative cable) can be damaged during removal. If this sensor fails, the BMS cannot monitor the battery, and you will need a licensed technician to diagnose the circuit.
If you notice acid leaks or a “rotten egg” smell after installation, shut the vehicle off immediately. This indicates a defective battery or a runaway alternator that is dangerously overcharging the system.
Frequently Asked Questions About 2020 ford explorer st battery replacement
Where is the battery located in a 2020 Ford Explorer ST?
The battery is located inside the cabin, underneath the front passenger seat. To access it, you must slide the seat forward and remove a plastic access panel and a section of carpeting from the rear floorboard area.
Do I really need to reset the BMS after a battery change?
Yes, resetting the Battery Management System (BMS) is mandatory. It ensures the alternator uses the correct charging profile for a new battery, preventing overcharging and extending the life of your new investment.
Can I jump-start my Explorer ST from the engine bay?
Yes, even though the battery is under the seat, Ford provides remote jump-start posts under the hood. Look for a red plastic cap (positive) and a bare metal post on the strut tower (negative) for jump-starting or charging.
How long does the factory battery typically last?
Most factory AGM batteries in the 2020 Explorer ST last between 3 and 5 years. Extreme heat, frequent short trips, and high electrical accessory usage can shorten this lifespan significantly.
What is the best battery for the 2020 Ford Explorer ST?
The best replacement is a Group 94R (H7) AGM battery with at least 800 Cold Cranking Amps. Brands like Motorcraft, Interstate, and Odyssey are highly recommended for their durability and fitment.
Summary and Final Tips
Completing a 2020 ford explorer st battery replacement is a satisfying DIY project that keeps your performance SUV running at its best. By choosing a high-quality AGM battery and performing the BMS reset, you ensure your vehicle’s electronics remain healthy for years to come.
Remember to always work safely, handle the heavy battery with care, and double-check your terminal connections. If you ever feel unsure about the interior disassembly or the software reset, don’t hesitate to consult a local mechanic or your Ford dealer.
Maintaining your battery is one of the simplest ways to prevent being stranded. Keep those terminals clean, and your Explorer ST will be ready for your next adventure, whether it’s a grocery run or a cross-country road trip. Stay safe and stay powered up!
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