2020 Ford Explorer St Battery – Essential Replacement And Maintenance
The 2020 Ford Explorer ST requires a high-performance AGM battery to support its advanced electronics and Auto Start-Stop technology. This guide provides the exact specifications, step-by-step replacement instructions, and the critical Battery Management System reset procedure to keep your SUV running at peak performance.
You rely on your Ford Explorer ST for more than just a commute. Whether you are carving through mountain passes or hauling the family on a cross-country road trip, the performance of your 2020 ford explorer st battery is the heartbeat of your vehicle’s electrical system.
When that battery begins to fade, it does more than just make starting difficult. It can cause glitchy infotainment screens, sluggish gear shifts, and the frustrating deactivation of your favorite tech features. This guide will help you navigate the replacement process with confidence.
We will walk through the specific technical requirements, the tools you need to get the job done, and the professional “secrets” that ensure your new battery lasts for years. Let’s get your Explorer ST back to its high-performance roots.
Understanding Your 2020 ford explorer st battery Requirements
The Ford Explorer ST is a powerhouse, and its electrical needs are equally demanding. Unlike older vehicles that used simple flooded lead-acid batteries, this SUV utilizes an Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) battery. AGM batteries are designed to handle frequent engine restarts and the high accessory load of a modern Ford.
Most 2020 Explorer ST models come equipped with a Group Size 48 (H6) or Group Size 94R (H7) battery. You must verify your specific build, but the H6 is the most common standard. Using the wrong size or chemistry can lead to premature failure or even damage to the alternator.
When selecting a 2020 ford explorer st battery, look for a high Cold Cranking Amps (CCA) rating. A rating of 760 to 800 CCA is typically recommended to ensure reliable starts in freezing temperatures. Since the ST is often used for performance driving, a vibration-resistant AGM design is non-negotiable.
The Role of the AGM Design
AGM batteries use a fiberglass mat to soak up the electrolyte. This makes them spill-proof and much more resistant to the heat generated in the Explorer’s engine bay. They also recharge faster than standard batteries, which is vital for the Auto Start-Stop system.
Cold Cranking Amps vs. Reserve Capacity
CCA measures the battery’s ability to start the engine in the cold. Reserve Capacity (RC) measures how long the battery can run your lights and electronics if the alternator fails. For an ST owner, high ratings in both categories provide peace of mind during off-road excursions.
Warning Signs Your Battery Is Failing
Modern vehicles rarely give you the classic “slow crank” warning until the battery is almost completely dead. Instead, the 2020 Explorer ST will often show subtle electronic symptoms first. One of the earliest signs is the “Auto Start-Stop” feature stopping work entirely.
You might also notice that your interior lights flicker slightly when the engine is idling. If the SYNC 3 infotainment system takes longer than usual to boot up or resets randomly, your battery voltage may be dropping below the critical threshold during startup.
If you see a “Battery Saver System” message on your dashboard, take action immediately. This means the vehicle is actively shutting down non-essential systems to preserve enough power to start the engine. Ignoring this usually leads to a no-start condition within a few days.
- Slow Engine Crank: The engine takes longer to turn over than usual.
- Dim Headlights: Noticeable dimming when the vehicle is at a stoplight.
- Corrosion: White, ashy buildup on the battery terminals.
- Old Age: Most OEM batteries in the Explorer ST last 3 to 5 years.
Tools You Need for a Professional Replacement
Replacing the battery in a 2020 Explorer ST is a straightforward DIY task, but the battery’s location requires a few specific tools. The battery is located on the passenger side of the engine bay, tucked slightly under a plastic cowl. Having the right tools prevents broken plastic clips.
You will need a 10mm socket or wrench for the terminal clamps. A long extension for your ratchet is also helpful for reaching the battery hold-down bolt, which is located at the base of the battery. This bolt ensures the battery doesn’t bounce around during spirited driving.
I also recommend a small flat-head screwdriver or a trim removal tool. These help you gently pop the plastic clips on the cowl cover without snapping them. Finally, keep some terminal cleaner and a wire brush handy to prep the cable ends for the new battery.
- 10mm Socket/Wrench: For the negative and positive terminals.
- 8mm Socket: Sometimes used for the hold-down bracket or cowl pieces.
- Socket Extension: At least 6 inches to reach the bottom bracket.
- Safety Glasses and Gloves: To protect against acid and sharp metal.
- BMS Reset Tool: An OBDII scan tool or a specific manual sequence.
Step-by-Step Installation Process
Safety is your first priority. Ensure the engine is off, the parking brake is set, and you are working in a well-ventilated area. Open the hood and locate the battery cover on the passenger side near the firewall.
Remove the plastic push-pins holding the cowl cover in place. Carefully lift the cover to expose the battery. Always disconnect the negative (black) terminal first. This prevents accidental sparks if your wrench touches a metal part of the car while loosening the positive side.
Once the terminals are clear, unscrew the hold-down bolt at the base. The 2020 ford explorer st battery is heavy, weighing roughly 40 to 50 pounds. Lift it straight up using the built-in handle. Clean the battery tray of any debris or corrosion before sliding the new unit into place.
Installing the New Battery
Drop the new battery into the tray, ensuring the positive and negative posts are in the correct orientation. Reinstall the hold-down bracket and tighten it until the battery is snug and immobile. Do not over-tighten, as you could crack the plastic battery casing.
Connecting the Terminals
Connect the positive (red) terminal first, then the negative. Tighten the 10mm nuts until the clamps cannot be moved by hand. Reattach the plastic cowl cover and secure the push-pins. You are now ready for the most important part: the system reset.
Why the Battery Management System (BMS) Reset Matters
Many DIYers skip this step, but it is mandatory for the 2020 Explorer ST. Your vehicle has a Battery Management System (BMS) that tracks the age and health of the battery. As a battery gets older, the alternator changes its charging profile to compensate for the wear.
If you install a new battery without resetting the BMS, the car will continue to charge it as if it were an old, failing battery. This leads to overcharging, which can cook your brand-new battery and significantly shorten its lifespan. It can also cause the Auto Start-Stop to remain disabled.
You can reset this using a high-end OBDII scan tool or the popular FORScan software. However, there is a manual “handshake” method you can perform using the controls inside the cabin. This tells the computer to start a fresh “days in service” counter for the new power cell.
The Manual BMS Reset Sequence
Get in the driver’s seat and close the doors. Turn the ignition to the “On” position (engine off). Flash your high beams five times, then press and release the brake pedal three times. Within 10 seconds, the battery icon on the dash should flash, confirming the reset.
Maximizing Battery Life in Extreme Conditions
The Explorer ST is a favorite for those who live in varying climates. Heat is actually a bigger killer of batteries than cold. If you live in a desert climate, the under-hood temperatures can degrade the internal chemistry of your AGM battery rapidly. Ensure the heat shield is properly reinstalled.
For those who use their ST for camping or off-roading, avoid leaving the ignition in the “Accessory” mode for long periods. The large infotainment screen and internal fans pull a significant amount of current. If you frequently run accessories with the engine off, consider a portable power station.
If you plan to leave your vehicle parked for more than two weeks, use a battery maintainer. Modern Fords have a “parasitic draw” because they stay connected to cellular networks for remote start features. A smart charger will keep the voltage stable without overcharging the cells.
- Keep it Clean: Dust and moisture can create a “bridge” that slowly drains power.
- Check Connections: Ensure terminals remain tight after driving on rough trails.
- Drive Regularly: Short trips don’t give the alternator enough time to fully charge an AGM.
Frequently Asked Questions About 2020 ford explorer st battery
How long does a 2020 ford explorer st battery usually last?
On average, the original equipment battery lasts between 3 and 5 years. Factors like extreme heat, frequent short trips, and the use of the Auto Start-Stop system can reduce this lifespan toward the lower end of that range.
Can I use a standard Lead-Acid battery instead of an AGM?
It is strongly discouraged. The Explorer ST’s charging system is specifically calibrated for the internal resistance of an AGM battery. A standard battery will likely fail prematurely and may cause electronic malfunctions in the vehicle’s power management system.
What happens if I don’t reset the BMS?
If you don’t reset the BMS, the vehicle will likely undercharge or overcharge the new battery. This can result in the Auto Start-Stop system not functioning and can reduce the life of your new battery by as much as 50%.
Where is the battery located in the 2020 Explorer ST?
The battery is located in the engine compartment on the passenger side, near the base of the windshield. It is partially covered by a plastic cowl that must be removed for full access to the terminals and hold-down bracket.
Maintaining your 2020 ford explorer st battery is a vital part of owning a high-performance SUV. By choosing the right AGM unit, performing a clean installation, and ensuring the computer is reset, you guarantee that your Explorer stays ready for any adventure. Don’t let a weak battery hold back your twin-turbo V6—swap it out today and drive with confidence! Stay safe and stay powered!
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