2020 F-150 Battery Draining Fast? Here's How to Fix It

How to Fix Battery Issues on Your 2020 Ford F-150

This guide addresses battery-related problems specific to the 2020 Ford F-150. Many owners have encountered issues ranging from low battery warnings to complete battery failure. "Annoyingly I just bought a new battery and haven’t had an issue since. The factory batteries are JUNK," one owner shared, highlighting a common frustration with the original factory battery. This guide aims to provide you with the information needed to diagnose and potentially resolve these battery issues yourself.

Symptoms

Owners of the 2020 Ford F-150 have reported several symptoms related to battery issues. One common complaint is the appearance of a "low battery" warning message on the dashboard. This warning can appear even with a relatively new battery, causing confusion and concern.

Another reported symptom is a complete failure to start, with the vehicle exhibiting a "no start" condition. In some cases, the dash lights may illuminate briefly before going completely dead when attempting to start the engine. This can be accompanied by a slight noise from the starter, indicating that it's not receiving sufficient power. One owner detailed their experience: "It worked 100% normal for 2 days. This evening I went to start and I got lights on the dash for 8-10 seconds then all lights go dead and when I turn the key to start, there is a slight noise from the starter."

Auto start/stop malfunctions are also linked to battery health. Owners have noted that a failing battery can prevent the auto start/stop feature from functioning correctly. Replacing the battery has been reported to resolve this issue in some instances. This could be due to the system not having enough reliable power to restart.

Beyond the electrical warnings, some owners tie "behavior" or "probs" indirectly to the battery condition. This suggests that the computer systems in your truck, relying on stable voltage, may misbehave when the battery is weak. For instance, unexpected software glitches.

Most Likely Cause

Based on owner reports, the most likely cause of battery problems in the 2020 Ford F-150 is a failing or inadequate factory battery. Owners have described the original batteries as "junk," suggesting a higher-than-expected failure rate. It's important to note that the issue isn't necessarily about charging per se, but the ability of the battery to hold a charge and deliver the amperage needed to start and run all the electronics.

Another potential cause, especially for vehicles with the PowerBoost engine, is related to the auxiliary battery. These models have two batteries, and a problem with one can affect the other. The main battery might test fine individually, but if the auxiliary battery is weak, it can skew the overall system performance. As one owner advised, "If its a powerboost check the battery under the rear seat. It can skew battery tests if they don't disconnect both batteries and test them separately."

Finally, excessive draw from accessories is a less frequent, but possible cause. Some features, like proximity lights and dash cams with parking mode, can drain the battery if the vehicle sits for extended periods. This is especially true if the battery is already weakened.

How to Diagnose

Diagnosing battery issues in your truck requires a systematic approach. Here's a step-by-step process:

1. Visual Inspection: Begin by visually inspecting the battery terminals for corrosion. Clean any corrosion with a wire brush and a solution of baking soda and water. Ensure the terminals are securely tightened.

2. Voltage Test: Use a multimeter to check the battery voltage. A fully charged battery should read around 12.6 volts. A reading below 12.4 volts indicates a partially discharged battery.

3. Load Test: A load test simulates starting the engine to measure the battery's ability to deliver current under load. You can perform a load test using a dedicated battery load tester, available at most auto parts stores. Follow the instructions on the tester. A healthy battery should maintain a voltage above 9.6 volts during the load test.

4. Charging System Test: If the battery voltage is low, test the charging system. Start the engine and use a multimeter to measure the voltage at the battery terminals. The voltage should be between 13.5 and 14.5 volts, indicating that the alternator is charging the battery properly.

5. Parasitic Draw Test: If the battery drains quickly even when the vehicle is not in use, perform a parasitic draw test. This involves measuring the current draw from the battery with the ignition off. A normal parasitic draw should be less than 50 milliamps (0.05 amps). Higher draw indicates an electrical component is draining the battery. Consult a mechanic to diagnose and repair any excessive parasitic draw.

6. PowerBoost Battery Check: If your vehicle is a PowerBoost model, you need to test both batteries separately. Disconnect the batteries and use the above tests on each. This is especially important, as the auxillary battery is known to skew the main battery tests.

Tools Needed:

• Multimeter
• Wire brush
• Baking soda
• Water
• Battery load tester (optional)

Step-by-Step Fix

If the battery is determined to be the problem, replacing it is usually the most effective solution. Here's how:

1. Gather Your Tools and Parts: You'll need a new battery (check your owner's manual for the correct group size), a wrench set (usually 10mm or 13mm for the terminals and hold-down), battery terminal cleaner, and gloves.

2. Disconnect the Negative Terminal: Using a wrench, loosen the nut on the negative (-) battery terminal and carefully remove the cable. Tuck it away from the battery to prevent accidental contact.

3. Disconnect the Positive Terminal: Repeat the process for the positive (+) terminal. Be careful not to let the wrench touch any metal parts of the vehicle while connected to the positive terminal.

4. Remove the Battery Hold-Down: The battery is typically secured by a hold-down clamp or strap. Remove the hold-down using the appropriate wrench or socket.

5. Lift Out the Old Battery: Carefully lift the old battery out of the tray. Batteries are heavy, so use proper lifting techniques to avoid injury.

6. Clean the Battery Tray and Terminals: Clean the battery tray with a brush and remove any debris or corrosion. Clean the battery terminals with a battery terminal cleaner.

7. Install the New Battery: Place the new battery in the tray, ensuring it's oriented correctly.

8. Secure the Battery Hold-Down: Reinstall the battery hold-down, tightening it securely.

9. Connect the Positive Terminal: Connect the positive (+) cable to the positive (+) terminal and tighten the nut securely.

10. Connect the Negative Terminal: Connect the negative (-) cable to the negative (-) terminal and tighten the nut securely.

11. Start the Vehicle: Start the engine to ensure the new battery is working properly.

As one owner shared, replacing the battery fixed his auto start/stop issue: "Oil and filter Change, Rotated tires, touched up the Woolswax underneath, new battery that fixed the auto start/stop (not that I use it much)..." This demonstrates the direct link between battery health and the function of certain vehicle features.

Parts and Tools Needed

• New Battery (Group size depends on your specific 2020 Ford F-150 configuration - consult your owner's manual or a parts store)
• Wrench set (typically 10mm and 13mm)
• Battery terminal cleaner
• Gloves
• Battery load tester (optional)
• Multimeter (optional, but recommended for diagnostics)

Real Owner Costs

The cost of addressing battery issues on the 2020 Ford F-150 can vary depending on whether you choose to DIY the repair or take it to a shop.

DIY Costs:

• Battery: $150 - $300 (depending on brand and type)
• Battery terminal cleaner: $5 - $10
• Tools (if needed): $20 - $50 (for a basic wrench set and battery terminal cleaner)

Total DIY Cost: $175 - $350

Professional Repair Costs:

• Battery: $200 - $400 (including installation)
• Labor: $50 - $150 (depending on the shop's hourly rate)
• Diagnostic Fee (if applicable): $50 - $100

Total Professional Repair Cost: $300 - $650

Some owners have had their batteries replaced under warranty, as mentioned by one owner: "1st truck I've owned, purchased a '23 4wd XL extended cab new. Had rear differential leak (bad gasket) 1 month in, bad ford motor battery 9months in, all covered under warranty no other issues yet." However, this is only applicable if the vehicle is still within the warranty period.

It's crucial to note that costs can vary widely based on location, specific parts used, and the chosen repair shop. Always get quotes from multiple shops before committing to a repair.

Prevention

Preventing battery issues in your truck involves proactive maintenance and mindful usage habits:

• Regular Battery Testing: Have your battery tested at least once a year, especially before winter. Cold weather can significantly impact battery performance.

• Minimize Short Trips: Short trips don't allow the alternator enough time to fully recharge the battery. If you frequently take short trips, consider using a battery maintainer or charger periodically to keep the battery fully charged.

• Limit Accessory Use When Idling: Avoid using power-hungry accessories like the radio, air conditioning, and headlights for extended periods while the engine is idling.

• Turn Off Accessories: Ensure all lights and accessories are turned off when you exit the vehicle.

• Consider Battery Maintainer: If your truck sits unused for extended periods, use a battery maintainer to prevent the battery from discharging. This is especially helpful if you have accessories like dash cams that draw power even when the ignition is off, as mentioned by one owner: "If I have parking mode on the camera on and don't drive the truck for more than 24 hours I get the warning."

• Keep Terminals Clean: Regularly clean the battery terminals to prevent corrosion, which can impede current flow.

What Owners Say

Real experiences from FORD owners:

Success Stories

"Spent some time on it today - was one of those great warm fall days. Oil and filter Change, Rotated tires, touched up the Woolswax underneath, new battery that fixed the auto start/stop (not that I use it much), wash, clay, wax and trim touch up followed by a beer, Getting ready for winter before the cold comes." — JetChasers (source)

"It worked 100% normal for 2 days. This evening I went to start and I got lights on the dash for 8-10 seconds then all lights go dead and when I turn the key to start, there is a slight noise from the starter." — texan_176 (source)

"Oil and filter Change, Rotated tires, touched up the Woolswax underneath, new battery that fixed the auto start/stop (not that I use it much), wash, clay, wax and trim touch up followed by a beer, Getting ready for winter before the cold comes." — JetChasers (source)

Owner Experiences

"Annoyingly I just bought a new battery and haven’t had an issue since. The factory batteries are JUNK" — packapunch_koenigseg (source)

"I had the same issue and dealer claimed battery was fine. Annoyingly I just bought a new battery and haven’t had an issue since." — packapunch_koenigseg (source)

"1st truck I've owned, purchased a '23 4wd XL extended cab new. Had rear differential leak (bad gasket) 1 month in, bad ford motor battery 9months in, all covered under warranty no other issues yet." — HanoverRd (source)

Lessons Learned

⚠️ "It takes very little battery drain to get that warning. When I bought my 23 I would get it from walking by the truck to often activating the proximity lights." — DasGoat (source)

⚠️ "I turned off that feature and it didn't happen again until a couple months ago when I installed a dash cam. If I have parking mode on the camera on and don't drive the truck for more than 24 hours I get the warning." — DasGoat (source)

FAQ

Q: How long does it take to fix a battery issue?

A: Replacing the battery itself is a relatively quick process, typically taking 30 minutes to an hour for a DIY repair. However, diagnosing the underlying cause of the battery issue can take longer, especially if it involves a parasitic draw or charging system problem. A shop may take a couple of hours for the diagnosis.

Q: Can I drive with a low battery warning?

A: While it's possible to drive with a low battery warning, it's not recommended. A low battery can strain the charging system and potentially leave you stranded if the battery fails completely. Address the issue as soon as possible.

Q: Is this a common issue on the 2020 Ford F-150?

A: Based on owner reports, battery issues seem to be relatively common on the 2020 Ford F-150, with some owners reporting premature failure of the factory battery.

Q: DIY vs mechanic - what's recommended?

A: Replacing the battery is a straightforward DIY task for most mechanically inclined individuals. However, if you're uncomfortable working on your vehicle or suspect a more complex issue, such as a parasitic draw or charging system problem, it's best to consult a qualified mechanic. If you have a PowerBoost model, be sure that any mechanic you choose is qualified to test both the main and auxiliary batteries.