2016 Ford F-150 Battery Size & Group

Quick answer

• BCI Group Size: The 2016 Ford F-150 most commonly uses a Group H6 (also called 48) battery. Some models with higher electrical demands, particularly those with the 2.7L or 3.5L EcoBoost engines, may require a Group H7 (also called 94R). The H7 is slightly larger and offers more capacity.
• CCA Rating: A minimum of 610 CCA is recommended for the H6, while 800 CCA is the standard for the optional H7 AGM battery. Always choose a battery with CCA rating equal to or greater than the original equipment (OE) battery.
• Reserve Capacity (RC): Aim for a reserve capacity of 110 minutes or more for the H6 and 140 minutes or more for the H7 to ensure sufficient power for the vehicle's electronics.
• AGM vs. Flooded: The 2016 F-150 equipped with an engine Stop-Start system requires an Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) battery. If your truck does not have Stop-Start, you can use either an AGM or a traditional flooded battery, though AGM is highly recommended for its durability and performance with modern vehicle electronics.
• Terminal Layout: The correct terminal layout is Type "R", meaning the positive terminal is on the right when the battery is viewed from the side with the terminals closest to you. This is the standard for Group 94R and is also common for H6 batteries used in Ford vehicles.
• Physical Dimensions (L x W x H):
  • H6/48: Approximately 10.9" x 6.9" x 7.5"
  • H7/94R: Approximately 12.4" x 6.9" x 7.5"
• Dual-Battery Setup: The F-150 does not come with a dual-battery setup from the factory; this is reserved for Super Duty models with the Power Stroke diesel engine.

Replacement battery options

When it's time for a replacement, several reputable brands offer high-quality batteries that are a direct fit for the 2016 F-150. Always verify the fitment for your specific engine and trim level with the parts retailer.

• Motorcraft: The OEM choice, Tested Tough MAX (part # BAGM-94RH7-800 for H7 AGM).
• Interstate: MTX-94R/H7 (AGM) or MTX-48/H6 (AGM).
• DieHard: Platinum AGM Battery, Group Size H7/94R (part # 94R-AGM) or H6 (part # 48-AGM).
• Optima: YellowTop DH6 or DH7. These are high-performance AGM batteries known for their vibration resistance and deep-cycling capability.
• Odyssey: Performance Series ODP-AGM94R (H7).

AGM vs. flooded — which does this vehicle need?

If your 2016 F-150 has the engine Stop-Start feature, which automatically turns the engine off at a stop to save fuel, you must use an AGM battery. The frequent engine restarts put a massive strain on the battery, and AGM technology is specifically designed to handle this deep-cycling demand without premature failure.

Even if your truck doesn't have Stop-Start, upgrading to an AGM battery is a wise investment. The complex electronics, from the SYNC infotainment system to the power-hungry accessories and trailer hookups, benefit from the stable power and faster recharging capabilities of an AGM. They are also more resistant to vibration and are completely sealed, making them safer and maintenance-free.

Post-installation relearn / reset procedure

After replacing the battery in a 2016 F-150, you must perform a Battery Management System (BMS) reset. This procedure tells the vehicle's computer that a new battery has been installed, resetting the battery's age parameter and ensuring the charging system operates correctly. Failure to do so can lead to overcharging or undercharging the new battery, significantly shortening its lifespan.

The reset procedure typically involves the following steps:

1. Ensure all doors are closed and all accessories are off.
2. Turn the ignition on (engine off).
3. Pull and release the high-beam lever 5 times.
4. Press and release the brake pedal 3 times.
5. The battery light on the instrument cluster should flash within a few seconds, indicating the reset was successful.

If this sequence doesn't work, a diagnostic scan tool with BMS reset capabilities can complete the process in seconds.

Signs of a failing battery

• Slow Engine Crank: The most common symptom. The engine turns over sluggishly when you try to start it.
• Dimming Lights: Headlights and interior lights may dim when the engine is off or during startup.
• Warning Lights: A battery or check engine light may illuminate on the dashboard.
• Frequent Stop-Start Deactivation: If equipped, the Stop-Start system may become disabled to conserve battery power.
• Corrosion: White, crusty deposits on the battery terminals indicate a leak that needs immediate attention.
• Age: If the battery is over 3-4 years old, it is living on borrowed time, especially in extreme climates.

Common battery issues for this generation

The 2015-2020 generation of F-150s is known for its sophisticated electrical systems, which can sometimes lead to a condition known as "parasitic draw." This is where a module or component fails to go to sleep properly after the truck is turned off, slowly draining the battery overnight. The complex Body Control Module (BCM) is sometimes the culprit. If you find your new battery is dying unexpectedly, a parasitic draw test should be the first diagnostic step.

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