2020 Ford F-150 Battery Size & Group

Quick answer

• BCI Group Size: Most 2020 Ford F-150s with gasoline engines use a Group 48 (H6) or Group 94R (H7) battery. Diesel models typically use a dual Group 65 setup.
• CCA Rating: Look for a minimum of 730 CCA (for H6/94R) or 850 CCA (for Group 65).
• Reserve Capacity: A minimum of 120 minutes is recommended for gasoline engines, and higher for diesel.
• AGM vs. Flooded Requirement: All 2020 Ford F-150s with auto start-stop technology require an AGM battery. Models without auto start-stop can use a quality flooded battery, but AGM is often a superior upgrade.
• Terminal Layout: Top post, typically SAE (standard).
• Physical Dimensions: Varies by group. H6: ~10.9" L x 6.9" W x 7.6" H. H7/94R: ~12.4" L x 6.9" W x 7.6" H. Group 65: ~12.06" L x 7.4" W x 7.5" H.
• Dual-Battery Setup: Diesel 3.0L Power Stroke F-150s utilize a dual-battery (two Group 65) setup for enhanced starting power and electrical system support.

Replacement battery options

• Interstate: Check for part numbers like MTP-H6 (H6), MTP-H7 (H7), or MTP-65 (Group 65).
• Optima: YellowTop H6 (DS46B24R), YellowTop H7 (DH6), or YellowTop Group 65 (DH65) are common choices, known for their deep cycle and starting power.
• DieHard: Platinum AGM H6, H7, or Group 65 (often found at Advance Auto Parts).
• Odyssey: Odyssey Extreme Series H6 (PC1200), H7 (PC1350), or Group 65 (65-PC1750) are premium, high-performance options.
• ACDelco: Professional AGM H6 (ACDelco 48AGM), H7 (ACDelco 94RH7AGM), or Group 65 (ACDelco 65AGM).

AGM vs. flooded — which does this vehicle need?

The 2020 Ford F-150, especially models equipped with the auto start-stop feature, absolutely requires an Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) battery. The start-stop system puts significant stress on the battery, demanding frequent high-current discharges and recharges. Traditional flooded lead-acid batteries are not designed to withstand this kind of cycling and will fail prematurely. Using a flooded battery in a start-stop equipped F-150 can lead to system malfunctions, diagnostic trouble codes, and a significantly shortened battery lifespan.

Even if your 2020 F-150 does not have start-stop technology, an AGM battery is often a worthwhile upgrade. AGM batteries offer superior vibration resistance, a slower self-discharge rate, and are sealed and maintenance-free. They generally provide more consistent power delivery throughout their life and can better handle the increasing electrical demands of modern trucks, including aftermarket accessories.

Post-installation relearn / reset procedure

After replacing the battery in your 2020 Ford F-150, it is crucial to perform a Battery Monitoring System (BMS) reset. This procedure informs the vehicle's computer that a new battery has been installed, allowing the charging system to optimize its charging strategy for the new battery's state of health. Skipping this step can lead to undercharging or overcharging, reducing the new battery's lifespan.

Here’s a common DIY method:

1. Ensure the vehicle is off and all accessories are off.
2. Turn on the headlights for at least 10 seconds to drain any residual charge from the system.
3. Turn off the headlights.
4. Disconnect the negative battery terminal first, then the positive.
5. Remove and replace the battery.
6. Connect the positive battery terminal first, then the negative.
7. Close all doors.
8. Turn the ignition to the ON position (without starting the engine) for at least 10 seconds.
9. Turn the ignition OFF.
10. Start the engine. Let it idle for a few minutes. You may notice some features (like window one-touch up/down) needing to be reprogrammed. Drive the vehicle as normal. The BMS will relearn over the next few drive cycles.

For some F-150 models, particularly those with the 3.0L Power Stroke diesel, a more advanced reset using a diagnostic scan tool (like FORScan or an equivalent professional tool) may be necessary to properly reset the BMS and clear any related trouble codes. If you experience persistent electrical issues or warning lights after a DIY reset, consult a qualified technician.

Signs of a failing battery

• Slow cranking: The engine struggles to turn over when starting.
• Dim lights or flickering electronics: Interior or exterior lights appear dim, or accessories act erratically, especially when trying to start.
• Warning lights: A battery warning light or "Check Charging System" message may appear on your dashboard.
• Corrosion: Excessive corrosion around the battery terminals.
• Bloated or cracked battery case: A sign of internal damage or overcharging.
• Frequent auto start-stop malfunctions: If your start-stop system is less responsive or stops working, the battery is often the first culprit.
• Old age: Most automotive batteries last 3-5 years. If yours is older, it's due for a check-up.

Common battery issues for this generation

For the 2015-2020 F-150 generation, common battery-related issues often revolve around the sophistication of the electrical system, particularly with the introduction of auto start-stop technology. Batteries in these vehicles are under increased demand. Common complaints include:

• Premature battery failure: Often due to using an incompatible flooded battery in a start-stop vehicle, or the battery simply not being robust enough for the demands.
• Issues with the auto start-stop system: The system may disable itself if the battery's state of charge or health is not optimal.
• Parasitic draws: While not directly a "battery issue," a parasitic draw (something continuously drawing power when the vehicle is off) can quickly kill even a new battery. This can be challenging to diagnose.
• BMS requiring reset: As mentioned, failure to reset the BMS after a battery replacement can lead to persistent charging issues and a shortened battery life.

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