2016 Ford F-350 Super Duty Battery Size & Group

Quick Answer

• BCI Group Size: Group 65 (Gasoline) or Group 31 (Diesel)
• CCA Rating: 850+ CCA recommended for gasoline, 1000+ CCA for diesel (per battery in a dual setup).
• Reserve Capacity: 150+ minutes for gasoline, 180+ minutes for diesel.
• AGM vs. Flooded: Flooded is standard, but AGM is a popular and recommended upgrade, especially for diesel models.
• Terminal Layout: Top post (SAE tapered posts).
• Physical Dimensions:
  • Group 65: Approximately 12" L x 7.5" W x 7.5" H
  • Group 31: Approximately 13" L x 6.8" W x 9.4" H
• Dual-Battery Setup: Diesel models come standard with a dual-battery setup.

Replacement Battery Options

When it's time to replace your 2016 Ford F-350 Super Duty battery, you have several excellent options from reputable brands. Always double-check the BCI group size and CCA ratings to ensure compatibility with your specific engine (gasoline or diesel). While specific part numbers can vary by retailer and year, here are general recommendations:

• Interstate (Group 65 for Gas / Group 31 for Diesel): Known for reliability and wide availability.
  • Gasoline (Group 65): Interstate MTP-65 or MTZ-65 (AGM)
  • Diesel (Group 31): Interstate Commercial Series 31P-MHD or 31-AGM
• Optima (Group 65/31 YellowTop for Gas/Diesel): Premium AGM batteries, excellent for heavy electrical loads and off-road use.
  • Gasoline (Group 65): Optima YellowTop D35/75 (often fits with an adapter) or D65
  • Diesel (Group 31): Optima YellowTop D31A or D31T
• DieHard (Group 65 for Gas / Group 31 for Diesel): A popular choice with good performance.
  • Gasoline (Group 65): DieHard Platinum AGM Group 65
  • Diesel (Group 31): DieHard Platinum AGM Group 31
• Odyssey (Group 65 for Gas / Group 31 for Diesel): High-performance AGM batteries with excellent lifespans.
  • Gasoline (Group 65): Odyssey PC1750 (often fits with an adapter) or 65-PC1750
  • Diesel (Group 31): Odyssey 31-PC2150ST or 31-PC2150T
• ACDelco (Group 65 for Gas / Group 31 for Diesel): OEM quality and good value.
  • Gasoline (Group 65): ACDelco Professional 65-7YR (flooded) or 65AGM (AGM)
  • Diesel (Group 31): ACDelco Professional 31-AGM or 31P-6YR

AGM vs. Flooded — Which Does This Vehicle Need?

For the 2016 Ford F-350 Super Duty, both flooded (standard lead-acid) and AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) batteries are viable. The vehicle came from the factory with flooded lead-acid batteries in most configurations. However, AGM batteries offer significant advantages, making them a highly recommended upgrade, especially for the diesel models and trucks with heavy accessory loads.

Flooded Batteries (Standard):

• Pros: Generally less expensive upfront.
• Cons: Require occasional maintenance (checking water levels), more susceptible to vibration damage, slower to recharge, and less tolerant of deep discharges.

AGM Batteries (Recommended Upgrade):

• Pros: Maintenance-free (sealed), highly resistant to vibration, slower self-discharge rate, faster recharging, better performance in extreme temperatures, and more tolerant of deep discharges. They are particularly beneficial for modern vehicles with increased electrical demands and for diesel engines that require significant cranking power.
• Cons: Higher upfront cost.

Given the robust electrical demands of the F-350, particularly with the Power Stroke diesel engine which relies on two batteries, investing in AGM batteries can provide superior reliability, longevity, and peace of mind.

Post-Installation Relearn / Reset Procedure

After disconnecting and replacing the battery in your 2016 Ford F-350 Super Duty, some systems may require a relearn or reset procedure. While not always strictly necessary for basic operation, following these steps can help ensure all electronics function correctly and prevent issues like rough idling or erratic shifting.

1. Engine Idling Relearn: After reconnecting the battery, start the engine and let it idle for at least 5-10 minutes without touching the accelerator. This allows the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) to re-learn its idle parameters.
2. Window Express Up/Down Reset (if equipped): If your power windows have an auto up/down feature, they might need resetting. To do this, roll the window all the way down, then hold the switch in the "up" position for a few seconds after the window is fully closed.
3. Radio/Navigation/Clock: You will likely need to re-enter your radio presets and reset the clock.
4. Drive Cycle: Driving the vehicle normally for a few days will allow the PCM and other modules to fully relearn driving habits and shift points.

For most F-350s, a simple idle relearn and driving cycle are sufficient. If you experience persistent issues, consulting your owner's manual or a qualified technician is advised.

Signs of a Failing Battery

Recognizing the signs of a dying battery can save you from being stranded. Pay attention to these common indicators:

• Slow Cranking: The engine turns over sluggishly when you try to start it.
• Dim Lights and Electronics: Headlights, interior lights, or the radio seem dimmer than usual, especially when starting the truck.
• Warning Lights: A battery or charging system warning light illuminates on your dashboard.
• Corrosion: White, powdery substance (corrosion) around the battery terminals.
• Swelling Battery Case: The battery case appears swollen or bulging, often indicating internal damage or overcharging.
• Age: Batteries typically last 3-5 years. If yours is older, it's wise to have it tested.
• Frequent Jumps: Needing to jump-start your truck repeatedly.

Common Battery Issues for This Generation

While the 2016 Ford F-350 Super Duty is a robust truck, certain battery-related issues can arise, often exacerbated by the demanding nature of a heavy-duty pickup:

• Accessory Drain: These trucks are often equipped with many power-hungry accessories (aftermarket lights, plows, inverters, trailer connections) that can place a significant load on the charging system and batteries, leading to premature wear if not managed properly.
• Parasitic Draws: Electrical components that remain active when the vehicle is off can slowly drain the battery. Common culprits include aftermarket accessories, faulty modules, or issues with the Body Control Module (BCM).
• Vibration Damage: Heavy-duty trucks experience more vibration, which can shorten the lifespan of standard flooded batteries. This is where AGM batteries offer a distinct advantage.
• Charging System Issues: A failing alternator or voltage regulator can either undercharge (leading to a dead battery) or overcharge (leading to battery damage and premature failure) the batteries.
• Cold Weather Performance (Diesel): Diesel engines require tremendous cranking power, especially in cold weather. Weak batteries in a dual-battery setup will struggle, leading to no-start conditions.
• Battery Tray Corrosion: Over time, acid leaks from flooded batteries can corrode battery trays and surrounding components, necessitating cleaning or replacement.

Regular battery testing and maintenance, especially for diesel models with dual batteries, are crucial for long-term reliability.

Find a trusted shop on Repairius.