What are the common causes of the Ford Explorer 2020's battery draining quickly?

Common Causes of Battery Draining Quickly in 2020 Ford Explorer

When dealing with a 2020 Ford Explorer experiencing rapid battery drain, several potential causes should be investigated. Below, we outline the symptoms, diagnostic steps, tools required, and repair instructions.

Step 1: Visual Inspection

1. Tools Required: Basic socket set, multimeter, flashlight.
2. Procedure:
   • Open the hood and inspect the battery for corrosion on terminals. Clean if necessary using a solution of baking soda and water.
   • Check for any loose or damaged cables.
   • Look for signs of wear or fraying on the battery cables.
   • Inspect the battery case for swelling or leaks indicating the battery may need replacement.

Step 2: Check Battery Voltage

1. Tools Required: Multimeter.
2. Procedure:
   • Set the multimeter to measure DC voltage.
   • Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery.
   • Connect the multimeter leads to the battery terminals (red to positive, black to negative).
   • A fully charged battery should read around 12.6 volts or higher. If it reads below 12.4 volts, the battery may be weak or discharged.

Step 3: Test for Parasitic Draw

1. Tools Required: Multimeter (capable of measuring milliamps), fuse puller.
2. Procedure:
   • Ensure the vehicle is off and all accessories are turned off.
   • Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery.
   • Connect the multimeter in series between the negative battery terminal and the battery cable.
   • Observe the reading. A normal parasitic draw should be around 30 mA. Any reading significantly higher than this indicates a problem.
   • To isolate the source, pull fuses one at a time while monitoring the multimeter until the draw drops to normal. This will identify the circuit causing the drain.

Step 4: Inspect Electrical Components

1. Tools Required: Wiring diagram for the vehicle, multimeter, test light.
2. Procedure:
   • Check the components identified from the previous step that may be causing excessive current draw.
   • Inspect components like the radio, alarm systems, or any aftermarket installations.
   • Use a wiring diagram to trace circuits if needed to find shorts or ground faults.

Step 5: Check Charging System

1. Tools Required: Multimeter, battery tester, basic socket set.
2. Procedure:
   • With the engine running, use the multimeter to check the voltage at the battery. It should read between 13.7 to 14.7 volts to confirm the alternator is charging the battery.
   • If the voltage is low, inspect the alternator belt for proper tension and wear.
   • Test the alternator output using a battery tester to confirm it is functioning properly.

Repair Instructions

Repairing Battery Drain Issues

1. Battery Replacement:

   • If the battery is found to be weak or defective, replace it with a new one. Ensure the replacement matches the specifications required for the 2020 Ford Explorer.

2. Repairing Wiring Issues:

   • If the parasitic draw is due to faulty wiring, repair or replace damaged wiring as needed. Ensure connections are secure and insulated.

3. Component Replacement:

   • If a specific component (like the radio or alarm system) is identified as the cause, consider repairing or replacing the component.

4. Alternator Repair/Replacement:

   • If the alternator is faulty, remove it using a socket set:
     • Disconnect the battery (negative terminal).
     • Remove the serpentine belt from the alternator.
     • Unplug the electrical connectors attached to the alternator.
     • Remove the mounting bolts and take out the alternator.
     • Install the new alternator and reverse the removal steps.

Conclusion

By following these diagnostic and repair steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the battery drain in your 2020 Ford Explorer and take appropriate action to resolve it. Always ensure safety measures are taken when working with electrical systems. If in doubt, consult with a professional technician.