how to diagnose a parasitic battery drain on Ford F-150 13th Generation (2015-2020)

Solution

1. Preparation

• Tools Required: Multimeter, fuse puller, safety glasses, gloves
• Safety Warnings: Ensure the vehicle is turned off and parked safely. Disconnect the negative battery terminal before starting work.

2. Identify the Problematic Circuit

• Sub-step 1: After determining which fuse reduces the current draw, note the circuit associated with that fuse (e.g., radio, alarm system).
• Sub-step 2: Refer to the vehicle’s service manual for the specific components connected to the identified fuse.

3. Inspect and Repair

• Sub-step 1: Inspect the components of the identified circuit for any signs of damage or malfunction (e.g., short circuits, faulty relays).
• Sub-step 2: Repair or replace any faulty components found during inspection.
• Sub-step 3: If no faults are visible, consider checking the wiring harness for wear or corrosion.

4. Reassemble and Test

• Sub-step 1: Reinstall any fuses removed during diagnosis.
• Sub-step 2: Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
• Sub-step 3: Start the vehicle and recheck the multimeter for any current draw. Ensure it is within acceptable limits.