These instructions apply to the Ford Explorer Mk6 (U625) 2020-Present.
For other models, please choose your vehicle here.
Before electrical work on a 2020-and-newer Ford Explorer you disconnect the 12 V battery, negative first. It’s an AGM battery (Group 48/H6, ~760 CCA) and the battery-management system needs time to relearn afterward. This is the US-market procedure.
- Ignition off, key out, eye protection on.
- Open the hood; the battery is in the engine compartment.
- Remove the negative (−, black) cable first, then the positive (+, red); insulate the negative so it can’t touch the post.
- Reconnect positive first, negative last. Replace only with the same AGM specification; don’t ground accessories to the negative post.
- Reset the clock and radio. Expect slightly unusual behavior for the first few miles while the system relearns.
FAQ
Does it need AGM?
Yes — the Auto Start-Stop Explorer uses an AGM battery; replace it with exactly the same specification.
Why does it feel off afterward?
The battery-management system relearns the state of charge over about 8 hours of sleep and a few miles of driving; shifts may feel firm at first.
Which cable first?
Negative off first, negative on last.
If your Explorer stores a fault code with the warning light, look it up on autodtcs.com.
Independent guide — not affiliated with Ford. Always follow your official service manual and safety precautions. Read our full disclaimer.