Battery: Description and Operation

Battery and Cables

Vehicles are equipped with a 12-volt, maintenance-free battery.

The battery and cable system consists of the following components:

- Battery

- Battery cable assembly

- Battery tray

- Battery current sensor

- Generator current sensor

For additional information about the the battery and generator current sensors, refer to Charging System.

The battery is a 12V DC source connected in a negative ground system. The battery case is sealed with 2 vent holes to release gases. The battery has 3 major functions:

- Engine cranking power source

- Voltage stabilizer for the electrical system

- Temporary power source when electrical loads exceed the generator output current

Ford Motor Company strongly recommends that lead-acid batteries be returned to an authorized recycling facility for disposal.