2012–2019 Ford Explorer Battery Size (BCI Group and CCA)

Which Ford Explorer model years does this cover?

These battery specifications apply to every Ford Explorer built from 2012 through 2019 — the U502 (5th generation), mid-size 3-row crossover suv (unibody, fwd/awd). Nothing in this specification changes between those model years. Pick your year for the engines it offered, what changed that year, and the problems recorded against it.

What changed during the 2012–2019 Ford Explorer

• 20122.0L EcoBoost joins as an FWD-only economy option (no tow package)
• 2013Explorer Sport added: 365-hp 3.5L EcoBoost, AWD, 352mm brakes, 20-in wheels
• 2014Essentially unchanged: a few new exterior colors added; Limited trim gains standard heated second-row seats
• 2015Essentially unchanged: Limited trim adds an available adaptive cruise control option, with second-row heated seats offered as an option lineup-wide
• 2016Major facelift: new front/rear styling, 280-hp 2.3L EcoBoost replaces the 2.0L, Platinum trim (3.5L EcoBoost) added, SYNC 3 arrives mid-cycle; low-beam bulb changes to H11
• 2018–2019Minor updates; carryover mechanicals in the final years before the RWD-platform redesign

What size battery does a 2012–2019 Ford Explorer take?

BCI group 65, rated at 650 cold cranking amps from the factory. Group size is a physical dimension and terminal-position standard, so a battery from a different group may not clamp down or may put the terminals on the wrong side.

How many CCA does a 2012–2019 Ford Explorer need?

At least 650 CCA. Going higher is harmless and helps in cold climates; going lower is how a vehicle that started fine in October stops starting in January.

Does the 2012–2019 Ford Explorer need an AGM battery?

The factory battery is a conventional flooded type. AGM is a valid upgrade, but never downgrade from AGM to flooded.

Where is the battery on a 2012–2019 Ford Explorer?

Engine bay.

Does a 2012–2019 Ford Explorer need the battery registered after replacement?

Factory battery is a flooded BCI Group 65, Motorcraft BXT-65-650 (650 CCA) standard; heavier-optioned/Police vehicles got 750–850 CCA versions (BXT-65-750, BXT-65-850). Any quality Group 65 with 650+ CCA fits. No start-stop system on this generation, so AGM is optional.