How to Change a 2017 Ford Escape Battery: Step-by-Step Guide

Prepare for Battery Change

When preparing to change the battery in your 2017 Ford Escape, it’s essential to gather the necessary tools and materials beforehand. Here’s what you need to do:

  • Tools Needed:
  • Wrench
  • Safety gloves
  • Safety goggles
  • Battery cleaner or baking soda
  • Wire brush
  • Safety First:
    Ensure your vehicle is parked in a safe and flat area, and turn off the engine before beginning the battery replacement process.
  • Locate the Battery:
    The battery in your Ford Escape is typically located in the engine bay. Consult your owner’s manual for the exact location.
  • Inspect the Battery:
    Before removing the old battery, check for any signs of damage like leaks or corrosion on the terminals.
  • Disconnect the Battery:
    Start by loosening the negative (-) cable first, followed by the positive (+) cable. Remember, always disconnect the negative cable first and reconnect it last when installing the new battery.
  • Remove the Old Battery:
    Carefully lift out the old battery using appropriate lifting techniques to avoid strain.
  • Clean the Battery Tray:
    After removing the old battery, clean the battery tray with a mixture of water and baking soda to neutralize any corrosion.
  • Install the New Battery:
    Place the new battery in the tray and secure it. Reconnect the positive (+) cable first, then the negative (-) cable.
  • Final Checks:
    Double-check all connections are secure, smear a dab of grease on the terminals to prevent corrosion, and start your car to ensure the battery change was successful.

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Remember, proper maintenance of your vehicle’s battery is key to its longevity and optimal performance.

Locate the Battery in 2017 Ford Escape

If you’re ready to tackle the battery change on your 2017 Ford Escape, the first step is to locate where the battery is housed in your vehicle. Here’s a guide to help you find it easily:

  • The battery in a 2017 Ford Escape is typically located under the hood, on the right side of the engine compartment. Look for a rectangular plastic cover.
  • To access the battery, you may need to remove the air filter box. This box is usually secured by a few clips that can be easily unlatched.
  • Once the air filter box is out of the way, you should have a clear view of the battery. It’s essential to be cautious and avoid any contact with the battery terminals to prevent electric shock.
  • Familiarize yourself with the positive (+) and negative (-) terminals on the battery. It’s crucial to identify these correctly before proceeding with the replacement.
  • Remember to consult your vehicle manual for precise instructions on locating the battery in your 2017 Ford Escape model, as the position may vary slightly.

With the battery location in mind, you’re one step closer to successfully swapping out the old battery with a new one for optimal performance.

Disconnect the Old Battery

When it’s time to disconnect the old battery, follow these steps carefully:

  • Step 1: Ensure your vehicle is turned off.
  • Step 2: Identify the battery terminals: the red one is positive, and the black one is negative.
  • Step 3: Start with the negative terminal – that’s the black one.
  • Step 4: Loosen the nut holding the negative cable in place and gently detach it from the terminal.
  • Step 5: Proceed to the positive terminal, repeating the process of loosening the nut and disconnecting the cable.

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Important Note: Always disconnect the negative terminal first to avoid any mishaps.
Reminder: Double-check that the cables are securely out of the way to prevent accidental reconnection.

Next, you’ll be ready to continue with the installation of the new battery.

Install the New Battery

Whether you’re replacing an old one or upgrading for better performance, installing a new battery in your 2017 Ford Escape is simple. Here’s how to do it:

  • Step 1: Positioning the Battery

  • Place the new battery in the battery tray, ensuring that it sits securely.
  • Step 2: Reconnecting Cables

  • Connect the positive (+) cable to the positive terminal on the new battery.
  • Connect the negative (-) cable to the negative terminal on the new battery.
  • Step 3: Securing the Battery

  • Secure the battery in place using the hold-down clamp.
  • Step 4: Checking Connections

  • Double-check that all connections are tight and secure.
  • Insulate the positive terminal with a protective cover.
  • Close the hood of your Ford Escape.

Remember, a correctly installed battery is essential for your vehicle’s performance and longevity. Now that you’ve installed the new battery, you’re ready to enjoy a smooth ride ahead.

Test the New Battery

When installing a new battery, it’s crucial to ensure that it’s functioning correctly before finalizing the process. Follow these steps to Test the New Battery:

  • Step 1: Double-check all connections to ensure they are secured.
  • Step 2: Turn on your vehicle to verify that the battery is supplying power.
  • Step 3: Test the battery’s voltage with a multimeter to confirm it’s within the appropriate range.

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By testing the new battery thoroughly, you can avoid potential issues down the road and enjoy a smooth ride with your 2017 Ford Escape.

Important Note
Always read the manufacturer’s instructions for testing batteries to ensure accuracy.

Conclusion

You’ve now successfully learned how to change the battery in your 2017 Ford Escape. By following the detailed steps provided in this article, you can ensure that your vehicle’s battery is installed securely and correctly. Remember, a properly installed battery is crucial for your car’s performance and longevity. Double-check all connections, test the power supply by starting the vehicle, and verify the battery’s voltage to ensure it falls within the appropriate range. Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for accurate testing procedures. With these steps completed, you’re all set for a smooth ride ahead.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why is it essential to disconnect the old battery before replacing it?

It’s important to disconnect the old battery to avoid electrical shocks and prevent damage to the vehicle’s electrical system.

2. How do you position the new battery securely in a 2017 Ford Escape?

Place the new battery in the correct orientation, ensuring the positive and negative terminals align with the cables.

3. What’s the significance of reconnecting the cables correctly when installing a new battery?

Correctly reconnecting the cables ensures proper functioning of the vehicle’s electrical system and components.

4. Why is using a hold-down clamp to secure the battery important?

A hold-down clamp keeps the battery in place during vehicle operation, preventing movement and potential damage.

5. How can you ensure all connections are secure after installing the new battery?

Check all connections for tightness and ensure cables are properly attached to the terminals.

6. Why is insulating the positive terminal of the battery necessary?

Insulating the positive terminal prevents accidental short circuits and electrical malfunctions.

7. What steps should be followed to test the new battery thoroughly?

Double-check all connections, start the vehicle to verify power supply, and use a multimeter to check the battery’s voltage within the appropriate range.

8. Why is it crucial to read the manufacturer’s instructions for testing batteries?

Following the manufacturer’s instructions ensures accurate testing and helps maintain the battery’s warranty validity.

Battery industry professional with 5+ years of experience. Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from Georgia Tech. Specializes in power systems and renewable energy.

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