How many volts is a Ford Explorer battery?
The standard Ford Explorer uses a 12-volt battery for starting and most electrical systems. Hybrid variants include a separate high-voltage battery for the electric drive, which operates at hundreds of volts. This article explains what that means for different Explorer models and how to check or care for the batteries.
In gasoline and non-hybrid Explorers, the 12-volt battery powers the starter and accessories, and it is recharged by the alternator when the engine is running. The usual charging voltage from the alternator sits in the 13.8–14.4-volt range, while the battery itself rests around 12.6–12.8 volts when fully charged. In Explorer Hybrid and other electrified variants, there is a high-voltage pack that powers the electric motor; its voltage is much higher than 12V and varies by year and configuration. The exact specifications should be taken from the vehicle’s official documentation for your model year.
Standard 12-volt battery in gas-only Explorers
What it powers
The 12V battery handles starting the engine and running traditional electrical systems like lighting, infotainment, and other accessories when the engine isn’t running.
Typical voltage and charging behavior
When the engine is off, a healthy 12V battery sits around 12.6–12.8 volts. With the engine running, the alternator pushes the system voltage up to about 13.8–14.4 volts to recharge the battery and run electrical loads.
Hybrid and high-voltage systems in Explorer Hybrid and related variants
Voltage characteristics
The Explorer Hybrid uses a high-voltage battery pack for the electric drive. That pack operates at hundreds of volts (well above the 12V system). The exact pack voltage varies by model year and configuration, and it requires specialized equipment and safety procedures for service.
Interaction with the 12-volt system
The 12V battery in hybrids still exists to power low-voltage systems and to provide a startup path when needed, but the high-voltage pack supplies the primary electric propulsion. A DC-DC converter manages power between the high-voltage system and the 12V battery.
How to check your Explorer’s battery voltage
Checking the 12-volt battery (non-hybrid)
For the standard 12V battery, measure across the two battery posts with the engine off and all accessories off. A healthy battery should read about 12.6–12.8 volts. If it reads below 12.0 volts, it may be discharged or failing. Start the engine and monitor the voltage; it should rise to roughly 13.8–14.4 volts as the alternator charges the battery.
Safety note for high-voltage systems
Do not attempt to test or tamper with the high-voltage traction battery in an Explorer Hybrid or other electrified variant with ordinary tools. High-voltage systems require specialized equipment and trained personnel due to shock and fire hazards.
Maintenance and replacement considerations
When to replace the 12-volt battery
Replace the 12V battery if it consistently reads low, shows signs of excessive discharge, or fails a load test. Extreme temperatures, parasitic drain, and age can shorten life. Replacement typically uses a battery type and size compatible with the vehicle’s specifications; refer to the owner’s manual or a Ford dealer for the exact group size and rating.
Hybrid-specific considerations
If you own a Hybrid, remember that the high-voltage pack is not user-serviceable in the same way as the 12V battery. Any service or replacement involving the high-voltage system should be performed by trained technicians at a Ford service center or a qualified shop to ensure safety and proper operation.
Summary
In short, a typical Ford Explorer runs on a 12-volt starting battery for conventional models. Hybrid and other electrified variants use a high-voltage traction battery in addition to the 12V system. For everyday checks, test the 12V battery voltage with the engine off (expect about 12.6–12.8V when healthy) and with the engine running (alternator should push the reading to about 13.8–14.4V). Always consult your specific model year’s documentation for exact voltage specs and follow safety guidelines when dealing with high-voltage systems, seeking professional service when needed.
Is 11.7 volts a dead battery?
Partially Discharged: A battery showing around 12.1 volts is approximately 50% charged, while a reading of about 11.7 volts indicates it's around 25% charged. Fully Discharged: A reading of 10.5 volts or lower usually indicates a dead or fully discharged battery.
What should a Ford Explorer battery voltage be?
12 to 13 volts
How often should you replace your Ford Explorer battery? Every 3 to 5 years, but you should have your battery tested usually for extreme drops in voltage to make sure it's operating at a trustworthy level. Vehicle batteries ordinarily haul 12 to 13 volts unless you have a high-performance battery.
What is the voltage of a Ford battery?
A fully charged battery will typically display a voltmeter reading of about 12.6 to 12.8 volts. If your voltmeter is showing a voltage anywhere between 12.4 and 12.8, that means your battery is in good shape. Any voltage above 12.9 volts is a good indicator that your battery has excessive voltage.
What type of battery does a Ford Explorer use?
The Ford Explorer uses various battery types depending on the model year, but common battery group sizes are Group 65, Group 48 (H6), and Group 59. The correct type is a 12-volt automotive battery, often an Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) battery for newer models or those with advanced technology, and can be found by checking the vehicle's owner's manual for the specific group size.
Common battery types by group size
- Group 65: A common option, especially for older models, which is often an Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) battery for enhanced performance.
- Group 48 (H6): Frequently used in newer models, like the 2021 and 2022 Ford Explorers, and is often an AGM battery.
- Group 59: Another group size used in some Ford Explorer models.
- Other sizes: Some model years may use different sizes like Group 34 or Group 25.
How to find the correct battery for your Explorer
- Check your owner's manual: This is the most reliable source for the correct group size and specifications.
- Look for "Group Size" on the old battery: The group size is often printed on the side of your current battery.
- Use an online battery finder: Many auto parts stores have online tools where you can enter your vehicle's year, make, and model to find compatible batteries.
- Note the technology: Newer vehicles with features like start-stop technology and high-demand accessories require a battery with advanced technology like AGM or Enhanced Flooded Battery (EFB).
