Who manufactures Motorcraft car batteries?
Motorcraft car batteries are Ford-branded parts produced by contract battery manufacturers, with Clarios (the successor to Johnson Controls Power Solutions) as a primary supplier in many markets; the exact maker varies by model and region.
Motorcraft is Ford’s official parts brand, used to ensure replacement components meet Ford specifications. While Ford defines the performance targets and fit, the actual manufacturing is outsourced to external OEMs under contract, and the supplier can change over time or by location.
How Ford Schedules Battery Production
Ford relies on partnerships with global battery manufacturers to supply Motorcraft batteries that satisfy cold-cranking amps, reserve capacity, size, and warranty requirements across its model lineup. Clarios has been a key partner since the 2019 reorganization that separated Johnson Controls’ Power Solutions business, and Ford may use other suppliers in different regions as contracts evolve.
Regional Variations and Model Differences
Because Ford operates worldwide, Motorcraft batteries can come from different manufacturers depending on country, vehicle model, climate, and SKU. The battery labeling or Ford’s official parts catalogs can indicate the actual production source for a given unit.
Labels and how to read them
When shopping for a replacement, check the battery label or packaging for the supplier name or facility code. If you need certainty about the supplier for your region and vehicle, your Ford dealer or the official Motorcraft catalog can confirm the current contracted manufacturer for that battery SKU.
What to Do If You Need a Replacement
Always use the correct Motorcraft battery as specified for your Ford or Lincoln vehicle by referencing the part number, not just the branding. If you want to know the precise supplier for a particular Motorcraft battery, consult the product label, the dealership, or the official Motorcraft parts website, which can confirm the current contracted manufacturer for your region and model.
Summary
Motorcraft batteries are Ford-branded parts produced by external battery manufacturers under contract, with Clarios (the former Johnson Controls Power Solutions) as a major supplier in many markets. The exact manufacturer can vary by model, region, and SKU, but all Motorcraft batteries are designed to meet Ford’s specifications and sold through Ford and Lincoln dealerships for official replacement.
Is the Ford Motorcraft a good battery?
Yes, Motorcraft batteries are considered good because they are the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) recommended batteries for Ford vehicles, are built to high standards with quality materials, and offer a good balance of performance and price. They are designed for reliability and are a trusted choice for many installers and DIYers.
Reasons Motorcraft batteries are a good choice
- OEM recommended: As the Ford-approved brand, Motorcraft batteries are engineered for a perfect fit and reliable performance in Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury vehicles.
- Quality construction: They are made with first-quality materials and incorporate advanced features like stamped grid technology for durability and a proprietary negative paste in their AGM batteries for better charge acceptance.
- Reliability: They are known for their long life and reliable starting power, even in extreme conditions.
- Performance and technology: The batteries incorporate the latest technology and offer a range of power choices. AGM models are designed for faster recharging and high starting power.
- Value: They are often competitively priced, making them a good value for their quality and performance.
- Warranty: They come with a solid warranty, with options like the "Tested Tough MAX" having a 3-year free replacement period and 5-year total prorated coverage.
Who manufactures batteries for Ford?
Ford uses several companies for its batteries, including BlueOval SK (a joint venture with SK On) for lithium-ion batteries, CATL for the technology in its U.S.-made lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries, and Johnson Controls for its Motorcraft brand batteries for traditional vehicles.
Electric vehicle (EV) batteries
- BlueOval SK: A joint venture between Ford and South Korea's SK On. It develops and manufactures lithium-ion batteries for future Ford and Lincoln EVs.
- CATL: Ford licenses technology from the Chinese company CATL to produce LFP batteries at its wholly-owned battery plant in Marshall, Michigan.
- LG Energy Solution: Another South Korean battery manufacturer that partners with Ford, based on information from the BlueOval SK JV and the 2023 battery plant details.
Traditional vehicle batteries
- Johnson Controls: Makes the Motorcraft brand batteries, which are the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) batteries for Ford vehicles.
- Omnicraft: This brand offers aftermarket batteries manufactured in Europe and India using flooded lead-acid technology for a wide range of vehicles.
Who makes Motorcraft batteries?
Motorcraft batteries are manufactured by Clarios LLC (formerly Johnson Controls) for the Ford Motor Company, which owns the Motorcraft brand. This means that Ford uses the Motorcraft brand for its official auto parts, and Clarios LLC is the company that physically makes the batteries.
- Manufacturer: Clarios LLC (formerly Johnson Controls)
- Brand Owner: Ford Motor Company
- Function: Ford utilizes the Motorcraft brand for its official parts, and Clarios LLC is the company that produces them to Ford's specifications.
What brand battery does Ford use?
Ford uses its own brand, Motorcraft, for original equipment manufacturer (OEM) batteries, but various other brands can be used as replacements, such as Optima, Duralast, and DieHard. Motorcraft batteries are engineered to meet Ford's specific performance and reliability standards for Ford and Lincoln vehicles.
Ford's official brand
- Motorcraft: This is the only battery brand recommended by Ford for its vehicles.
- These batteries are designed to provide original equipment performance and undergo rigorous testing to meet Ford's engineering standards.
Other brands for replacement
- When replacing a battery, you can choose from many aftermarket brands.
- Popular and highly-rated options include Optima, Duralast, and DieHard.
- Other brands available include Napa, ACDelco, and Odyssey.
