What Is Ford BMS Reset, And How Do You Perform It?

Ford Bms reset is crucial for maintaining optimal battery performance in your vehicle by CAR-TOOL.EDU.VN. It helps the vehicle’s computer accurately monitor battery condition, ensuring efficient charging and preventing premature battery failure. Find out the generations of Edge/MKX/Nautilus vehicles and get a complete guide. Explore our selection of car diagnostic tools and automotive maintenance solutions today.

1. What is Ford BMS (Battery Monitoring System)?

The Ford Battery Monitoring System (BMS) is an electronic system that monitors the condition of your vehicle’s battery. The primary goal of the Ford BMS is to ensure efficient charging and prevent premature battery failure. It gathers data about the battery’s voltage, current, and temperature, which it then uses to estimate the battery’s state of charge (SOC) and state of health (SOH). The BMS communicates with the vehicle’s computer (Body Control Module or Powertrain Control Module, depending on the model) to adjust the charging process and manage electrical loads.

1.1. Key Functions of Ford BMS

The BMS performs several important functions:

• Monitoring Battery Condition: Continuously checks voltage, current, and temperature.
• Estimating State of Charge (SOC): Determines how much energy is available in the battery.
• Estimating State of Health (SOH): Assesses the battery’s overall condition and ability to hold a charge.
• Adjusting Charging Process: Optimizes the charging rate to prevent overcharging or undercharging.
• Managing Electrical Loads: Sheds non-essential loads to conserve battery power when necessary.
• Providing Diagnostic Information: Alerts the driver to potential battery issues through warning lights or messages.
• Extending Battery Life: By optimizing charging and load management, the BMS helps prolong the battery’s lifespan.

1.2. Importance of a Properly Functioning BMS

A properly functioning BMS is essential for several reasons:

• Ensures Reliable Starting: By maintaining an optimal state of charge, the BMS helps ensure that the vehicle starts reliably, even in cold weather.
• Prevents Premature Battery Failure: Overcharging and deep discharging can damage the battery. The BMS prevents these conditions, extending the battery’s life.
• Optimizes Fuel Efficiency: By managing electrical loads efficiently, the BMS reduces the strain on the alternator, which can improve fuel efficiency.
• Provides Accurate Information: Accurate SOC and SOH estimates allow the vehicle’s computer to make informed decisions about charging and load management.
• Enhances Safety: By preventing battery-related issues, the BMS enhances the overall safety and reliability of the vehicle.

1.3. Ford BMS Components

The Ford BMS typically consists of the following components:

• Battery Monitoring Sensor: Measures voltage, current, and temperature. This sensor is usually mounted on the negative battery terminal.
• Body Control Module (BCM) or Powertrain Control Module (PCM): Processes the data from the sensor and controls the charging process.
• Wiring Harness: Connects the sensor to the BCM or PCM.

2. What is Ford BMS Reset?

Ford BMS reset is the procedure of resetting the Battery Monitoring System (BMS) after replacing the vehicle’s battery. A BMS reset clears the old battery data and allows the system to learn the characteristics of the new battery, ensuring accurate monitoring and optimal performance.

2.1. Why is BMS Reset Necessary?

The BMS learns the characteristics of the old battery over time, including its capacity, internal resistance, and discharge rate. When a new battery is installed, the BMS needs to be reset to clear the old data and learn the characteristics of the new battery. If the BMS is not reset, it may continue to use the old data, which can lead to inaccurate monitoring and suboptimal performance.

2.2. Consequences of Not Performing BMS Reset

Failing to perform a BMS reset after replacing the battery can have several negative consequences:

• Inaccurate Battery Monitoring: The BMS may provide inaccurate estimates of the battery’s state of charge (SOC) and state of health (SOH).
• Suboptimal Charging: The charging system may not charge the battery correctly, leading to overcharging or undercharging.
• Reduced Battery Life: Overcharging and undercharging can damage the battery and shorten its lifespan.
• Load Shedding Issues: The BMS may shed non-essential loads prematurely or fail to shed them when necessary.
• Warning Lights and Messages: The vehicle may display warning lights or messages related to the battery or charging system.
• Poor Performance: The vehicle may experience poor performance, such as slow starting or reduced fuel efficiency.

2.3. When Should You Perform a BMS Reset?

You should perform a BMS reset in the following situations:

• After Replacing the Battery: This is the most common reason to perform a BMS reset.
• After Jump Starting the Vehicle Incorrectly: If the negative lead of the jump starter is connected to the negative battery terminal instead of a ground point, it can disrupt the BMS measurements.
• After Charging the Battery Externally Incorrectly: Similar to jump starting, connecting the negative lead of the external charger to the negative battery terminal can disrupt the BMS measurements.
• After Experiencing Battery-Related Issues: If you are experiencing issues such as warning lights, poor performance, or load shedding problems, a BMS reset may help.

3. How to Perform a Ford BMS Reset

The procedure for performing a Ford BMS reset varies depending on the vehicle model and year. There are two primary methods:

• Using a diagnostic scan tool.
• Performing a manual reset procedure.

3.1. BMS Reset Using a Diagnostic Scan Tool

This is the most reliable method, as it ensures that the BMS is properly reset. You will need a diagnostic scan tool that is compatible with your vehicle.

Steps:

1. Connect the Scan Tool: Plug the scan tool into the OBD-II port, usually located under the dashboard.
2. Power On: Turn on the ignition but do not start the engine.
3. Navigate to BMS Reset Function: Use the scan tool to navigate to the BMS reset function. This may be located in the “Body Control Module” (BCM) or “Powertrain Control Module” (PCM) menu, depending on the vehicle model.
4. Follow On-Screen Instructions: Follow the on-screen instructions to perform the reset. The scan tool may ask you to confirm the battery replacement and enter the battery specifications.
5. Complete the Reset: Once the reset is complete, disconnect the scan tool and start the engine.

3.2. Manual BMS Reset Procedure

This method does not require a scan tool, but it may not be effective for all vehicles.

Steps:

1. Turn on the Ignition: Turn on the ignition but do not start the engine.
2. Activate Headlights: Turn on the headlights.
3. Press Brake Pedal: Press and hold the brake pedal.
4. Cycle Ignition: Turn the ignition off and then on again, without releasing the brake pedal.
5. Release Brake Pedal and Turn off Headlights: Release the brake pedal and turn off the headlights.
6. Wait: Wait for a few minutes to allow the BMS to reset.
7. Start the Engine: Start the engine and check if the battery-related warning lights are gone.

3.3. Ford Specific Reset Procedures

Some Ford models have specific reset procedures. Here are a couple of examples:

Ford Focus (2012-2018):

1. Turn ignition on, but do not start the engine.
2. Cycle the high beams five times.
3. Press the brake pedal three times.
4. The battery light on the dash will flash if the reset was successful.

Ford F-150 (2015-2020):

1. Turn the ignition on, but do not start the engine.
2. Wait for three minutes.
3. Press the brake pedal three times.
4. Turn the ignition off.
5. Turn the ignition on and start the engine.

Note: Always refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual or a repair manual for the specific BMS reset procedure for your vehicle.

3.4. Common Issues During BMS Reset

During the BMS reset process, you may encounter the following issues:

• Scan Tool Compatibility: Ensure that the scan tool is compatible with your vehicle model and year.
• Incorrect Procedure: Follow the correct procedure for your vehicle. Refer to the owner’s manual or a repair manual.
• Communication Errors: Check the connection between the scan tool and the OBD-II port.
• Battery Condition: Ensure that the new battery is in good condition and fully charged.
• Software Issues: Update the scan tool software to the latest version.

If you encounter any issues, consult a qualified technician for assistance.

4. Ford BMS Reset: By Vehicle Generation

The existence, usage, and effects of a Battery Monitoring System (BMS) Reset vary across the generations of Edge/MKX/Nautilus vehicles.

4.1. Gen 2 Vehicles (2015-2023 Edge, 2016-2018 MKX, 2019-2023 Nautilus)

Gen 2 vehicles’ Electrical Management System employs sophisticated charging and electrical circuit load shedding strategies.

• BMS Functionality: Algorithms in the Body Control Module (BCM) software, battery age calculations from a time-in-service counter, and battery state-of-charge judgements from up to 8-hours of battery voltage history stored in the BCM. Measurements are taken by the Battery Monitoring Sensor mounted on the negative battery terminal clamp.
• BMS Reset Purpose: Reserved for new battery installation only. It establishes a new battery time-in-service counter start point and erases the battery voltage history, which creates a new baseline of data for the algorithms in the BCM software to apply toward Electrical Management System charging and load shedding outcomes.
• Dealing with Invalid Battery Voltage Data: Invalid data can be created when jump starting or externally charging the battery with the device’s negative lead improperly attached to the negative battery post, which disrupts the Battery Monitoring Sensor’s measurements. A valid span of historical values must be recreated by leaving the vehicle undisturbed in sleep mode for a period of 8 hours, with no current draws above 300mA. Locking the vehicle with all doors, hood, and liftgate closed helps achieve sleep mode more promptly.
• Avoiding Faulty Data Creation: Properly connecting the jump starter or external battery charger negative lead onto a body ground-point (shock tower sheet metal bolt head) avoids the faulty data creation and eliminates the need for 8 hours of undisturbed vehicle sleep mode. Normal state-of-charge calibration occurs during 4-6 hour periods of everyday vehicle downtime in sleep mode.

4.2. Gen 1+ Vehicles (2011-2014 Edge, 2011-2015 MKX)

Gen 1+ vehicles’ Battery Management System lacks Gen 2’s BCM algorithms and battery age monitoring but still achieves enhanced charging and load shedding performance using the same up to 8-hours of battery voltage history stored in the BCM.

• BMS Functionality: Enhanced charging and load shedding performance using the same up to 8-hours of battery voltage history stored in the BCM, as measured by the Battery Current Sensor mounted on the negative battery terminal clamp.
• BMS Reset Purpose: BMS Reset is to be employed when instances of faulty or an absence of battery voltage data history occurs in the BCM.
• Avoiding the Need for a BMS Reset: Connect the jump starting and external battery chargers negative lead to an engine or body ground point, and the key/ignition status should be ‘ON’, which allows the BCM to record battery voltage values when the external device is in use.
• When a BMS Reset is Needed: If the key/ignition status is ‘OFF’ or the device’s negative lead is attached to the negative battery post, then the BMS Reset must be performed, or as an alternative, leaving the vehicle undisturbed in sleep mode for a period of 8 hours. Locking the vehicle with all doors, hood, and liftgate closed helps achieve sleep mode more promptly.

4.3. Gen 1 Vehicles (2007-2010 Edge/MKX)

Gen 1 vehicles’ Powertrain Control Module (PCM) simultaneously monitors and controls the charging system and battery voltage, without any battery age awareness or battery state-of-charge-based load shedding capability.

• BMS Functionality: The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) monitors and controls the charging system and battery voltage.
• BMS Reset Absence: Lacking battery age awareness or battery state-of-charge-based load shedding capability, no BMS Reset procedure exists for Gen 1 vehicles.

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6. Troubleshooting Ford BMS Issues

If you are experiencing issues with your Ford BMS, the following troubleshooting tips may help:

6.1. Common Symptoms of a Faulty BMS

• Battery Warning Light: The battery warning light on the dashboard may be illuminated.
• Poor Battery Performance: The battery may not hold a charge, or the vehicle may be difficult to start.
• Load Shedding Issues: The vehicle may shed non-essential loads prematurely or fail to shed them when necessary.
• Charging System Problems: The charging system may not charge the battery correctly, leading to overcharging or undercharging.
• Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs): The vehicle may store diagnostic trouble codes related to the BMS or charging system.

6.2. Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) Related to Ford BMS

Here are some common DTCs related to Ford BMS:

DTC	Description	Possible Causes
B107F:07	Battery Monitoring System – Internal Electronic Failures – Mechanical Failure	Faulty BMS sensor, wiring harness issue, corrosion, loose connections
B107F:08	Battery Monitoring System – Internal Electronic Failures – Signal Invalid	Faulty BMS sensor, electromagnetic interference, incorrect installation
B107F:09	Battery Monitoring System – Internal Electronic Failures – Component Failures	Damaged components within the BMS sensor, electrical surges, extreme temperatures
B107F:11	Battery Monitoring System – Internal Electronic Failures – Circuit Short to Ground	Short circuit in the BMS sensor wiring, damaged insulation, pinched wires
B107F:12	Battery Monitoring System – Internal Electronic Failures – Circuit Short to Battery	Short circuit in the BMS sensor wiring, incorrect wiring modifications, voltage spikes
B107F:13	Battery Monitoring System – Internal Electronic Failures – Circuit Open	Open circuit in the BMS sensor wiring, broken wires, loose connections
B107F:14	Battery Monitoring System – Internal Electronic Failures – Circuit Short to Voltage	Short circuit in the BMS sensor wiring, faulty electrical components, voltage regulator malfunction

6.3. How to Diagnose Ford BMS Issues

1. Check the Battery: Ensure that the battery is in good condition and fully charged.
2. Inspect the BMS Sensor: Check the BMS sensor for damage or corrosion.
3. Check the Wiring Harness: Inspect the wiring harness for damage, corrosion, or loose connections.
4. Scan for DTCs: Use a diagnostic scan tool to scan for DTCs related to the BMS or charging system.
5. Perform a BMS Reset: If necessary, perform a BMS reset using a diagnostic scan tool or the manual procedure.

6.4. When to Seek Professional Help

If you are unable to diagnose or repair the BMS issue yourself, seek professional help from a qualified technician. They will have the expertise and equipment to diagnose and repair the issue correctly.

7. Best Practices for Ford Battery Maintenance

Following these best practices can help extend the life of your Ford’s battery and ensure reliable performance:

7.1. Regular Battery Inspections

Regularly inspect your battery for signs of damage or corrosion. Clean the terminals with a battery terminal cleaner and check the battery voltage with a multimeter.

7.2. Proper Battery Charging Habits

Avoid deep discharging the battery, as this can damage it. If the battery is frequently discharged, consider using a battery maintainer to keep it fully charged.

7.3. Avoid Excessive Electrical Loads

Avoid leaving lights or accessories on when the engine is off, as this can drain the battery. If you frequently use electrical accessories, consider upgrading to a higher-capacity battery.

7.4. Proper Jump Starting Procedures

When jump starting the vehicle, follow the correct procedure to avoid damaging the BMS or other electrical components. Connect the positive leads first, then connect the negative lead of the jumper cables to a grounded metal part of the dead vehicle’s engine, away from the battery.

7.5. Professional Maintenance

Have the battery and charging system inspected by a qualified technician during routine maintenance. They can identify potential issues and recommend appropriate repairs.

8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Ford BMS

Q1: What is a Ford BMS reset?

A Ford BMS reset is the process of resetting the Battery Monitoring System (BMS) after replacing the vehicle’s battery, clearing old data and allowing the system to learn the characteristics of the new battery for accurate monitoring and optimal performance.

Q2: Why is a BMS reset necessary after replacing the battery?

A BMS reset is necessary because the BMS learns the characteristics of the old battery over time. Resetting it allows the system to learn the new battery’s characteristics, ensuring accurate monitoring and optimal charging.

Q3: What happens if I don’t perform a BMS reset?

If you don’t perform a BMS reset, the vehicle may experience inaccurate battery monitoring, suboptimal charging, reduced battery life, load shedding issues, warning lights, and poor performance.

Q4: How do I know if my Ford needs a BMS reset?

You typically need a BMS reset after replacing the battery, jump-starting the vehicle incorrectly, charging the battery externally incorrectly, or when experiencing battery-related issues.

Q5: Can I perform a BMS reset myself, or do I need a professional?

You can perform a BMS reset yourself using a diagnostic scan tool or a manual reset procedure, but if you are not comfortable doing it yourself, it’s best to seek professional help.

Q6: What tools do I need to perform a BMS reset?

To perform a BMS reset, you may need a diagnostic scan tool that is compatible with your vehicle or follow the manual reset procedure outlined in your vehicle’s owner’s manual.

Q7: How long does a BMS reset take?

A BMS reset typically takes only a few minutes when using a diagnostic scan tool. The manual reset procedure may take a bit longer, depending on the vehicle model.

Q8: What are the common issues during a BMS reset?

Common issues during a BMS reset include scan tool compatibility, incorrect procedure, communication errors, battery condition, and software issues.

Q9: How can I check if the BMS reset was successful?

You can check if the BMS reset was successful by starting the engine and checking if any battery-related warning lights are gone. Some scan tools also provide a confirmation message.

Q10: Where can I find more information about Ford BMS and battery maintenance?

You can find more information about Ford BMS and battery maintenance on CAR-TOOL.EDU.VN, in your vehicle’s owner’s manual, or by consulting a qualified technician.

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