Understanding the Role of Ford BMS (Battery Management System)
The Ford BMS, also known as the Battery Monitoring System, plays a crucial role in maintaining the battery’s charge when the vehicle’s engine is turned off. It ensures that there is sufficient power available in the battery to operate the vehicle’s accessories, such as plugging in devices, activating lights, and using the audio system.
Thanks to the BMS, even after you’ve finished driving and turned off the vehicle, certain accessories will remain active. You might have noticed that headlights and interior lights take some time to turn off, and that delay is attributed to the BMS. It allows lights, sounds, and charging ports to retain power for a specific duration, ranging from 10 to 75 minutes, before automatically switching them off. This feature prevents the battery from reaching a critically low level.
If your vehicle’s battery charge is insufficient, the display screen will notify you, indicating that you need to wait until the battery recharges adequately. The presence of the BMS ensures that your vehicle’s accessories do not drain the battery faster than it can recharge. Consequently, you can drive without worrying about running out of battery power.
What Does BMS Reset Entail?
BMS reset refers to the process of disabling the battery system in a vehicle, typically performed when replacing the car’s battery or after recharging it.
Resetting the BMS allows the vehicle to learn and adapt to the charging cycle of a new battery. While it is possible for the system to automatically adjust and relearn the cycle when a new battery is installed without performing a BMS reset, it may still attempt to safeguard the battery based on the previous cycle.
To ensure optimal performance and prevent any potential issues, it is recommended to carry out a BMS reset after installing a new battery. This enables the vehicle’s battery management system to accurately monitor and protect the new battery in accordance with its specific charging requirements.
How to Reset Ford’s BMS: A Step-by-Step Guide
Resetting the BMS on your Ford vehicle is a straightforward process that can be accomplished with a few simple steps. There are various methods available to reset the system, but we will guide you through the most effective approach that requires minimal tools.
Tools Required for Ford BMS Reset
In most cases, resetting the BMS on your Ford does not require any specialized tools. However, certain tools may be necessary for a smoother reset procedure. Many professional auto mechanics utilize computerized scanners to expedite the process.
If you prefer to reset the BMS without relying on tools, the following step-by-step guide will provide the necessary instructions.
How to Reset Ford’s BMS: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1 – Disconnect the Battery
To begin, open the hood of your car to access the battery. Locate the negative connector and disconnect it from the battery.
Step 2 – Turn on the Headlights
Enter the vehicle and sit in the driver’s seat. Insert the key into the ignition without turning it to start the engine. Switch on the headlights by turning the headlight knob to the “on” position.
Ensure that the headlights are aimed away from people and avoid placing them in the auto position.
Step 3 – Flicker the Lights
Within 10 seconds of completing Step 1, repeatedly pull the headlight knob back five times. Each time, pull the knob toward the steering wheel. You should observe the headlight indicator on the display screen blinking five times.
Step 4 – Press the Brake Pedal
Immediately after flickering the headlights five times, proceed to this step. Use your foot to press the brake pedal down and release it fully, repeating this action three times consecutively. Ensure that you press the brake pedal all the way down before releasing it each time.
This step is crucial to ensure the BMS reset works, as it allows the vehicle to receive the necessary code. Perform this step right after completing Step 2.
Step 5 – Look for Battery Light Flash
After completing Steps 2 and 3 correctly, wait for the indication of a successful reset. If you followed the previous steps accurately, you should see the red battery icon appear on the display. The battery icon will flash several times, indicating that the reset process is concluding.
Please be patient, as it may take more than 10 seconds for the flashing to occur. If the battery icon does not appear after a few minutes, repeat the entire process.
Step 6 – Restart the Vehicle
In the final step, restart the vehicle after completing the above steps. Remove the key from the ignition and reinsert it. Turn the key to power on the accessories, and then turn it further to fully start the vehicle.
If the battery icon stops flashing and there are no messages regarding the BMS, you have successfully reset the system.
Alternative BMS Reset Methods
There are alternative methods to reset the BMS on your Ford vehicle, including using a computer scanner or allowing the vehicle to sleep. These methods can be helpful if you prefer not to manually perform the reset or encounter persistent BMS messages after replacing the battery.
Resetting Ford’s BMS with a Computer Scanner
If you choose to reset the BMS using a computer scanner, it is advisable to take your vehicle to an auto technician who is experienced in operating the scanner. They will be able to connect the scanner to your vehicle’s onboard computer system and perform the BMS reset procedure using the appropriate software.
Resetting Ford’s BMS by Allowing the Vehicle to Sleep
Believe it or not, you can reset the BMS by simply allowing the vehicle to sleep. This method is particularly useful when you have recently installed a new battery and continue to encounter BMS messages. Follow these steps:
- Replace the battery and turn off the car.
- Close all doors and lock the vehicle.
- Wait for approximately 8 hours before unlocking the vehicle.
- Enter the car and insert the key into the ignition.
- The BMS message should no longer be displayed.
By following these simple steps, you can reset the BMS on your Ford vehicle and successfully clear any BMS messages that persist after battery replacement.
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