Sometimes, after a car has been sitting idle for a while, its battery loses charge and can’t start the engine. This can happen for various reasons — from simply leaving the headlights on overnight, to a faulty battery or alternator. When faced with a dead battery, the quickest solution is often to jumpstart the car.
What Is Jumpstarting a Car?
Jumpstarting, also known as “boosting,” is the process of starting a vehicle whose battery is dead or too weak to start the engine on its own. It involves temporarily connecting your car’s battery to another vehicle’s fully charged battery or an external power source. This transfer of electricity gives your battery enough power to start the engine. Once running, your car’s alternator will recharge the battery, allowing you to disconnect the jumper cables safely.
Essential Tools You’ll Need
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Jumper cables
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Rubber gloves for protection
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Safety goggles or splash-proof eyewear
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Another vehicle with a fully charged battery of the same voltage
Step-by-Step Guide to Jumpstarting Your Car
1. Park the Cars Close, But Not Touching
Position the donor car close enough so jumper cables can reach both batteries, but avoid the vehicles touching to prevent any electrical issues.
2. Connect the Positive (+) Terminals
Attach the red jumper cable clamp to the positive terminal (+) of the dead battery, then connect the other red clamp to the positive terminal (+) of the good battery.
3. Connect the Negative (-) Terminal to a Ground
Attach one black clamp to the negative terminal (-) of the donor battery. Instead of connecting the other black clamp to the dead battery’s negative terminal, attach it to an unpainted metal part of the engine block or chassis (away from the battery and fuel system). This acts as a grounding point to reduce spark risk.
4. Start the Donor Car
Turn on the engine of the car with the good battery and let it run for about a minute to provide charge.
5. Start Your Car
Attempt to start the car with the dead battery. If it doesn’t start immediately, wait a few more minutes and try again.
6. Let Both Engines Run
Once your car starts, let both vehicles idle for about 10 minutes to allow your battery to charge.
7. Disconnect the Cables Carefully
Remove the jumper cables in the reverse order of connection: negative clamp from your car’s grounding point, negative clamp from the donor battery, positive clamp from the donor battery, then positive clamp from your battery. Avoid letting the clamps touch each other or the car during removal.
Important Do’s When Jumpstarting
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Read Your Owner’s Manual: Some modern cars have specific jumpstart points or may restrict jumpstarting altogether due to warranty or electrical system sensitivity.
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Verify Voltage Compatibility: Ensure both vehicles have the same voltage (usually 12V) to avoid damage.
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Park Securely: Both cars should be in park or neutral with parking brakes engaged.
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Turn Off Accessories: Radios, headlights, and other electronics should be off to prevent power surges.
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Wear Safety Gear: Use gloves and goggles to protect yourself from sparks or battery acid.
Critical Don’ts to Remember
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Don’t Smoke or Use Open Flames: Batteries emit flammable gases; even a small spark can cause an explosion.
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Don’t Attempt Jumpstarting a Damaged Battery: Cracks or leaks in the battery case can lead to dangerous acid leaks or explosions.
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Don’t Let Cables Dangle Near Water or Metal Surfaces: Wet surfaces or unintended metal contact can cause short circuits or shocks.
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Don’t Rush: Take your time connecting and disconnecting cables safely to avoid injury or damage.
Final Thoughts
Jumpstarting a car is a straightforward process, but safety is key. By following these steps carefully and using proper precautions, you can get back on the road quickly without damaging your vehicle or risking injury. Always consult your vehicle’s manual first, and if unsure, seek professional help.
