how to jumpstart a car battery

That dreaded clicking sound when you turn the key is a universal sign of car trouble. A dead battery can happen to anyone, often at the most inconvenient time. But before you call for an expensive tow, know that this is a problem you can often solve yourself in just a few minutes. Knowing how to jumpstart a car battery is an essential skill that can get you back on the road quickly and safely.

The Essential Gear You’ll Need

Before you begin, you’ll need a set of jumper cables and a power source. The power source can be another vehicle with a healthy battery or a portable jump starter pack. Ensure the cables are in good condition, without any cracked insulation or significant corrosion on the clamps. If you’re using another car, position it so the two vehicles are close but not touching.

A Safe Guide on How to Jumpstart a Car Battery

Safety is the absolute priority. Always wear safety glasses if you have them. Turn off both vehicles and set the parking brakes. Now, let’s get your car running.

First, identify the positive (+) and negative (-) terminals on both batteries. They are usually marked with red for positive and black for negative. Connect the red clamp to the dead battery’s positive terminal. Then, connect the other red clamp to the good battery’s positive terminal. Next, connect the black clamp to the good battery’s negative terminal. For the final black clamp, do not connect it to the dead battery. Instead, attach it to an unpainted metal surface on the dead car’s engine block, like a bolt. This provides a safer ground.

Start the working vehicle and let it run for a few minutes. Then, try to start the car with the dead battery. If it starts, great! Leave both cars running while you carefully disconnect the cables in the reverse order you connected them.

What to Do After a Successful Jumpstart

Your work isn’t quite done. To recharge your battery, you’ll need to drive your car for at least 15-20 minutes, not just let it idle. This allows the alternator to properly replenish the battery’s charge. If your car doesn’t start again after you turn it off, the battery may be old and need replacement, or there could be an issue with your alternator or charging system. It’s a good idea to have your battery and charging system tested at an auto parts store soon after.

With these simple steps, you can confidently handle a dead battery. It’s a straightforward process that saves you time, money, and a lot of stress, turning a potential roadside crisis into a minor delay.