Maintaining your car battery is a vital part of your overall car maintenance. But sometimes, your battery can wear out. Or, you might accidentally leave a door ajar or a light on. When this happens, it can drain your car battery. Then, you won’t be able to start your car. Here are the steps for jump-starting your car. You can also adapt these steps to help someone else jump-start their car.
Make Sure You Can Safely Jump-start Your Car
Jump-starting with jumper cables is only safe if neither car uses alternative fuels or electronic ignition. In addition, you want to make sure you are jump-starting your vehicle in as safe a place as possible. The front of the other car may need to be very close to the front of your car if the jumper cables are shorter. Finally, ensure both vehicles are off when attaching the clips.
The Steps for Jump-starting Your Car
- Get out your jumper cables. It is always a good idea to have a set even if you have a new car. Not only will you be prepared if your car needs it, but you might be able to help others in a pinch.
- Make sure that both your car and the good Samaritan’s car are in neutral or park. Turn both cars off, and put on the parking brakes on both vehicles.
- Begin attaching the cables to your car. Look for the larger or positive (+) terminal. In addition, it may also have a red cap. Then, clip the red clamp to that terminal.
- Next, clip the other red clamp on the other car’s positive terminal.
- Now, clip the black clamp to the other car’s negative (-) terminal.
- Then, find an unpainted metal surface on your car to clip the last black clamp to. Many people use the rod that holds the hood up.
- Once the clips are in place, have the other person start their car up. Let the car run for a few minutes.
- Finally, start your car. But if your car doesn’t start right away, let the other car run for a few more minutes before trying again.
If the jump works, it’s crucial you leave your car running as you drive it around for at least 15 minutes.
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If You Still Have Battery Trouble
Even if the jump start works, you may still have battery trouble. This can be a sign that the battery is wearing out. In addition, it could also mean that there are other problems that don’t allow the battery to charge correctly when you drive. The service department at Red McCombs Hyundai Northwest in San Antonio, Texas, can give your car a thorough checkup. Call the service department today to make an appointment for vital maintenance.