How to Jump-Start a Car

Jump-starting a car is a useful skill when your battery dies unexpectedly. This guide will help you safely and effectively jump-start your vehicle using jumper cables and a second car.

How to Jump-Start a Car: Step-by-Step

Prepare Both Vehicles

• Park the working car close to the dead car, but do not let them touch.

• Turn off both engines, lights, and accessories.

• Open the hoods and locate the batteries.

Connect the Jumper Cables

1. Attach one red (positive) clamp to the dead battery’s positive terminal (+).

2. Attach the other red clamp to the good battery’s positive terminal (+).

3. Attach one black (negative) clamp to the good battery’s negative terminal (–).

4. Attach the other black clamp to an unpainted metal surface on the dead car’s engine block or chassis, away from the battery.

Start the Vehicles

1. Start the working car and let it run for a few minutes.

2. Attempt to start the dead car. If it doesn’t start, wait a few more minutes and try again.

Disconnect the Jumper Cables

1. Remove the black clamp from the dead car first.

2. Remove the black clamp from the good battery.

3. Remove the red clamp from the good battery.

4. Remove the red clamp from the dead battery.

After Jump-Starting

• Keep the jumped car running for at least 20 minutes to recharge the battery.

• Drive the car or use a battery charger to maintain the charge.

Tips for Safe Jump-Starting

Safety Tips

• Wear protective gloves and eyewear if possible.

• Avoid touching clamps together during the process.

• Follow the cable connection order carefully to prevent sparks.

• If the car won’t start after several attempts, call for roadside assistance.

• Regularly check your battery and cables for wear.