Learn How to Jump Start Your Vehicle

What You'll Need

1. Jumper Cables
2. Rubber Gloves
3. Wire Brush
   
   

Jump-Starting Instructions

1. Position the Vehicles: Park both cars close together, ensuring they don't touch.
   
   
2. Turn Off Ignitions: Switch off the ignitions of both cars.
   
   
3. Pop the Hoods: Open the hoods of both vehicles.
   
   
4. Identify Battery Terminals: Locate the battery terminals on each car. The positive terminal is marked with a "+" sign, while the negative terminal is marked with a "-" sign.
   
   
5. Connect the Cables:
   • Attach the red jumper cable to the positive terminal of the dead battery.
   • Connect the other end of the red jumper cable to the positive terminal of the functioning battery.
   • Attach the black jumper cable to the negative terminal of the functioning battery.
   • Connect the opposite end of the black jumper cable to a metal area on the engine block of the dead car, away from the battery.
     
     
6. Start the Functional Car: Turn on the engine of the working car and let it run for a few minutes.
   
   
7. Start the Dead Car: Attempt to start the engine of the dead car. If it doesn't start, let the operating car run for a few additional minutes before trying again.
   
   
8. Turn Off the Working Car: Once the engine of the dead car starts, turn off the engine of the working car.
   
   
9. Disconnect the Cables: Remove the jumper cables in the reverse order from which you attached them.
   
   

Safety Tips

• Always wear rubber gloves when handling batteries.
• Avoid allowing the metal parts of the jumper cables to touch each other.
• Be cautious not to let the jumper cables make contact with the ground.
• If you're uncomfortable jump-starting your car, consider calling a tow truck or roadside assistance service.
  
  

Tips for Preventing a Flat Battery

• Ensure your battery is consistently charged.
• Avoid leaving lights or accessories on when your car isn't running.
• Have your battery tested regularly by a qualified mechanic.