How to Use Jumper Cables to Start a Car 

Among the major problems that many motorists face is a dead car battery, especially during the winter season or if the car has not been operated for a while. Therefore, it is essential to know how to use jumper cables since this will help a person save time, effort, and money. Jumper cables enable the starting of a car using an operating battery of another automobile — if you want a full walkthrough, check out our guide on how to jump-start a car for a complete step-by-step process. All necessary actions, which should be done by any person, can be easily learned.

As advised on the AAA.com website, jumper cables provide transmission of electricity from an operational battery to a dead one in order to get your engine working again. It is worth mentioning, however, that all procedures must be followed to avoid injuries.

Preparation before Jumper Cables Usage

Before starting the process of charging, one should have:

• High-quality jumper cables
• An additional automobile with a completely charged battery
• Two automobiles parked near each other, but without contact
• Operated parking brakes on both vehicles
• Turned off ignition and electrical devices
• One should check the condition of cables in order to avoid any hazards.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Use Jumper Cables

Step 1: Place the Cars Correctly

Place the cars near enough for the cables to reach the batteries. Ensure the cars do not come into contact with each other. Switch off their engines and take out the keys.

Step 2: Locate the Battery Terminals

There are two terminals in each battery:

1. Positive (+) colored red
2. Negative (-) colored black

Knowing them correctly is vital in the process of connecting the cables.

Step 3: Attach the Red Cable First

Connect one end of the red cable to the positive (+) terminal of the dead battery first, then connect the other end of the same cable to the positive (+) terminal of the good battery.

Connect positive terminals only.

Step 4: Attach the Black Cable Next

Next, attach one black cable to the negative (-) terminal of the good battery.

However, rather than attaching the other end of the black cable to the dead battery, attach it to any unpainted metal part of the engine of the car with the dead battery.

5. Turning on the Working Car

First, turn on the engine of the functioning car. Leave it on for about 5-10 minutes as this will ensure that the dead battery receives some power.

6. Starting the Dead Car

Try starting the dead car now. If it does not work immediately, give it another couple of minutes and try again.

Make sure you leave the engine running for about 20-30 minutes so that the alternator can recharge the battery.

7. Disconnecting the Cables (In Reverse Order)

Disconnect the cables in reverse order:

• The black clamp from the grounding point on the dead car
• The black clamp from the battery of the working car
• The red clamp from the battery of the working car
• The red clamp from the battery of the dead car

Safety Tips Worth Considering

While learning about jumper cables, it is important to pay attention to some safety guidelines:

• Do not let the clamps touch
• Do not connect the cables incorrectly
• Do not use damaged and old jumper cables
• Avoid smoking while performing this procedure
• Keep your hands away from the engine
• Seek professional advice if you are unsure
• Improper use can result in damaging your electrical system.

Things People Often Do Wrong

Many individuals make mistakes when using their jumper cables:

• Using the connections backwards
• Starting a dead battery without letting a working car run
• Disconnecting cables immediately after the jump-start
• Neglecting to check for total damage to the battery
• If you cannot get the car started, it means the battery needs replacing.

Reasons for Which Jumper Cables Will Not Work

Jumper cables are quite useful; however, sometimes, they simply do not work:

• Battery dead or damaged
• Faulty alternator
• Electrical system problems
• Corroded terminals
• Then it becomes necessary to contact roadside assistance.

Conclusion

The ability to connect jumpers is something that everyone needs to know when they become a car owner — similarly, knowing how to change a tire is another must-have skill that can save you in roadside emergencies. It will allow a person to get back on his or her way even when an unexpected battery failure occurs. At the same time, it is just as important not to rush with the process and follow all the safety rules.

According to AAA recommendations, it is crucial to pay close attention to the right order of connecting the cables and the proper procedure of starting the vehicle.

Related Article: Keeping up with routine maintenance like knowing how long does an oil change take can help you avoid bigger car problems down the road.