How to Jump-Start a Car: A Beginner’s Guide for Drivers
Why You Can Trust EverQuote
EverQuote powers millions of shopper requests every month, teaming up with industry-leading insurance specialists to address real-world challenges faced by people every day. We partner with the largest insurance providers in the nation, and our content is carefully crafted by experts and reviewed by licensed insurance agents for accuracy and relevance.
Have you ever experienced a dead battery? It's frustrating, especially when you're in the middle of nowhere. The problem is that weak batteries don't always provide obvious signs before going kaput. That's why knowing how to jump start a car is really in your best interests.
Why Knowing How to Jump Start a Car Is Important
Knowing how to properly jump start a car is important because it promotes self-sufficiency — but only if you have a portable jumper. It also allows you to help others in need. Also, sometimes people have jumper cables and are willing to help, but they don't know how. Finally, learning how to jump a car can save time and money because you don't have to wait or pay for roadside assistance.
What You Need: Essential Equipment for Jump Starting
If you want to jump start a car battery, you'll need several things. First, you'll need a working car or a portable jump starter. Second, with a working vehicle, you'll need a set of jumper cables (portable devices typically come with attached cables). Finally, it's a good idea to have gloves and protective eyewear.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Jump Start a Car Safely
Learning how to jump start a car is a straightforward five-step process. Following all the steps in order is essential, especially when attaching the cables.
1. Positioning the Cars
To jump start a car, you must get your vehicle in the correct position. This is typically nose-to-nose, but some cars might have their batteries in their trunks.
The cars shouldn't touch, and there should be enough distance between them for the jumper cables to stretch without pulling. When you feel the distance is good, park your vehicle and apply the parking brakes as extra security.
2. Locating and Cleaning the Terminals
Lift the hoods on both cars, exposing the engine compartment. Locate the batteries, usually toward the front of the engine on the left or right, depending on the manufacturer.
Next, locate the positive and negative terminals — these are clearly labeled "+" for positive and "-" for negative. Depending on the battery's age, you might need to clean the terminals to ensure a strong connection with the jumper cable clamps.
3. Connecting the Cables
Now, it's time to connect the cables. This is the most important part of jump starting a car. The battery cables and clamps should remain separated without touching. If the cables are touching when you start the jump, they can spark, melt, or damage your car.
With both cars turned off, connect one positive (red) clamp to the dead battery's positive (+) terminal. Next, connect the other positive clamp to the positive terminal of the working battery. Then, connect the negative (black) clamp to the working battery's negative (-) terminal. Finally, attach the second negative clamp to a clean, unpainted metal surface in the dead engine compartment, away from the dead battery.
4. Starting Your Engine
With the cables connected, clear any excess wire from moving engine parts. Then, turn your ignition switch to power on your car. Allow your car to idle for a few minutes to charge the other vehicle's battery.
After two to three minutes, try to start the car with the dead battery. If it doesn't start, take the keys out and let your car idle for another 10 to 15 minutes. Try starting the other car again. If it starts, allow both vehicles to idle for a few more minutes.
5. Disconnecting the Cables
After you jump start a car, disconnect the cables and metal clamps. Turn off both vehicles, then remove the clamps in reverse order.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Jump Starting a Car
Knowing how to properly jump start a car means understanding how to avoid common mistakes. Some of the most common pitfalls of jump starting a car include:
- Connecting cables incorrectly
- Turning on both ignitions at the same time
- Not securing clamps to battery terminals
- Touching clamps together
- Ignoring dirty terminals
- Disconnecting in the incorrect order
Making any of these mistakes when you jump start a car can damage both vehicles' electrical components or systems.
What to Do if Your Car Doesn't Start After a Jump
Now that you know how to jump start a car with cables, you might wonder what to do if the jump start fails. If your attempts to jump start a car battery fail, you will likely need a new one. Other possible issues include a faulty starter motor, a failing alternator, or a bad ignition switch. Each of these issues can point to more costly solutions, so it's worth looking for insurance for car repairs that might include some wear and tear.
Preventing Dead Batteries: Tips for Longer Battery Life
Focus on battery health to prevent weak batteries and maintain strong battery levels. For example, try to avoid taking too many short trips. Driving longer distances can be good for your battery. Also, keep the terminals clean, and regularly inspect battery connections. Finally, reduce exposure to extreme temperatures whenever possible.
Stay Protected: Get the Best Car Insurance for Peace of Mind
While standard car insurance coverage doesn't cover the cost of replacing a dead battery, many insurers offer roadside assistance coverage when you need a jump. Knowing how to jump start a car is only one form of protection. Use EverQuote to compare insurance policies that offer roadside assistance.