Part 2
In Part 1 of this two-part blog series on the car battery, we covered some important facts about the humble car battery.
We also covered some of the easy to identify signs of battery trouble you might come across. In Part 2 of the series, we will look at how you can jump start your car battery using jumper cables.
Signs You Have a Dead Battery on Your Hands
Before you decide to jump start the car, it is important to identify if the battery is the culprit behind your car not starting. Consider the following:
- Usually working lights, as well as other electrical accessories, are a strong indication of whether the battery is weak or dead.
- When you turn the key in the ignition the car sputters and turns over, the problem is elsewhere.
- The car is unresponsive when you turn the key in the ignition – car battery issue.
- You only hear a clicking sound when you turn the key in the ignition and nothing else – car battery issue.
How to Jump Start a Vehicle with Jumper Cables
It is always an astute idea to carry jumper cables in your car. You never know when you might need them! Keeping this mind, here is what you need to do to jump start your car with jumper cables.
First, check the battery condition – if it is leaking, corroded, or displays other signs of damage it is best to consult with an outstanding mechanic. If you don’t notice any of these issues, then it is ok to go ahead and start. Do the following:
- Get rid of loose clothing as it can get caught in the engine.
- Ensure the headlights and other electronics in the car are turned off.
- Park your car close to the source car so the jumper cables can connect easily with the battery in both cars.
- Turn off the engines of both cars, and make sure the keys are not in the ignition.
- Pop the hood, locate the batteries (either near the front or to one side of the engine), and locate both the positive (+) and negative (-) terminals on the car batteries.
- Connect one end of the red cable with the (+) terminal of the car with the working battery and connect the other end to the (+) terminal of the car with the dead battery.
- Connect one end of the black cable to the (-) terminal on the car with the working battery and connect the other end to the (-) terminal of the car with the dead battery.
- The cables should be at a safe distance from any moving parts of the car engine.
- Start the car with the good battery and let it idle for a couple of minutes – this will allow the dead battery to charge a little.
- After a minute or two passes, start the car with the dead battery and remove the jumper cables – first remove the black cable and then the red cable.
- Be sure to keep the car (the one with the dead battery) running for a minimum of 30 minutes.
It is best to put the jumped car on the charger to allow the battery to completely charge. If you don’t have a car battery charge, then drive to your nearest car repair service center and have the battery recharged.
The Risk in Waiting
We will always recommend that you carry out preventive maintenance and follow simple rules to extend the longevity of your car battery life. If you suspect your battery is weak, then it is best to have it checked up as soon as possible.
If the condition is left unattended for a long time, it can impact the car performance in other areas such as leading to issues with the electrical system. In which case, you might end up spending a lot more than what it would cost to simply replace the battery.
Meridian Automotive – Professional Car Repair Service You Can Trust!
If you have been facing car battery issues, or if your car battery is draining too quickly, then it might be time to have it checked-up by the standout and reliable mechanics at Meridian Automotive.
If you are looking for professional car repairs service give us a call at (208) 297-5573 or schedule an online appointment today!
