How to use jumper cables

When you’re stranded in a parking lot on a chilly evening, fidgeting with your phone while waiting for a friend who’s running a little late, you might suddenly realize your car won’t start. The telltale clicking sound and the dimming dashboard lights serve as an unwelcome reminder–the battery is dead. In such moments, knowing how to use jumper cables can not only eliminate stress but also save the day, allowing you to get back on the road quickly.

To use jumper cables, connect the red (positive) cable to the dead battery’s positive terminal, then attach the other end to the live battery’s positive terminal. Next, connect the black (negative) cable to the live battery’s negative terminal and attach the other end to an unpainted metal surface on the dead vehicle. Start the functioning vehicle, let it run for a few minutes, and then attempt to start the dead car.

Using jumper cables correctly can be a lifesaver in a pinch. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure you do it safely and effectively.

1. Gather Your Equipment: You will need a set of jumper cables and another vehicle with a functioning battery. Make sure both vehicles are turned off before you start connecting the cables.

2. Position the Vehicles: Park the vehicle with the working battery next to the one with the dead battery, ensuring that they do not touch each other. This minimizes the risk of sparks that could lead to an explosion if there’s any gas leaking.

3. Open the Hoods: Open both car hoods and locate the batteries. Typically, the positive terminal is marked with a “+” sign, while the negative terminal is marked with a “-”.

4. Attach the Jumper Cables:

– Begin by connecting one end of the red jumper cable to the positive terminal of the dead battery.

– Then, take the other end of the same red cable and connect it to the positive terminal of the working battery.

– Next, take one end of the black jumper cable and attach it to the negative terminal of the live battery.

– Finally, connect the other end of the black cable to an unpainted metal surface on the dead vehicle (like a bolt or bracket). This grounding step is crucial for safety.

5. Start the Engine: With all connections secure, start the engine of the working vehicle and let it run for a few minutes. This allows the dead battery to gain some charge.

6. Attempt to Start the Dead Vehicle: After a few minutes, try to start the dead vehicle. If it starts, great! If not, wait a bit longer and try again.

7. Disconnect the Cables: Once the dead vehicle is running, carefully remove the cables in the reverse order you attached them (black cable from the grounded point first, then the live battery, followed by the red cable from the working battery, and finally the red cable from the previously dead battery).

8. Drive the Car: Keep the revived vehicle running for at least 20 minutes to allow the alternator time to recharge the battery.

By following these steps, you can effectively use jumper cables to revive a dead car battery and get back on your journey without the worry of being stranded. Always remember to exercise caution to ensure a safe jump-start.