How To Jump-Start A Vehicle

When someone’s heart stops beating, a medical official might use a defibrillator to shock them and restore their heartbeat. This is similar to jump-starting a vehicle when its battery is weak or worn out.

Big Valley Auto Auction has been in the auto industry for more than 15 years. And although we can’t provide information on how to save a life, we can tell you how you can jump-start your vehicle. 

In this article, you’re going to learn how to jump-start a vehicle, what equipment you’ll need, the steps, and the safety precautions you should take.

After reading this article, you’ll have the information needed to know how to properly jump-start a vehicle.

What Equipment Do I Need to Jump-Start a Vehicle?

There are 2 things you’ll need to jump-start your vehicle (and 1 optional).

• Jumper cables
• A second vehicle with a charged battery
• Protective gear (optional, but recommended)

Jumper Cables

These are cables with clamps on both ends, usually color-coded (red for positive and black for negative). Ensure they are long enough to reach between the two vehicles.

A Second Vehicle

This vehicle will provide the power needed to start the dead battery.

Protective Gear (optional)

Gloves and safety glasses can protect you from potential sparks or battery acid.

What Are the Steps to Jump-Start a Vehicle?

There are 5 steps to jump-starting a vehicle:

Park the Vehicles 

Position the vehicle with the charged battery close enough to the vehicle with the dead battery so that the jumper cables can reach both batteries. Make sure both vehicles are turned off.

Attach the Jumper Cables

• Red Clamp to Dead Battery: Attach one red clamp to the positive (+) terminal of the dead battery.

• Red Clamp to Charged Battery: Attach the other red clamp to the positive (+) terminal of the charged battery.

• Black Clamp to Charged Battery: Attach one black clamp to the negative (–) terminal of the charged battery.

• Black Clamp to Ground: Attach the other black clamp to an unpainted metal surface on the engine block or chassis of the vehicle with the dead battery (away from the battery).

Start the Vehicles

• Start the engine of the vehicle with the charged battery and let it run for a few minutes.

• Attempt to start the engine of the vehicle with the dead battery. (If it doesn't start, wait a few more minutes and try again.)

Remove the Jumper Cables (in reverse order)

• Remove the black clamp from the grounded metal surface on the dead battery's vehicle.

• Remove the black clamp from the negative (–) terminal of the charged battery.

• Remove the red clamp from the positive (+) terminal of the charged battery.

• Remove the red clamp from the positive (+) terminal of the previously dead battery.

Run the Engine 

• Let the vehicle with the newly started engine run for at least 15-20 minutes to recharge its battery.

What Safety Precautions Should I Take When Jump-Starting a Vehicle?

• Wear Safety Goggles and Gloves
• Remove metal jewelry

Wear Safety Goggles and Gloves

Safety goggles and gloves can protect your eyes and hands from potential acid splashes or sparks.

Remove Metal Jewelry

Avoid wearing rings, bracelets, watches, or other metal items to prevent electrical shocks and short circuits.

Do I Know How to Jump-Start a Vehicle?

Jump-starting a vehicle isn’t as rewarding as jump-starting someone else’s heartbeat, but it’s still a good skill to have. Knowing how to jump-start a vehicle and the equipment needed can make your car owning experience easier.

Whether you’re a car dealer or a regular car owner, you can use this article as a step-by-step guide to help you jump-start your vehicle.

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