How to Jump a Car Battery

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to safely jump-start a car battery using another vehicle:

Preparing to Jump Start

Bring the Engines Close: Position the working car close enough to the car with the dead battery that the jumper cables can easily reach both batteries without being stretched too tightly. Make sure the vehicles are not touching.
Shut off Power: Turn off the engines and all electrical accessories in both vehicles. This includes headlights, radio, and interior lights.

Connect Positive to Positive: Attach one red clamp of the jumper cables to the positive (+) terminal of the dead car's battery. Then, connect the other red clamp to the positive (+) terminal of the working car's battery.
Connect Negative to Negative: Attach one black clamp of the jumper cables to the negative (-) terminal of the working car's battery. The other black clamp should be attached to an unpainted metal surface of the car with the dead battery, such as a bolt or metal bracket, away from the battery. Do not connect directly to the negative terminal of the dead battery.
- Important: Double-check that all connections are secure and that the clamps do not touch each other.

Safety First: Ensure all cables are clear of moving parts and that you are ready to start the vehicle.
Start the Working Car: Start the engine of the working car and let it run for a few minutes. This helps to transfer power to the dead battery.
Start Your Car: Now, try starting the car with the dead battery. If it doesn't start immediately, wait a few more minutes and try again.

Disconnect the Cables: Once your car starts, disconnect the cables in the reverse order that you connected them:
- Remove the black clamp from the unpainted metal surface of the formerly dead car.
- Remove the black clamp from the negative terminal of the working car's battery.
- Remove the red clamp from the positive terminal of the working car's battery.
- Remove the red clamp from the positive terminal of the formerly dead car's battery.
- Caution: Be careful not to let the clamps touch each other or any metal parts of the cars during removal.

Keep your car running for at least 15-20 minutes to allow the battery to recharge. It is recommended to drive for a longer period if possible.
If your car doesn't start or the problem persists, it's advisable to consult a mechanic to check for other issues.