Understanding the Basics of Jump Starting a Car Battery
Car batteries can die due to several reasons, including leaving the headlights or interior lights on, extreme temperatures, or old age. While waiting for professional help to come, the most common and easiest solution to revive a dead battery is through jump-starting. Before you start the process, understanding the fundamentals of the process is crucial to avoid harming yourself or damaging the vehicle.
What You Need to Jump Start a Car Battery
Before attempting to jump start a car battery, you need several items. These include a jumper cable, a fully operational battery, and a pair of safety gloves. Consider carrying a safety guide or manual in your car’s glove compartment to refer to in case of a dead battery emergency.
Steps to Jump Start a Car Battery
Jump-starting a car battery involves connecting the dead battery to a fully operational battery with jumper cables. Follow these steps to safely jump start your car:
- Start by ensuring that both car engines are turned off before connecting the cables
- Attach one end of the red jumper cable to the positive terminal of the dead battery
- Connect the other end of the red jumper cable to the positive terminal of the fully operational battery
- Attach one end of the black jumper cable to the negative terminal of the fully operational battery
- Connect the other end of the black jumper cable to a grounded, metal surface on the stalled vehicle
- Start the engine of the fully operational vehicle and let it run for two to three minutes
- Turn on the engine of the stalled car and let it run for at least 20 minutes to recharge the battery
Precautions to Take When Jump Starting a Car Battery
While jump-starting a car battery can be an uncomplicated process, it comes with several risks. Here are some safety precautions to consider:
- Wear safety gloves and safety goggles to protect your eyes and hands from electrical charges and battery acid
- Ensure that the cables are connected loosely before starting any engine to prevent the risk of electric shocks
- Avoid placing the black jumper cable near the battery of the stalled vehicle
- Do not attempt to jump start a damaged battery or one with leaking acid
Risks of Jump Starting a Car Battery
Jump starting a car battery has its risks which include causing significant damage or injuries to yourself or others around you. These risks include:
- Spark from the battery or engine that can ignite fuel fumes, causing an explosion or fire
- Connecting the battery cables wrongly, resulting in severe damages to the electrical system, the vehicle’s onboard computer or worse still, electric shocks
- Acid burns and damage from the battery acid that can cause blindness and severe skin burns
