While many of us hope that we never have to jump start our cars, dead batteries can happen unexpectedly and understanding how to properly jump start your vehicle can come in handy. The typically lifespan of a vehicle battery is between 3-5 years, and if you don't keep track of how old your battery is, it can die on you unexpectedly if its come to the end of its life.
However, batteries can also die unexpectedly due to leaving lights or other electrical components on over night or for extended periods of time without your car running. If you do find yourself with a dead battery, jump starting your vehicle can help to at least get your car running so that you can get your car into The Detroit Garage to have your battery replaced.
Here are the steps on how to properly jump start your vehicle:
- First, you will need jumper cables. If you don't own any, you can purchase these at your local auto parts store or online. Large convenience stores such as Target and Walmart may sell these as well.
- You will need an additional vehicle to jump start yours. Have both vehicles facing each other (hood to hood) in Park and with the parking brake on.
- Pop the hood on both vehicles and be sure that both vehicles are turned off.
Attach one of the red clips to the positive terminal of your battery. It has “POS” or “+” on it, or it’s bigger than the negative terminal.
Attach the other red clip to the positive terminal of the other car.
Attach one of the black clips to the negative terminal on the other battery.
Attach the last black clip to an unpainted metal surface on your car that isn’t near the battery.
Start the vehicle that works and let the engine run for a few minutes.
Try to start your vehicle. If it works, don't shut off your engine right away. Drive around for about 15 minutes to recharge your battery.
If you have a dead battery and need assitance, don't hesitate to give us a call here at The Detriot Garage and we can help get your car back and running up again!