Car batteries can be fickle components, and it’s not uncommon to experience a dead battery at the most inconvenient of times. But there’s no need to panic as jumpstarting a car can be a quick and simple process when done correctly. Knowing how to jumper cables to boost a car can save you from the stress of being stranded, and in this comprehensive guide, we’ll provide you with a step-by-step guide about how to boost a car.
What You Will Need to Boost Your Car?
Boosting a car can be very useful when your car battery dies unexpectedly, or you leave the lights on and drain the battery. In order to boost your car, you will need the following items:
- Jumper cables with clamps on both ends.
- A running vehicle that will be used to provide power to jump start your car.
- Safety gloves, safety glasses, and other appropriate protective gear.
- A safe and clear area to boost your car.
Jumper Cables for Boosting Cars
Jumper cables are used to provide a connection between the dead and live batteries in order to transfer power from the running car to the dead car. Jumper cables have two clips on each end, with each clip being either positive or negative. The clips have to be attached in a particular way to avoid accidents and damaging the battery or car. One end of the jumper cable will be connected to the dead battery, while the other end will be connected to the running vehicle’s battery.
How to Boost Your Car Like a Pro: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Get situated
Before you begin boosting your car, you need to ensure that both the vehicles are suitably close to each other. Park the vehicles in such a way that their batteries are as close to each other as possible.
Step 2: Making connections
Once you’re in position, you can start making the necessary connections between the cars. Begin by ensuring that the donor vehicle is switched off, and then connect the positive (red) cable clips to the positive terminals of both batteries.
Step 3: Positive terminals
After the positive terminals are connected, you need to create a connection between the two negative (black) battery terminals. Connect one black clip to the negative terminal of the donor battery, and the other black clip to a metal part of the stalled vehicle.
Step 4: Negative terminals
Once the negative terminals are connected, you’re almost ready to start the car. Before you do so, double-check all of the cable connections to ensure they’re secure and tight.
Step 5: Fire up the donor vehicle
Turn on the engine of the donor vehicle and let it idle for a few minutes. This will allow for the transfer of energy from the donor battery to the stalled battery.
Step 6: Fire up your engine
After a few minutes, try starting the stalled vehicle. If the engine does not start immediately, allow the donor vehicle to idle for a few additional minutes.
Step 7: Wrap-up
Once the stalled vehicle starts, carefully remove the jumper cables in the reverse order in which you attached them. Start by removing the negative cable from the stalled vehicle and ending with the positive cable from the donor vehicle.
Safety Tip When Boosting Your Car
Sparks
Always ensure that the clamps are connected to the correct terminals. The red clamp should connect to the positive (+) terminal, and the black clamp should connect to the negative (-) terminal. If the clamps are reversed, a spark can occur while connecting which can be dangerous and cause a fire.
Damage
Be careful while connecting the cables, make sure they don’t touch any moving parts of the engine. In addition, you should avoid crimping or twisting the cables, as this can also damage the cables and reduce their effectiveness.
Acid
Car batteries use sulfuric acid, which can be dangerous if not handled with care. Even a small amount of this acid can cause severe burns or injuries. Therefore, always use gloves and safety glasses while handling and connecting the battery booster cables. It is also a good idea to work in a well-ventilated area to prevent inhalation of the fumes which can be harmful to your health.
How to Prolong Your Vehicle’s Battery?
Here are some tips on how to prolong your vehicle’s battery:
- Regular maintenance: Always ensure your battery, connectors, and cables are clean and free of corrosion. You should also check for any abnormalities such as cracks or leaks on the battery.
- Keep the battery at the appropriate level of water: In case your battery is non-sealed, you should always check the water levels in each cell and refill them if needed.
- Limit short trips as much as possible: Short trips do not allow the battery to charge efficiently. Whenever possible, try taking longer trips to keep your battery charged.
- Avoid exposure to excessive heat and cold as much as possible: Extreme temperatures can cause the battery to drain and eventually fail earlier than it should. You should always try to park your car in a garage or under shade.
Conclusion
With the right tools, a bit of patience, and attention to detail, boosting a car can be a straightforward and stress-free process. By following our comprehensive guide, you can jumpstart your car safely, successfully and efficiently, allowing you to get back on the road in no time.