GUIDE TO JUMP STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

GUIDE TO JUMP STARTING YOUR VEHICLE
If you own a vehicle, you've likely experienced the frustration of a dead battery. Jumpstarting your vehicle can be a quick and easy fix. Still, it's essential to do it correctly to avoid damaging your vehicle's electrical system or injuring yourself. In this beginner-friendly guide, we'll walk you through the steps involved in jumpstarting a vehicle and provide tips from an auto shop to help keep your vehicle running smoothly.
STEP 1: GATHER MATERIALS
First, you’ll want to make sure everything is ready to go. If you don’t have anything on this list, hopefully, the person who is jumpstarting your car does!
- Jumper cables (which can be purchased at most auto parts stores)
- A vehicle with a charged battery to provide the jumpstart
- Make sure the two vehicles are parked close enough to each other that the jumper cables can reach both batteries.
If you’re in a situation where your car battery can’t be reached, it may be necessary to call a tow truck for help. Usually, they move your vehicle if you do not get to it, and they’ll be able to give you a jump start!
STEP 2: CONNECT THE JUMPER CABLES
Now comes the tricky part. Bookmark this blog or a video if you’re ever in this scenario!
- Connect the red cable to the positive terminal on the dead battery. Make sure the cable is securely attached to the battery post.
- Connect the red cable's other end to the charged battery's positive terminal. Again, make sure the cable is securely attached.
- Connect the black cable to the negative terminal on the charged battery.
- Connect the other end of the black cable to an unpainted metal surface on the engine block or frame of the dead vehicle. Do not connect the black cable to the dead battery's negative terminal.
While it’s a good idea to memorize this, it’s always better to double-check if you’re unsure. Connecting the wrong things might result in sparks, fire, or frying your vehicle.
STEP 3: START THE ENGINE
Now, the person helping you out will help charge your battery.
- Start the vehicle's engine with the charged battery and let it run for a few minutes. This will allow the battery to charge the dead battery.
- After a few minutes, try to start the engine of the dead vehicle. If it starts, remove the jumper cables in the reverse order you connected them.
If your vehicle doesn’t start, this is when you’ll need to start making a backup plan.
STEP 4: REMOVE THE JUMPER CABLES
After this, it’s time to remove all the cables.
- Disconnect the black cable from the metal surface of the dead vehicle.
- Disconnect the black cable from the negative terminal on the charged battery.
- Disconnect the red cable from the positive terminal on the charged battery.
- Disconnect the red cable from the positive terminal on the dead battery.
Make sure to avoid crossing any of these or accidentally putting them together!
STEP 5: LET THE ENGINE RUN
After disconnecting the cables, let the car run for a few minutes so the battery can charge.
- After the dead vehicle has been jumpstarted, let the engine run for at least 15 minutes. This will give the battery time to recharge.
- If the engine does not start or stalls after jumpstarting, you may have a problem with the alternator or another part of the electrical system. In this case, having your vehicle inspected by a professional mechanic is best.
- In conclusion, jumping a vehicle is a simple process that can get your vehicle running again if you have a dead battery. Remember to follow these steps carefully to avoid injury or damage to your vehicle's electrical system. If you're unsure how to jump a vehicle, having a professional mechanic do it for you is best.
After you’re up and running, we’d highly advise making an appointment with your local mechanic–you can contact us or make an appointment here if you’re nearby.
CONSTANT BATTERY ISSUES MEAN SOMETHING NEEDS ATTENTION
As an auto shop, we want to remind you that if your vehicle needs constant jumpstarts, it may be time for a new battery. Jumpstarting your vehicle frequently can put a strain on your electrical system and could cause damage over time. We recommend having your battery checked regularly to ensure it is functioning correctly.
If you need help with what's going on with your vehicle or if it's experiencing electrical issues, bring it to our shop for a diagnosis. Our professional mechanics can help identify the problem and provide the best solution. Don't hesitate to contact us for assistance; we're here to help keep your vehicle running smoothly and safely.
WE CAN HELP WITH YOUR BATTERY AND MORE!
If you are in the area of Cincinnati, Ohio, Contact Dubwerx today for an appointment with our specialist technicians! And don't forget to follow us on Facebook for news and updates. We look forward to meeting you and your Audi, Volkswagen, or Porsche. We are located at 6323 Madison Rd. Cincinnati, OH 45227, our hours are Mon - Fri: 8:00 AM - 5:30 PM.









