Getting A Jump Start On Winter

The winter presents a multitude of obstacles for driving, as well as for general car maintenance. From driving in snowy conditions to cleaning ice off a car in the bitter cold, Michigan winters can make driving very difficult. Often times the cold can make it challenging for a car to start and it will need to be jumped.

Preparation & Safety Tips:

  • Align cars close enough for cables to reach each engine without the vehicles touching
  • Turn off both cars
  • Locate battery terminals in both vehicles
  • Untangle jumper cables
  • Make sure red and black clamps never touch

Action Steps:

  • Connect the red (positive) cable to the dead car’s battery positive jump-start terminal
  • Connect the other end of the red cable to the live car’s positive jump-start terminal
  • Connect the black (negative) cable to the live car’s negative jump-start terminal
  • Connect the other clamp of the black cable to an unpainted metal part of the dead car’s engine
  • Start the live car’s engine and wait about 5 minutes before starting up the dead car

Clamp Removal:

If the dead car starts, disconnect the black clamp connected to the unpainted grounded metal on the dead car’s engine. Then disconnect the black cable connected to the live car’s battery. Finally disconnect the red cable from the good car’s battery and disconnect the red cable from the dead car’s battery.

Drive around for at least 15-20 minutes to ensure the battery is fully charged before turning off your car. It’s always a good idea to refer to the owner’s manual as there may be variations for different models of cars. Jumping a car can be dangerous if it is not done properly so follow these tips to avoid any injuries!

 

 Contributed by Harry Hadden