How to Jump-Start a Car

If you are out and about in Maple Shade and your vehicle won’t start, chances are that you will need to jump-start the battery. Not sure how to jump-start a car? It’s actually quite simple. Below, Holman Toyota has provided this guide to show you how to jump-start a car in no time. 

What is the Proper Way to Jump-Start a Car?

Before you can jump-start your car, you will need to locate a set of jumper cables and have another driver who can assist you. If you do not have one or the other, you can contact a jump-start car service like AAA. If you do have what you need, simply follow the steps below:

1. The vehicle that has the working battery should park facing the vehicle with the depleted battery. The vehicle should be turned off, and both parking brakes should be engaged.
2. Locate the battery in each vehicle. Some models require you to remove a plastic hood to expose the battery terminals.
3. Find the positive and negative terminals. All terminals should be clean and corrosion-free. 
4. Attach the red clamp to the positive post on the depleted battery.
5. Uncoil the battery cable and attach the other red clamp to the positive terminal on the working battery.
6. Connect the black clamp to the negative post on the working battery. 
7. The last clamp should be connected to an unpainted metal surface on the frame of your car. 
8. When the jumper cables are connected properly and secure, start the engine of the vehicle with the good battery first. Then, start the car with the depleted battery. 
9. Once the dead battery has been jump-started, take the cables off carefully in the reverse order that they were placed on. Shut off the car that was used to help jump-start the depleted battery.
10. Do not turn the jump-started car off right away. It should stay running for at least 10 minutes to prevent the battery from dying again. 

Troubleshooting Tips

What happens if your car won’t jump-start? This could be a sign that you need to replace the battery. Because this problem can also signal a bigger issue with your vehicle, try troubleshooting the problem before bringing the vehicle to the Holman Toyota service center. 

1. If you only hear a clicking sound when you try to start the car, the issue could be caused by a malfunctioning starter.
2. If the electrical systems of the car turn on, but the engine fails to turn over, there are a couple of likely culprits. This problem could be caused by the ignition switch, battery, starter, or a fuse. It is best to have the issue diagnosed by a mechanic. 
3. It is also possible that the car did not run long enough after receiving the jump-start.It needs time to recharge fully after it’s been drained.

Holman Toyota Delivers Trusted Auto Service in Mount Laurel

Now that you know how to jump-start your car, you may have other questions about automotive service. Contact the team at Holman Toyota, and be sure to take a look at our rotating service specials.