How to Jump Start a Dead Car Battery the Right Way
Whether you’re just running errands around downtown Wichita this weekend or headed to the Wichita Riverfest, the last thing you want is to start your day with a dead car battery. When your car refuses to start, a dead or weak battery often causes the problem. Fortunately, jump starting a battery is a quick and effective solution. At Tracy’s Tire Pros, we believe that knowing how to handle a dead battery can help you avoid a tow and save the day. So, let’s take look at the right way to jump start your battery.
So, What You’ll Need to Jump Start a Car
First, you’ll need a working vehicle with a charged battery. Additionally, grab a set of jumper cables that are in good condition. Before doing anything else, make sure both vehicles are parked close together, but not touching.
Then, Follow These Safe Steps to Jump Start
Next, turn off both vehicles and remove the keys from the ignitions. After that, open the hoods and locate the batteries and terminals.
Now, attach the red (positive) clamp to the dead battery’s positive terminal. Immediately after, connect the other red clamp to the charged battery’s positive terminal. Then, attach the black (negative) clamp to the charged battery’s negative terminal. Lastly, connect the remaining black clamp to an unpainted metal surface on the dead car—never to the battery itself.
Once all clamps are secure, start the working car and let it run for a few minutes. Then, try starting the car with the dead battery. If it starts, let both engines run for at least five more minutes.
So, Here’s What to Do After the Jump
After a successful start, remove the jumper cables in the reverse order. Always begin with the black clamp on the grounded metal. Then, remove the black clamp from the working battery. Next, remove the red clamp from the working battery, followed by the red clamp from the previously dead one.
Even though your car is running again, drive it for at least 15 to 20 minutes to help recharge the battery. However, if the battery dies again soon after, the battery or alternator may need replacement.
When to See the Mechanics at Tracy’s Tire Pros
If you notice any of the following, call Tracy’s Tire Pros and let their ASE certified experts help you get back on the road.
- If your jump start didn’t work at all, the battery may be completely dead
- Although the car started, it stalled again shortly after
- Even if the lights work, the engine doesn’t turn over at all
- If jump starting becomes a frequent need, the battery may no longer hold a charge
Avoid the Dead Battery Dilemma
If your battery keeps letting you down, don’t wait until you’re stranded again. Instead, visit Tracy’s Tire Pros on East First Street for a full battery check and reliable service. Our team will make sure your car is road-ready—every time you turn the key. And they can give you car care tips that will help prevent dealing with a dead car battery.
Tracy’s Tire Pros can help you with any automotive issues that you may have. And they have three locations for your convenience: West Maple Street auto care and auto repair, East First Street N. and West 21st Street N. And, Tracy’s Automotive is a proud dealer for Jasper Engines and Vogue Performance Exhaust systems.
