How to Jump-Start Safely
What You'll Need
A set of jumper cables, a working vehicle with a charged battery, and safety gloves and eye protection if you have them.
Position the Vehicles
Park the working vehicle close enough for the cables to reach both batteries, but never let the vehicles touch. Turn off both engines, headlights, and accessories.
Connect the Cables in the Right Order
Order matters — follow these steps carefully:
- Red clamp to the dead battery's positive terminal
- Red clamp to the good battery's positive terminal
- Black clamp to the good battery's negative terminal
- Black clamp to an unpainted metal surface on the dead car's engine block — never the negative terminal
Start the Working Vehicle
Let it run for a few minutes to charge the dead battery, then try starting the dead vehicle.
Remove the Cables in Reverse Order
Black clamp from the dead car, black from the good car, red from the good car, then red from the dead car.
Let Your Car Run
Drive for at least 20 minutes to let the alternator recharge the battery. If the car won't start again, the battery may need replacement.
When to Call a Professional
If your battery keeps dying, you hear clicking but the engine won't turn over, or you smell rotten eggs near the battery, it's time for a professional inspection. Corroded terminals, a failing alternator, or an old battery all need expert attention.
