How to jump-start a car
A jump start gets a car with a flat battery running using another car's battery or a jump pack. Connecting in the right order avoids sparks near the battery.
DifficultyEasy
Time10–15 min
Tools
- Jumper cables or a jump starter pack
Step by step
- Park the donor car close, without the cars touching. Switch off both ignitions and all accessories.
- Connect the red clamp to the positive (+) terminal of the flat battery.
- Connect the other red clamp to the positive (+) terminal of the donor battery.
- Connect the black clamp to the negative (−) terminal of the donor battery.
- Connect the last black clamp to an unpainted metal point on the engine or chassis of the car with the flat battery, away from the battery.
- Start the donor car and let it run for a few minutes.
- Start the car with the flat battery. If it doesn't start, wait a few minutes and try again; don't crank for more than about 10 seconds at a time.
- Remove the cables in reverse order.
- Drive for at least 30 minutes, or charge the battery, and have it tested.
Safety: Never jump a battery that is cracked, leaking or frozen.
Safety: Check the owner's manual: some cars have dedicated jump-start terminals under the bonnet.
Symptoms this can fix
Procedures differ between vehicles. Check your vehicle's service information for specifications, torque values and any special steps.