You turn the key, and nothing happens. What could it be? Is it the engine or maybe the electrical system?

A dead battery can leave you stranded and frustrated, but fear not! Jumpstarting your car is a relatively simple process with the right tools and know-how. Here's a detailed guide to get you back on the road quickly and safely:

Before You Begin:

Safety first!

Park both vehicles on level ground with the parking brakes engaged and engines off. Turn off all lights and accessories. Ensure both vehicles are not touching.

Gather your supplies

You'll need jumper cables in good condition, with sturdy clamps and insulated wires. Rubber gloves are recommended for added protection.

Identify the batteries

Locate the batteries in both vehicles. They're usually under the hood, secured with a bracket. Look for terminals marked with positive (+) and negative (-).

Connecting the Cables

Start with the positive terminal

Attach the red (positive) clamp of one jumper cable to the positive terminal of the dead battery. Ensure the clamp makes a good, clean connection.

Connect the other positive terminal

Attach the other end of the red clamp to the positive terminal of the good battery.

Negative terminal next

Attach the black (negative) clamp of one jumper cable to the negative terminal of the good battery.

Connect the final clamp

With caution, attach the remaining black clamp to a solid, unpainted metal grounding point on the dead vehicle. This could be a bolt or bracket on the engine block, away from any moving parts or fuel lines. NEVER connect it directly to the negative terminal!

Jump Starting Time

Start the good car

Ask the driver of the good car to start their engine and let it run for a few minutes to allow its battery to build up some charge.

Attempt to start the dead car

While the good car is running, try starting your car. If it doesn't start right away, wait 30 seconds and try again. Do not crank for more than 10 seconds at a time to avoid overheating the starter motor.

Success!

If your car starts, remove the jumper cables in the reverse order they were attached: black from the dead car, black from the good car, red from the good car, and finally, red from the dead car.

Let it charge

Keep the good car running for at least 5-10 minutes to allow your battery to charge further. Take this opportunity to inspect your battery for any signs of damage or corrosion.

Test drive

Take your car for a short drive to ensure the battery is holding a charge. If the car starts to die again, the battery may need replacement.

The Top 3 Battery Busting Culprits

A dead car battery can leave you stranded in frustration, wondering what gremlin caused the demise. While the reasons can be many, three culprits top the list, each with their own signature calling card:

1. Battery Aging 

Like a faithful friend nearing retirement, car batteries have a lifespan, typically lasting 3-5 years. As they age, their ability to hold a charge diminishes, leading to sluggish starts and eventually, complete failure.

2. Excessive Energy Users

Do you leave your dome light on, indulge in extended accessory marathons, or take frequent short trips? These seemingly harmless habits can be energy vampires for your battery. Short trips don't give the alternator enough time to fully recharge the battery, leading to a gradual depletion of its reserves. Moderation is key to keeping your battery's energy levels healthy.

3. The Temperature Tormentor

Extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, can wreak havoc on your battery. Hot summers accelerate the chemical reactions within the battery, speeding up its degradation. Conversely, frigid winters make it harder for the battery to deliver the necessary cranking power, leaving you stranded in the cold. Parking in moderate temperatures or using a battery maintainer during extreme weather can help mitigate these effects.

If you're having trouble with the jump start, don't worry! Just call Mike's Auto Service Center, and we will schedule you for a visit - it's as simple as that.