How Long Should You Keep the Engine Running After a Jump Start?
1 Answers
Generally, when a car needs to be jump-started due to a dead battery, the engine should be kept running for about half an hour before turning it off. The exact duration may vary depending on the remaining charge of the battery. Here's the detailed procedure for jump-starting a car: 1. Take one jumper cable and connect one end to the positive terminal of the donor car's battery, then connect the other end to the positive terminal of the dead battery. 2. Take another jumper cable and connect one end to the negative terminal of the donor car's battery, then connect the other end to an unpainted metal surface on the engine block of the car with the dead battery. 3. Start the donor car, then start the disabled car following normal starting procedures. 4. After successfully starting the disabled car, let it idle for about half an hour to recharge the battery. Always connect the positive terminals first and then the negative terminals when jump-starting; when disconnecting, remove the negative cables first followed by the positive ones. Important notes about car batteries: 1. Disconnect the battery if the car won't be used for an extended period to prevent power drain and battery discharge. 2. Regularly check and maintain the battery's charge level. 3. Avoid using electronic devices in the car when the engine is off. 4. Do not perform any battery operations in high-temperature conditions. 5. When replacing the battery, it's best to use an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) battery.
