how to attach jumper cables to a car

[EliAnn]

To safely attach jumper cables and jump-start a car, you need a working donor vehicle and the cables themselves. The core process involves connecting the cables in a specific, safe sequence to transfer power from the good battery to the dead one. The correct order is crucial to prevent electrical arcing or damage to either vehicle's sensitive electronics.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Position the Vehicles: Park the donor car with the good battery close to the disabled car, but ensure they are not touching. Engage both parking brakes and turn the ignitions to the "OFF" position. Turn off all accessories (radio, lights, A/C).

2. Identify the Terminals: Open both hoods and locate the batteries. Identify the positive (+) and negative (-) terminals on each. They are usually marked in red (positive) and black (negative). Clean any heavy corrosion from the terminals if possible.

3. Connect the Red Clips First: This is the critical sequence. Attach one RED (positive) clamp to the positive (+) terminal of the DEAD battery. Next, attach the other RED (positive) clamp to the positive (+) terminal of the GOOD battery.

4. Connect the Black Clips Carefully: Attach one BLACK (negative) clamp to the negative (-) terminal of the GOOD battery. For the final connection, DO NOT attach the last black clamp to the negative terminal of the dead battery. Instead, clamp it to an unpainted, solid metal part of the disabled car's engine block or chassis. This acts as a ground and minimizes the risk of a spark near the battery, which could potentially ignite battery gases.

5. Start the Donor Vehicle: Start the engine of the donor car and let it run for a few minutes. This allows its alternator to begin charging the dead battery.

6. Attempt to Start the Dead Car: Try to start the car with the dead battery. If it starts, leave it running. If it doesn't, wait a few more minutes and try again.

7. Disconnect in Reverse Order: Once the car is running, carefully disconnect the cables in the exact reverse order you connected them:

   • Remove the black clamp from the ground on the jumped car.
   • Remove the black clamp from the donor car's negative terminal.
   • Remove the red clamp from the donor car's positive terminal.
   • Remove the red clamp from the jumped car's positive terminal.

Drive the jumped car for at least 20-30 minutes to allow the alternator to recharge the battery fully. If the battery dies again soon after, it may be old or faulty and need replacement.

Common Causes of Battery Failure	Typical Symptoms	Recommended Action After Jump-Start
Leaving headlights or interior lights on overnight	Clicking sound, no engine crank, dim lights	Drive for 30+ minutes to recharge
Extreme cold weather reducing battery capacity	Slow cranking, dashboard lights flicker	Have battery tested at an auto parts store
Old battery (typical lifespan 3-5 years)	Battery warning light on dashboard	Consider proactive battery replacement
Faulty alternator not charging the battery	Electrical issues while driving	Seek immediate professional diagnosis

[McBlakely]

My dad taught me this: red to dead, red to good, black to good, then black to metal. That rhyme has saved me more than once. The key is that last step—find a shiny bolt or metal bracket away from the battery for the final black clamp. It keeps sparks away from the battery gas. After it starts, don't just shut it off. Drive around for a good half-hour to get some charge back in there.

[Catalina]

The most important thing is safety. A mistake can cause a spark or damage your car's computer. Always double-check that the red and black clamps are on the correct terminals. Never let the clamps touch each other when they're connected to a battery. If you see any leakage, cracks, or discoloration on the dead battery, do not attempt a jump-start. It could be dangerous. In that case, calling for a professional tow or roadside assistance is the safest choice.