What is the method for connecting jumper cables to a car?
3 Answers
The method for connecting jumper cables to a car is: 1. Ensure that the auxiliary battery is 12V and that the negative terminal is already grounded; 2. Connect the jumper cables, being careful not to reverse the positive and negative terminals; 3. Start the engine of the vehicle with the auxiliary battery and let it run at medium speed, then start the engine of the vehicle with the depleted battery; 4. Disconnect the cables in the exact opposite order. A car battery, also known as a storage battery, is a type of battery that works by converting chemical energy into electrical energy. Batteries are categorized into conventional batteries, dry-charge batteries, and maintenance-free batteries. Typically, when people refer to a car battery, they mean a lead-acid battery. The normal service life of a car battery ranges from 1 to 8 years, depending largely on the condition of the vehicle.
Every time I help someone jump-start a car, I always make sure both vehicles are completely turned off before starting. Rushing can lead to short circuits or fires. First, I take out the red cable and clamp one end to the positive terminal of the dead battery (marked with a + sign) and the other end to the positive terminal of the rescue car's battery. Then, I use the black cable, clamping one end to the negative terminal (- sign) of the rescue car's battery. The other end should never be connected directly to the negative terminal of the dead battery. Instead, find a metal part of the car frame, like a bolt under the hood, to avoid sparking or explosion risks. Once everything is connected, start the rescue car's engine and wait two to three minutes to stabilize the current before attempting to start the dead car. Finally, disconnect the cables in reverse order: first remove the black cable from the frame, then the red cable from the dead battery, and lastly the rescue car parts. Always wear insulated gloves and stay away from puddles or damp ground. If anything feels off, stop immediately and check if the battery is leaking or bubbling. Many beginners overlook the connection sequence, and mistakes can damage the car or even cause electric shock. That’s why regular battery maintenance is crucial—prevention is better than cure.
As a young driver who frequently drives, when it comes to jump-starting, I just want it quick: turn off both cars, pull out the cables, clamp the red clip firmly onto the positive terminal of the dead battery, then connect it to the positive terminal of the rescue car. The black clip goes to the negative terminal of the rescue car, and the other end connects to a metal part of the dead car, like a door hinge or suspension arm. Don’t be lazy and connect it directly to the negative terminal to avoid sparks flying. After that, start the rescue car, wait a minute or two for the current to stabilize, then try starting the dead car. Remember the order for removing the cables: first disconnect the black clip from the metal frame of the dead car, then the red clip, and finally the rescue car part. It’s best to perform the whole process on flat ground, away from people or clutter. Also, check the cable quality—thick and rust-proof to avoid aging and breaking. If you connect everything but the car doesn’t start, it might be a loose connection or the battery is completely dead. In that case, having a portable charger on hand is more convenient.
