What to Do When the Car Battery Is Dead and Won't Start?
2 Answers
If your car won't start due to a dead battery, here are some self-rescue methods: 1. Push-start: This method only works for manual transmission cars, provided the battery still has some charge and the terrain is suitable. If there are no passengers, try asking a passerby for help. First, engage first gear, press the clutch, turn the key to the ACC position, and have someone push the car from behind. Once the car gains speed, release the clutch, and the car should start due to inertia. 2. Jump-start: If you don't have an emergency starter, you can ask a nearby car owner for help to jump-start your car. You'll need two battery cables. Bring the two cars as close as possible—usually, the battery is under the front hood. Locate the batteries in both cars, identify the positive and negative terminals (the positive is usually marked with a red cover and a '+' sign). Remove the terminal covers, attach the red cable clamp to the positive terminal, then the black cable to the negative terminal. Once all four clamps are connected, the jump-start is complete. After connecting the cables, start the dead car. 3. Towing: The last method is towing. Find a sturdy tow rope, securely tie the front and rear of both cars, and then proceed to tow. Start slowly, ensuring both cars move at the same speed, and always prioritize safety.
The other day my car suddenly wouldn't start either, with all dashboard lights off, just hearing the starter clicking. This was clearly a completely dead battery. I quickly pulled out the jumper cables from the trunk and asked a neighbor's car for help. Remember to clamp the red clip to your own car battery's positive terminal (+) first, then the black clip to the rescue car's negative terminal, and finally clamp it to a metal part of your own car's engine - never directly to the dead battery's negative terminal! After starting, let the engine run for half an hour to recharge. It's most convenient to keep an emergency power pack in the trunk, which can provide temporary assistance like a phone power bank. Also, remember to turn off headlights and AC after turning off the engine - especially in winter when heated seats consume a lot of power.
