There’s nothing like being in a rush, getting into your car, turning the key (or pressing a button), and all you get is a sad clicking sound. Now you’re sitting there with a flat battery and no idea how to jump-start a car or travel back in time to the moment you snoozed your alarm. Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered! Here’s how to give your dead car battery the little jump-start it needs!

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Steps to Jump-Start a Car

Step 1: Get Your Equipment

  • A working car with a fully charged battery
  • A set of jumper cables
  • A little patience

Step 2: Line Up Both Cars

Park the working car close enough for the cables to reach without the two cars touching. Ensure both vehicles are in neutral, all lights are turned off, accessories are unplugged, and hand brakes are engaged. Turn off both engines.

Step 3: Connect the Jumper Cables

  • Red to dead: Attach the red (positive) clamp to the dead battery’s positive terminal.
  • Red to good: Attach the other end of the red clamp to the working battery’s positive terminal.
  • Black to good: Attach the black (negative) clamp to the working battery’s negative terminal.
  • Black to metal: Attach the final black clamp to an unpainted metal part on the engine block or chassis of the dead car.

Pro tip: It is essential to always consult your car's user manual, as battery specifications can vary between different vehicles.

Step 4: Start Your Engines

  • Start the working car's engine and let it run for a few minutes.
  • Then, try starting the dead car. If it roars back to life, success! If not, wait a few more minutes and try again.

Step 5: Remove the Cables (In reverse order)

  • Black from metal
  • Black from good battery
  • Red from good battery
  • Red from dead battery

Step 6: Keep It Running

Once your car is running, keep it running for at least 15 minutes or take it for a spin around the block to recharge the battery. If the battery dies again, you may need a new one.

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Cover For Car Parts

Now that you know how to bring your car back to life, why not jump-start your cover with an extended car warranty from dotsure.co.za? A flat battery is one thing, but a mechanical or electrical failure could leave you stuck for much longer (and with a pricey repair bill). Get a quote today and drive with a warranty, not worry!