Having a drained car battery can be a frustrating experience, especially if you’re in a hurry or far away from any help. However, with a few simple steps, you can get your car up and running again without having to call for assistance. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of starting a car with a drained battery.
1. Gather the necessary tools
Before you begin, make sure you have the following tools handy:
- Jumper cables
- A second vehicle with a fully charged battery
- Safety gloves and goggles (optional but recommended)
2. Position the vehicles
Position the two vehicles so that their batteries are as close together as possible. Make sure both vehicles are turned off and in park or neutral. Engage the parking brakes for added safety.
3. Connect the jumper cables
Open the hoods of both vehicles and locate the batteries. Identify the positive (+) and negative (-) terminals on each battery. Connect the jumper cables in the following order:
- Connect one end of the red cable to the positive terminal of the dead battery.
- Connect the other end of the red cable to the positive terminal of the charged battery.
- Connect one end of the black cable to the negative terminal of the charged battery.
- Connect the other end of the black cable to an unpainted metal surface on the car with the dead battery, away from the battery itself.
4. Start the working vehicle
Start the vehicle with the fully charged battery and let it run for a few minutes. This will help charge the dead battery.
5. Start the dead vehicle
Now, try starting the vehicle with the drained battery. If it doesn’t start, wait a few more minutes and try again. If it still doesn’t start, check the connections and ensure they are secure.
6. Disconnect the jumper cables
Once the dead vehicle starts, let it run for a few more minutes to allow the battery to recharge. Then, carefully disconnect the jumper cables in the reverse order:
- Remove the black cable from the unpainted metal surface of the previously dead vehicle.
- Remove the black cable from the negative terminal of the charged battery.
- Remove the red cable from the positive terminal of the charged battery.
- Remove the red cable from the positive terminal of the previously dead battery.
7. Keep the engine running
After successfully starting your car, keep the engine running for at least 10-15 minutes to allow the battery to recharge further. This will help prevent the battery from draining again too quickly.
8. Get your battery checked
While jump-starting your car can get you back on the road, it’s important to have your battery checked by a professional. A drained battery may be a sign of an underlying issue that needs to be addressed to prevent future problems.
Remember, jump-starting a car should be done with caution. If you’re unsure about any step or if the battery shows signs of damage, it’s best to seek professional help. Safety should always be your top priority.
By following these steps, you can start your car even with a drained battery and get back on the road in no time. Just remember to take the necessary precautions and prioritize your safety throughout the process.