When jump-starting a car, always remember to connect the cables in the correct order: positive to positive and negative to a ground (a metal part of the car, not the negative terminal of the dead battery). This prevents sparking and potential battery damage or explosion. Also, ensure both vehicles are off and do not touch each other, and wear eye protection for safety.
Key Points When Jump-Starting a Car
- Connect the red (positive) cable to the positive terminal of the assisting vehicle's battery first, then to the positive terminal of the dead battery.
- Connect the black (negative) cable to the negative terminal of the assisting vehicle's battery, and the other end to an unpainted metal part of the engine block or chassis of the dead vehicle (ground).
- Do not connect the black cable directly to the negative terminal of the dead battery to avoid sparks, which can cause battery damage or explosions due to hydrogen gas.
- Both cars should be turned off during the process.
- Avoid touching the metal parts of the cables and wear protective glasses.
- Remove any jewelry to avoid electric shocks.
- After starting the dead car, disconnect cables in reverse order and let the jumped car run for a while to recharge the battery.
Following these steps ensures a safer and more effective jump-start procedure.