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When you find yourself stranded with a car that won’t start, a jump-start is one of the most effective ways to get back up and running. Whether you have a portable jump-starter on hand or you call for roadside assistance, you should be equipped with some basic knowledge about the process. Below are answers to four of the most common questions about jump-starting.

The Basics of Jump-Starts

How powerful is a jump-starter?

There are a variety of jump-starters, each with different levels of power. Smaller portable devices may have enough juice to get a car going, but larger vehicles like trucks and RVs will require more powerful choices. If you aren’t sure what kind of device is right for your vehicle, call for roadside assistance. A professional will arrive with the device that’s right for your particular situation.

Are jump-starts required for batteries that read as low voltage?

jump-startsWhen your car battery appears to have low voltage, it’s either reaching the end of its lifespan or has a damaged cell. Most likely a jump-start is imminent if you continue to drive with this battery. A car jump-start will get you back on the road, but it is best to bring your vehicle in for a new battery.

Should you pump the gas during a jump-start?

You may have heard that you should apply the gas pedal during a jump-start. However, this is only effective with certain vehicles. It is usually the other vehicle that should pump their gas pedal, not yours. Newer cars may suffer from electronic interference from the vehicle giving you the jump if you touch your car’s gas pedal. It’s better to idle the car helping you while the jump is in progress.

Will a jump-start recharge a dead battery?

The answer depends on how depleted the battery is. A low battery has a better shot at completely recharging, but relying on your alternator to finish the process can do damage to that critical part of your car. If you know your battery is old or low on power, it is better to recharge or replace it to avoid damaging your alternator.

 

towingIf you need a jump-start, trust Northgate Towing in Cincinnati, OH, for service at any time of day. Cincinnati relies on their roadside assistance and lockout services for help when a breakdown or other disaster hits. When you need towing or roadside service, call (513) 825-8036. You can also visit them online for a full list of services. 

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