If your vehicle breaks down, it may benefit from an occasional jump-start to get the battery going again. While this issue is more common in the winter, you can experience a dead battery during any season. Below is a guide to jump-starts and what to expect when you need this power boost.

What Is It?

Car batteries charge themselves when they run. However, if your battery dies, you may need a jump-start. This can either be done by receiving power from another car through jumper cables or by using a portable charger. This sudden voltage provides enough power for the battery to begin charging itself. Most owners who jump-start their vehicle head straight to a mechanic to diagnose and address the underlying power loss.

How Is It Done?

To start this process, turn the ignition key so that the car is completely off. Then, gather jumper cables and a working vehicle or a portable jump box. 

With both cars or the car and the battery off, connect the red alligator clip on the cable to the positive terminal on the dead car’s battery. This nub should have a positive label or plus sign. Then, attach the other red clip to the positive terminal on the working car or portable battery.

Connect the black alligator clip to the negative terminal of the donor battery or car. Finally, attach the last black clip to an unpainted metal part of the vehicle that is not next to the battery. Many people connect this clip to the metal pieces that hold the hood up. This piece serves as a grounding wire to protect each vehicle from sudden electricity volts. 

Now, start the vehicle or battery that is providing power. This transfer of amperage should reboot the battery in the dead car. Let the donor battery and the car sit while running for several moments. Eventually, try to flip the switch on the dead car’s interior light. If it works, start the engine.

If the vehicle starts, disconnect the clips in the reverse order you put them on. Keep the formerly-dead vehicle running for ten to 20 minutes to ensure the battery charges. 

When Do You Need One?

Many car owners might need a jump-start if they left the car lights or radio on accidentally, creating a power drain that killed the battery. Power units that are older than five years likely require replacement because the fluid inside is no longer enough to carry a charge, potentially leaving you stranded. Some vehicles may have failing alternators, spark plug issues, frozen fuel lines, and even dead starters that require jump-starts to get the vehicle to a mechanic.

Car owners who need a jump-start in Mountain Home, AR, should call Discount Towing & Recovery. The expert haulers offer towing, fuel delivery, roadside tire change service, and jump-starts to get you back out on the road. Call the Baxter County towing team at (870) 425-1775 or visit the website for information on their efficient roadside team, used auto parts, and car sales.