How to Jump-Start a Car

Knowing how to jump-start a car on your own can save you time and money. Just about anyone can learn how to jump-start a car battery safely, and we’ve laid out all the steps! Follow the guide below to learn how to properly jump-start a car with assistance from another driver. If you have any questions, reach out to our service center at (877) 673-7122!

The Proper Way to Jump-Start a Car

Although you can purchase a device which allows you to jump-start a car battery by yourself, most drivers will find that the process is easier with a friend, family member, or neighbor at their side. All you’ll need is a set of jumper cables. Then you’re ready to get started:

1. Park a working vehicle head-to-head with the vehicle that currently has a dead battery. Turn off the working vehicle and make sure to engage both parking brakes.
2. Open the hoods of both vehicles and locate the batteries. Make sure that they are free of corrosion.
3. It’s important to connect the clamps in the proper order: (1) attach the first red clamp to the positive terminal on the dead battery; (2) attach the second red clamp to the positive terminal on the working battery; (3) attach one of the black clamps to the negative terminal on the working battery; (4) connect the last remaining black clamp to any unpainted metal surface on the inoperative vehicle’s frame.
4. Don’t let the clamps touch one another at any point during the process.
5. Start the engine of the vehicle with a working battery. The dead battery should start to charge automatically.
6. Give it a few moments, then try to start the vehicle with the once-dead battery.
7. If it starts up, remember to keep the vehicle on for at least ten minutes! You need to give your alternator time to recharge the battery after a jump.
8. Disconnect the clamps. Start with the black clamp that was attached to the frame, then remove the second black clamp. You’ll then remove both of the red clamps, starting with the clamp on the vehicle that provided the jump.

Jump starting a car by yourself is also possible, but only if you have the proper equipment. A mobile ‘battery’ with clamps attached can provide the necessary charge, so contact our parts department if you’d like to learn more. While you’re here, we can help you stock your in-car tool kit or build a winter emergency car kit of your own.

Roadside Assistance: Your Jump-Start Car Service

What’s easier than learning how to properly jump-start a car? Calling a jump-start car service from your location in Rumson or Colts Neck! If you drive a Land Rover SUV, the brand’s roadside assistance service is your best bet. They’re available 24/7 at 1-800-637-6837. If your problem cannot be solved on the side of the road, towing to your local Land Rover service center is complimentary.

What to Do If Your Car Won’t Jump Start

So, your car won’t jump start. Although there’s no such thing as a battery that’s too dead to jump start, there are several problems that can leave you in the lurch:

• If your battery keeps dying, it’s probably due for replacement. If you recently purchased a new battery, the issue may have to do with your alternator!
• If your battery terminals are caked with corrosion, the cables may unattach. This can prevent your vehicle from receiving a charge–and it might seem like you’re dealing with a dead battery before you start to investigate.
• Even if your battery is receiving a charge, the vehicle may be unable to start if you are dealing with a faulty ignition switch, fuse, or starter. These issues may be at fault if your electrical systems come on but your engine fails to turn over.

Let Our Service Experts Help!

If you decide that you need to replace your battery entirely, you can either schedule service or learn how to install a new battery at home. We’re easy to reach from anywhere near Eatontown or Red Bank, and we’re always happy to answer questions for our customers and neighbors.