A dead battery happens to everyone. The order of the cables matters, because it keeps sparks away from the battery.
In this article
- Prepare
- Connect in order
- Start and remove
Prepare
Park the cars close, with engines off and parking brakes on. Check that both batteries are 12-volt and free from cracks.
| Step | Action | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Red to dead positive | Starts the circuit |
| 2 | Red to donor positive | Links batteries |
| 3 | Black to donor negative | Completes the circuit |
| 4 | Black to metal on dead car | Keeps sparks away from battery |
Intervals and costs are typical ranges. Your owner’s manual comes first.
Connect in order
Red clamp to the dead battery’s positive terminal, then to the donor’s positive. Black clamp to the donor’s negative, then to bare metal on the dead car, away from the battery.
Sparks and batteries do not mix well.
Start and remove
Start the donor car, wait a few minutes, then start the dead car. Remove the cables in reverse order and drive for at least 20 minutes.
Do it in this order
- Read the manual first
- Check cable condition
- Do not let clamps touch
- Drive for 20 minutes after
Practical tip
A portable jump starter is a handy alternative. It needs no second car and fits in the glovebox.
Bottom line
Follow the order, and consider a portable jump pack for your trunk.
Specifications, prices and rules change. Confirm current details with the manufacturer or the relevant authority before you buy or repair.
