JUMP-STARTING YOUR CAR

 WARNING !

Consult the manufacturer's service manual for procedures and precautions when jump-starting late model vehicles with electronic control systems.  Excessive battery voltages can damage sensitive electronic components.

 STEP 1

Make sure the two vehicles are not touching each other.  The excessive current flow through the vehicle's bodies can damage the small ground straps that attach the engine block to the frame.  These small wires are designed to carry only 30 amperes.  If the vehicles are touching, as much as 400 amperes may be carried through them.

For each vehicle, engage the parking brake and put the transmission in neutral or park.

Turn off the ignition switch and all accessories, on both vehicles. 

Attach one end the positive jumper cable to the disabled battery's positive terminal.

Connect the other end of the positive jumper cable to the booster battery's terminal. 

Attach one end of the negative jumper cable to the booster battery's negative terminal.

Attach the other end of the negative jumper cable to an engine ground on the disabled vehicle. 

Attempt to start the disable vehicle.  If the disabled vehicle does not readily start, start the jumper vehicle and run it at a fast idle to prevent excessive current draw.

Once the disabled vehicle starts, disconnect the ground connection negative jumper cable from its engine block.