There’s nothing more frustrating than getting in your car, turning the key, and hearing nothing but a click—or worse, complete silence. A dead battery can happen to anyone, but the good news is that with the right knowledge, you can get back on the road in minutes. In this guide from Doc Motor Works in Plainfield, IL, we break down the exact steps to jumpstart a car, what tools you’ll need, and how to do it safely and effectively.
What Causes a Dead Car Battery?
Before we cover how to jumpstart a car, it’s helpful to understand why car batteries die. Common reasons include:
- Leaving headlights or dome lights on overnight
- Corrosion or loose battery terminals
- Extremely cold weather
- An old or worn-out battery
- Electrical drain from a faulty component
If your car won’t start but lights work, or if you hear a clicking sound, it’s a strong sign that your battery doesn’t have enough charge to crank the engine.
What You Need to Jumpstart a Car
To jumpstart a car with another car, you’ll need:
- A working vehicle with a charged battery
- Jumper cables or a portable jump starter (also called a battery booster pack)
- Safety glasses and gloves (optional but recommended)
You can also jumpstart a car without another car using a portable jump starter, which is great for roadside emergencies or if no one is around to help.
Steps to Jumpstart a Dead Battery
Here’s the proper way to jumpstart a car using jumper cables:
1. Park the Working Car Close to the Dead One
Position both vehicles so the batteries are within reach, but make sure the cars don’t touch.
2. Turn Off Both Vehicles
Make sure both ignitions are off and parking brakes are engaged.
3. Connect the Jumper Cables in the Correct Order
- Red to Dead: Connect one red clamp to the positive (+) terminal of the dead battery.
- Red to Donor: Connect the other red clamp to the positive (+) terminal of the good battery.
- Black to Donor: Attach one black clamp to the negative (–) terminal of the good battery.
- Black to Ground: Attach the other black clamp to an unpainted metal surface (like a bolt) on the car with the dead battery—not the battery itself. This grounds the circuit and helps prevent sparks.
4. Start the Working Vehicle
Let it run for a minute or two.
5. Start the Dead Vehicle
Try to start the car with the dead battery. If it doesn’t work after a few tries, wait a bit longer or reposition the clamps.
6. Let It Run
Once the dead vehicle starts, let both cars run for 5–10 minutes. This allows the alternator to begin charging the battery after the jump.
7. Disconnect the Cables in Reverse Order
Carefully remove the clamps in the reverse sequence you connected them.
Important Safety Tips
Jumpstarting a car is simple, but it must be done safely:
- Never let the clamps touch each other during the process
- Wear safety gear and avoid leaning over the battery
- If you connect jumper cables wrong, you risk serious damage to your car’s electrical system
If you’re ever unsure, it’s best to call a professional.
Can You Jumpstart a Car in Cold Weather?
Yes, but cold weather drains battery power faster. Batteries lose capacity as temperatures drop, so if your car won’t start on a frigid morning, a jump may be necessary. Just expect it to take a little longer.
How Long Should You Drive After a Jump?
After successfully starting your car, drive for at least 15–30 minutes to give the alternator enough time to recharge the battery. If the car dies again shortly after, the battery may no longer hold a charge.
Need Help with a Dead Battery in Plainfield, IL?
If your car won’t start—or if you don’t feel confident performing a jumpstart—bring your vehicle to Doc Motor Works. We offer:
- Fast diagnostics for dead car batteries
- Battery replacements and charging system checks
- TPMS, alternator, and starter inspections
- Reliable auto repair in Plainfield, IL
Call us at (815) 577-3893 or stop by the shop for expert help.
Final Thoughts
Knowing how to jump a car is a valuable skill for any driver. Whether you’re using traditional jumper cables or a portable jump starter, following the right steps ensures you stay safe and get back on the road quickly.
At Doc Motor Works, we’re here to help Plainfield drivers with reliable repairs, honest service, and fast support when you need it most.