HERE’S WHAT TO DO AND A STEP-BY-STEP FOR JUMP-STARTING YOUR CAR.

Welcome to Foothill Auto Service, Lake Forest, California's beacon of automotive expertise. Our dedication to preserving your car's vitality is unwavering, and we pride ourselves on being the guardians of your road journeys. Today, we shift gears (pun intended!) to explore a common challenge for many drivers: the dreaded dead battery and the art of jumpstarting. In our guide "Jumpstarting 101," we'll break down the steps, precautions, and vital tips every driver should know. So, buckle up and get ready for a jolt of knowledge!

To get started, you'll need the following tools:

• Jumper cables – A pair of jumper cables with thick insulation and clamps. You can easily find these at any auto parts store.
• Protective gear – Make sure you're wearing safety goggles and gloves before connecting the cables.
• Power source: Preferably another vehicle or a portable power source.
  

STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE TO JUMPSTARTING

Now that you have a good understanding of the basics and the necessary safety measures, here's a straightforward guide to jumpstarting your car:

• Position the Cars: 
• If you're using another car to jump-start, place both cars in a way that their batteries are as close to each other as possible. However, make sure they don't touch.
• Prepare the Batteries: 

Start by opening the hoods of both vehicles to access the car batteries. Identify the batteries, typically square or rectangular boxes with two metal terminals marked as positive (+) and negative (-). Inspect the batteries for any visible damage, like cracks or bulges on the casing. It's crucial not to jumpstart a vehicle with a damaged battery, as it can be unsafe. Additionally, check the battery terminals for corrosion, a white or bluish-greenish substance. Corrosion can hinder the electrical connection, so gently clean it using a wire brush or a battery terminal cleaner if needed. Finally, ensure both vehicles are parked safely with the engines off before proceeding with jumpstarting.

Connect the Cables:

1. Attach one end of the red (positive) clamp to the dead battery's positive terminal.
2. Attach the other end to the positive terminal of the good battery.
3. Connect one end of the black (negative) clamp to the good battery's negative terminal.
4. Attach the other end of the black clamp to an unpainted metal surface on the dead car – this acts as an earthing ground.
   

Turn on the Working Vehicle: 

After securely connecting the jumper cables, it's time to activate the working vehicle. Insert the key into the ignition of the working car and turn it to start the engine. Allow the engine to run for a few minutes, typically around five minutes, while the two vehicles remain connected. This step is crucial as it allows the electrical system of the working car to transfer some of its electrical charge to the dead battery, effectively giving it a boost. The process is akin to sharing some "life" from the working vehicle to the one with the dead battery. During this time, you may notice the vehicle's headlights with the dead battery brightening up, indicating the battery is gradually recharging. This step is essential for a successful jumpstart, as it ensures sufficient power to start the vehicle with the dead battery.

Try Starting the Dead Vehicle: 

Turn on the ignition. If it starts, let it idle for a few minutes to help recharge the battery.

Disconnect the Cables: 

To safely finish the jumpstarting process, begin by removing the black (negative) clamps first. Detach the black clamp from the previously dead vehicle's chassis or another unpainted metal surface away from the battery. Then, remove the black clamp from the working vehicle's battery, ensuring it doesn't touch any metal surfaces.

Next, remove the red (positive) clamps. Start by detaching the red clamp from the working vehicle's battery's positive terminal, being cautious not to touch metal surfaces. Finally, go to the previously dead car and remove the red clamp from its battery's positive terminal. This order minimizes the risk of sparks or short circuits. Once all clamps are removed, close the hoods of both vehicles, completing the jumpstart.

Drive the Jumpstarted Car: 

After successfully jumpstarting your vehicle, let it idle briefly to allow the alternator to start recharging the battery. Then, take a 20-minute drive. This helps the alternator charge the battery faster and ensures the battery receives a substantial charge, enhancing its overall health and capacity. Drive generally during this time. This step is essential, especially if you often take short trips or have experienced battery issues, as it prevents rapid battery depletion after jumpstarting and maintains your car's reliability.

TIPS FOR MAINTAINING YOUR CAR BATTERY

• Regular Inspections: Check your battery terminals for corrosion regularly. Clean them using a brush and a mixture of baking soda and water.
• Limit Short Rides: Short rides can prevent the battery from fully charging. Consider longer drives or invest in a car battery charger.
• Turn Off All the Lights: Always ensure all the lights are off when exiting your car. Leaving lights on is a common cause of battery drain.
• Test Your Battery: Get a to gauge your battery's health. This can help you know when it's time for a replacement.
• Keep Your Battery Tightly Fastened: A not securely fastened battery can vibrate, leading to internal damage and short circuits.

At Foothill Auto Service, we understand the ins and outs of jumpstarting your vehicle, whether you're dealing with a dead battery or other electrical issues. Our team of ASE-certified technicians possesses the expertise and tools to assist you in safely jumpstarting your car getting you back on the road with confidence. It's worth noting that regular vehicle maintenance can help prevent these situations. Whether you need routine service or need a jumpstart, Foothill Auto Service is your trusted partner in ensuring your car runs smoothly. Don't let a dead battery stall your plans – schedule an appointment with Foothill Auto Service today. Drive with the assurance that you have a reliable ally in keeping your vehicle in top shape. Visit us today at 26911 Vista Terrace; Lake Forest, CA 92630, or give us a call at (949) 770-5956.