Which Jumper Cable Goes On First

Which Jumper Cable Goes On First? A Step-by-Step Guide to Jump Starting Your Car

Getting a dead battery is frustrating, but knowing how to jump-start your car can save you a lot of trouble. One common question that arises is: which jumper cable goes on first? This seemingly simple question can be the difference between a successful jump start and a potential electrical mishap. This guide will provide a clear, step-by-step process, ensuring you jump-start your car safely and efficiently. Understanding the correct order prevents damage to your vehicle's electrical system.

Understanding the Process: Positive to Positive, Negative to Negative

The core principle of jump-starting a car is to transfer power from a working battery to a dead one. This is done using jumper cables, which connect the positive (+) and negative (-) terminals of both batteries. The crucial point is the order: always connect the positive cables first, then the negative cables. Similarly, when disconnecting, remove the negative cables first, then the positive cables.

Step-by-Step Guide to Jump Starting Your Car

Here's a detailed breakdown of the jump-starting process, emphasizing the correct order of cable connection:

1. Safety First! Ensure both vehicles are turned off. Engage the parking brakes on both cars. Open the hoods of both vehicles and locate the batteries. Wear safety glasses or goggles to protect your eyes from potential sparks.

2. Identify Terminals: Locate the positive (+) and negative (-) terminals on both batteries. The positive terminal is usually marked with a "+" sign and is often larger. The negative terminal is marked with a "-" sign.

3. Connect the Positive Cables: Take the red jumper cable (this is usually the positive cable), and connect one end securely to the positive terminal of the dead battery. Then, connect the other end of the red cable to the positive terminal of the working battery.

4. Connect the Negative Cables: Now, take the black jumper cable (this is usually the negative cable), and connect one end to the negative terminal of the working battery. Crucially, connect the other end of the black cable to an unpainted metal surface on the engine block of the dead car. Do not connect it directly to the negative terminal of the dead battery. This step minimizes the risk of sparks near the battery, which can cause explosions in the presence of flammable gases.

5. Start the Working Car: Let the working car run for a few minutes to allow sufficient charge to transfer.

6. Start the Dead Car: Attempt to start the car with the dead battery. If it doesn't start immediately, let the working car run for a few more minutes before trying again.

7. Disconnect the Cables (in Reverse Order): Once the dead car starts, remove the cables in the reverse order of connection: First, remove the black cable from the engine block of the dead car, then from the negative terminal of the good battery. After that, remove the red cable from the positive terminal of the good battery, and finally from the positive terminal of the dead battery.

8. Let the Car Run: Allow the dead car to run for at least 30 minutes to ensure the battery is sufficiently charged.

Troubleshooting and Precautions

• If the car still doesn't start: There could be a more serious problem with your battery, starter, or alternator. Seek professional help.
• Never smoke or have any open flames near the battery during the jump-starting process.
• If you are unsure about any part of the process, it is best to seek assistance from a qualified mechanic.

By following these steps and remembering the crucial order – positive first, negative last, and vice versa when disconnecting – you'll confidently jump-start your car and get back on the road safely. Remember, safety and the correct procedure are paramount.