The last thing you want to experience after leaving for work in the morning is an unresponsive car battery. That sinking feeling when you turn the key and hear nothing but silence. Just because your battery isn't working doesn't mean you have to call a tow truck or a car battery service right away - jump starting could be an option. But with any mechanical procedure, it's essential to understand the risks before proceeding. 

In this blog post, we will explore what is involved in jump starting a dead car battery and discuss if it is indeed safe or risky.

The procedure

Jump starting a dead battery is relatively straightforward. But first, you will need another car with a working battery, jumper cables, safety glasses, and gloves. Once you have those items, here are the basic steps:

1. Connect one end of the red cable to the positive (+) terminal on the dead battery 

2. Connect the other end of the red cable to the positive post on the working vehicle's battery 

3. Connect one end of the black cable to the negative (-) terminal on the working vehicle's battery 

4. Connect the other end of the black cable to the metal surface/unpainted part of the engine or frame away from both batteries 

5. Start up the working vehicle and let it run for at least 30 seconds 

6. Try to start the dead vehicle 

7. If it starts, let both cars run for at least 10 minutes before disconnecting the cables 

Is it Risky? 

Jump starting a car with a dead battery is a viable way to get your car going without needing assistance or investing in a new battery. It is relatively easy to do as long as you have the correct equipment and another vehicle with a working battery. 

One of the main advantages of jump starting a dead car battery is that it saves time. Instead of waiting for help to arrive or taking time out of your day to replace the battery, you can quickly revive your car's power and be on your way. It also saves money because you don't have to pay for tow services or new batteries. 

However, jump starting can come with some risks if it is not done correctly. If the cables are connected incorrectly, there is potential for an electrical short circuit and even an explosion from combustible gasses emitted from the battery. It is important to ensure all connections are secure before attempting to start the car, and it is best practice to wear safety glasses and gloves. Additionally, if you attempt jump starting too many times or if your engine has sustained any major damage before trying to jump start, this can cause further damage due to insufficient power being supplied by the working vehicle's battery. 

In conclusion, although jump starting a dead battery has drawbacks, such as potential danger from improper connections and possible further damage due to repeated attempts or existing engine damage, it remains an effective solution for reviving dead car batteries that can save you time and money in comparison with other options like tow services or buying new batteries.

About zDegree

At zDegree, we understand how inconvenient it is when your car battery dies, and you need to take time out of your day to replace it. That's why we offer our mobile battery replacement service. With this service, you don't have to worry about jump starting a dead battery, waiting for a tow truck, or installing a new one. Instead, all you have to do is call us, and we will come to you. Our mobile technicians will bring the appropriate tools and parts needed to diagnose the issue quickly, replace the battery if necessary, and get you back on the road quickly and safely.