Jump-starting a car is a common roadside emergency, and knowing how to do it can save you time and money. While traditionally done with jumper cables, a growing misconception is that you can jump-start a car using only a cigarette lighter. This is not possible. A cigarette lighter runs off the car's accessory power, which is turned off when the engine isn't running. Therefore, it lacks the necessary amperage to jump-start a dead battery.
This article focuses on the correct and safe methods to jump-start your car using jumper cables. We'll debunk the myth of using a cigarette lighter and provide clear, step-by-step instructions.
Understanding Car Batteries and Jump Starting
Before we dive into the process, let's quickly understand the basics. Your car's battery provides the power needed to start the engine. When the battery is dead, it can't deliver enough power to crank the engine. Jump-starting involves using a working battery from another vehicle to provide that power.
Why You Can't Jump Start With a Cigarette Lighter
The cigarette lighter operates on a much lower amperage than required to jump-start a car. It's designed for low-power accessories, not for the high current draw needed to crank an engine. Attempting to use it will likely result in nothing happening, and might even damage your lighter socket.
The Correct Way to Jump Start Your Car
Essential Tools:
- Jumper Cables: Invest in a good quality set of jumper cables with heavy-gauge wires. Cheap cables can overheat and even cause a fire.
- Another Vehicle with a Working Battery: Ensure the "good" car has a similar or higher voltage battery (usually 12V).
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Safety First: Park both vehicles on a level surface, away from traffic. Engage the parking brakes on both cars. Turn off both engines.
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Connect the Jumper Cables: This is crucial. Remember the order:
- Positive (+) to Positive (+): Connect one red clamp to the positive (+) terminal of the dead battery.
- Positive (+) to Positive (+): Connect the other red clamp to the positive (+) terminal of the good battery.
- Negative (-) to Negative (-): Connect one black clamp to the negative (-) terminal of the good battery.
- Negative (-) to Ground: Connect the other black clamp to an unpainted metal surface on the engine block of the car with the dead battery (NOT the negative terminal directly).
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Start the Good Car: Let the engine run for a few minutes at a higher RPM.
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Attempt to Start the Dead Car: Try to start the car with the dead battery. If it doesn't start immediately, try again after letting the good car run for another minute.
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Disconnect the Jumper Cables: Disconnect the cables in the reverse order you connected them. First, remove the black clamp from the engine block, then the black clamp from the good battery, followed by the red clamps.
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Let Both Cars Run: Let both engines run for a few minutes to allow the dead battery to recharge slightly.
Troubleshooting and Safety Precautions
- If the car doesn't start: The battery may be severely damaged and require replacement. Check the battery's connections and have it tested professionally.
- Never let the jumper cables touch each other: This can cause sparks and potentially damage your vehicle's electrical systems.
- Always wear safety glasses: Protecting your eyes from potential sparks or battery acid is important.
- Be cautious around the battery terminals: Battery acid is corrosive.
Following these instructions will help you safely jump-start your car and avoid common mistakes. Remember, using a cigarette lighter is not a viable option. Always use jumper cables for a safe and effective jump start.
