Knowing how to jump-start a car is an essential skill for any driver so read on for IT Garage Services guide on “How To Jump Start Your Car” and get the basics.
1. Position the 2 cars bonnet to bonnet
You’ll need to get the two cars close together to connect the batteries together by the jump leads. In most cars, the car’s battery should be under the bonnet in the engine bay, so move the still-functioning vehicle so the bonnets are facing each other. Then move all objects out of the way of both car’s batteries and remove any loose clothing or jewellery and check both batteries and jump leads are not damaged in any way.
2. Connect the red jump (positive) lead
Connect the red jump lead to the positive (+) terminal on each of the batteries. Be careful not to touch the end of the clip to any other part of the car and MAKE SURE you are connecting the RED LEAD to the POSITIVE terminal. The positive terminal will be clearly marked and usually has a red mark or cap to help identify it.

3. Connect the black jump (negative) lead
Now connect the black jump lead’s crocodile clip to the negative (-) terminal of both car’s batteries. You’ll see the negative terminal will normally be identified by a black cap or mark too.
4. Start the engine
Start Car 2’s (with the charged battery) engine. Wait about 5 minutes and then attempt to start Car 1 (dead battery car). When the car has started (you might need a couple of attempts), remove the leads in the reverse order of the above (black then red).
5. Run the car
Run the now newly started Car 1 for at least 15 minutes to let the battery recharge so you will be able to start it next time on its own.
Start a car with a dead battery without cables – How to do a bump start.
In an ideal world, you’ll be parked facing downhill. If not, you’re going to need a push.
- Gather some volunteers to help push your car.
- Push in the clutch (keep it down until step 5) and put the car into second gear.
- Turn on the ignition.
- Have your newfound pushing pals start start pushing your car, or let off the brakes if you’re conveniently parked on a hill.
- Once you’re moving at a decent walking pace, bring up the clutch quickly and the engine should start. Once the engine springs to life, push the clutch pedal again and let the engine idle.
- Let the car run for 15 minutes whilst the battery recharges.
The Best Mechanics Near Me
If your car is breaking down regularly or needs car servicing in Inverness, why not have your local Inverness garage look at the car?
Take your vehicle to the best garage services in Inverness – IT Garage Services! It’s your one-stop-shop for car repair in Inverness providing services like:
- Car servicing Inverness
- MOTs Inverness
- Brake tests and repair
- Fast fit services Inverness
- Diagnostics and car repair near me
You can find the best garage in Inverness – IT Garage Services at 35H Harbour Rd Inverness IV1 1UA
Contact us now to book an appointment or for any enquiries:
01463 229922
info@it-garage.beststaghen.com
Mon-Fri 8am- 6pm
