Jump starting a car with an automatic transmission is a common task, but it requires extra caution to avoid damaging the transmission. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to jump start an automatic transmission car safely⁚
Safety Precautions
- Always wear safety glasses. Battery acid can splash and cause eye irritation.
- Never smoke near the battery. Battery fumes are flammable.
- Ensure the car is parked on a level surface. This prevents the car from rolling while you’re working on it.
- Disconnect the negative (-) cable from the battery first, and connect it last. This prevents sparks from igniting flammable fumes.
- If the car battery is frozen, do not attempt to jump start it. This can damage the battery and the car’s electrical system.
Jump Starting Procedure
- Gather your materials⁚ You’ll need jumper cables, a working car, and a pair of safety glasses.
- Park the working car close to the car with the dead battery. Make sure the vehicles are not touching.
- Turn off the ignition and all accessories in both cars.
- Locate the batteries in both cars. The positive (+) terminal is usually marked with a red cap or a plus sign. The negative (-) terminal is usually marked with a black cap or a minus sign.
- Connect the red (positive) cable to the positive (+) terminal of the dead battery.
- Connect the other end of the red cable to the positive (+) terminal of the working battery.
- Connect the black (negative) cable to the negative (-) terminal of the working battery.
- Connect the other end of the black cable to a metal grounding point on the dead car’s frame, away from the battery. Avoid connecting it to the battery directly.
- Start the working car and let it run for a few minutes. This allows the battery to charge.
- Attempt to start the dead car. If it starts, let it run for 15-20 minutes to allow the battery to charge.
- Disconnect the jumper cables in reverse order⁚ Remove the black cable from the grounding point, then from the working battery. Remove the red cable from the working battery, then from the dead battery.
Important Notes
- Do not rev the engine of the working car while jump starting. This can damage the alternator.
- If the car doesn’t start, check your connections and make sure all cables are securely attached.
- If the dead battery is very old or damaged, it may not be possible to jump start it. In this case, you’ll need to replace the battery.
- After jump starting, it’s a good idea to have your battery tested to determine if it needs to be replaced.
Remember, safety is paramount when working with car batteries. Follow these steps carefully and always prioritize your safety and the safety of those around you.