Jump starting a car with an automatic transmission is a bit more delicate than a manual transmission car. Heres a step-by-step guide on how to safely jump start an automatic transmission car⁚
Safety First
- Park on a level surface⁚ This ensures the car doesnt roll while youre working.
- Engage the parking brake⁚ This is crucial for preventing the car from rolling.
- Turn off all accessories⁚ Lights‚ radio‚ AC‚ etc. should be turned off in both cars.
- Use proper jumper cables⁚ Make sure the cables are in good condition and have the right gauge for your cars battery.
- Wear safety glasses⁚ Protect your eyes from any potential sparks.
Jump Starting Procedure
- Connect the positive (+) cables first⁚
- Connect one end of the positive cable to the positive (+) terminal of the dead battery.
- Connect the other end of the positive cable to the positive (+) terminal of the good battery.
- Connect the negative (-) cables⁚
- Connect one end of the negative cable to the negative (-) terminal of the good battery.
- Connect the other end of the negative cable to a metal grounding point on the dead cars frame‚ away from the battery. Avoid connecting it directly to the negative (-) terminal of the dead battery.
- Start the good car⁚ Let the good car run for a few minutes to charge the dead battery.
- Try starting the dead car⁚ Once the dead cars battery has had some charge‚ try to start it. It may take a few attempts.
- Disconnect the cables in reverse order⁚ Once the dead car starts‚ disconnect the negative (-) cables first‚ followed by the positive (+) cables.
Additional Tips
- Dont rev the good car engine⁚ Excessive revving can damage the alternator.
- If the car doesnt start⁚ The battery may be too dead‚ or there could be another issue. Its best to have the car checked by a mechanic.
- Dont touch the cables while they are connected⁚ You could get a nasty shock.
- If youre unsure‚ dont try it⁚ If youre not comfortable with jump starting a car‚ its best to call a tow truck or a mechanic.
Remember‚ jump starting a car with an automatic transmission is a delicate process. Always prioritize safety and take your time. If youre unsure about any step‚ its best to seek professional help.
Why is Jump Starting an Automatic Transmission Car Different?
The difference lies in the transmission itself. Automatic transmissions rely on hydraulic pressure to shift gears‚ and this pressure is generated by a pump powered by the engine. When the battery is dead‚ the hydraulic pressure is lost‚ and the transmission wont engage properly. Heres why this is a concern⁚
- Damage to the Transmission⁚ Attempting to start the car without sufficient hydraulic pressure could put excessive strain on the transmission‚ potentially damaging it.
- Difficulty Shifting⁚ Even if the car starts‚ the transmission might struggle to shift gears smoothly‚ causing jerking or slipping.
How to Jump Start an Automatic Transmission Car Safely
To minimize the risk of transmission damage‚ follow these additional precautions⁚
- Shift to “Neutral”⁚ Before connecting the jumper cables‚ make sure the automatic transmission is in the “Neutral” (N) position. This disconnects the transmission from the engine‚ reducing the chance of damage.
- Avoid Starting Immediately⁚ After connecting the cables‚ let the dead battery charge for a few minutes before trying to start the car. This helps build up hydraulic pressure in the transmission.
- Start Slowly⁚ When you attempt to start the car‚ do it gently without revving the engine. This allows the transmission to engage gradually.
- Drive Carefully⁚ Once the car starts‚ drive slowly and carefully‚ avoiding sudden acceleration or braking. This gives the transmission time to adjust to the restored hydraulic pressure.
Alternatives to Jump Starting
If youre uncomfortable jump starting your car or if the battery is completely dead‚ consider these alternatives⁚
- Call a Tow Truck⁚ A tow truck can safely transport your car to a mechanic for battery replacement or diagnostics.
- Use a Battery Booster⁚ A portable battery booster provides a quick and safe way to jump start a car without the need for another vehicle.
By following these tips‚ you can safely jump start an automatic transmission car and get back on the road.