Essential MAZDA Tips: How to Jump a Car

Dealing with a dead car battery can be a major inconvenience. We understand the importance of getting you back on the road swiftly and safely, which is why we’re providing a complete guide on how to jump a car, ensuring you’re prepared for those unexpected moments. Sansone Mazda gives tips for drivers in Woodbridge, NJ.

Getting Ready to Jump-Start

Before jump-starting your Mazda vehicle, ensure a functional booster vehicle is ready. Position the two cars either nose-to-nose or side-by-side, depending on where the batteries are located, ensuring they do not touch. Both vehicles should be turned off, with parking brakes engaged.

Open the hoods and locate the batteries, typically found under the hood. Identify the positive (+) and negative (-) terminals; the positive is usually marked with red, and the negative is black.

Correctly Connecting the Jumper Cables

With both cars prepared, start by attaching the red, positive clamp to the dead battery's positive terminal; repeat this step with the booster vehicle’s positive terminal. Then, connect the black negative clamp to the booster vehicle’s negative terminal. Finally, attach the other end of the black clamp to an unpainted metal surface on your Mazda vehicle, away from the battery — this sequence minimizes the risk of sparks.

Jump-Starting Your MAZDA Vehicle

Once all connections are secure, start the engine of the booster vehicle, letting it idle for a few minutes to allow the battery to charge. Attempt to start your Mazda vehicle; if it doesn’t start immediately, wait several minutes and try again. Once your car starts, let it run for at least 15 to 20 minutes to help recharge the battery.

If the car doesn’t start after several attempts, it may indicate a deeper issue, suggesting it's time to schedule service at our Mazda service center.

Safely Disconnecting the Cables

After your Mazda vehicle starts, turn off both vehicles before disconnecting the jumper cables. Always remove the negative clamp first and then the positive clamp, following the reverse order of how you connected them. Ensure the cables or any metal surfaces do not touch each other as you disconnect them.

Get Your Questions Answered on How to Jump Start a Car at Sansone MAZDA

If you encounter any issues or prefer professional assistance, visit our Mazda dealership in Woodbridge, NJ. Our expert technicians are ready to help you when you need them and help you during these roadside emergencies. Please don't hesitate to reach out for immediate help or to schedule Mazda service at Sansone Mazda!