How to Jump Start a Car

April 2nd, 2018 by

A car mechanic uses battery jumper cables to charge a dead battery.

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It’s an unfortunate situation, but it happens to almost everyone: you’re stranded with a car that won’t turn on because the battery is dead. Use this guide to figure out how to jump start your car. This will require:

  • Jumper cables
  • Another vehicle
  • Patience
  • A little know-how

Figure out how to jump start your car battery, and count on the team at Valley Honda for a range of automotive tricks and tips.

Beautiful blond girl calling cellphone near her broken car

A Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to get your car running and back on the road:

  1. First, make sure the problem is with your car battery. If you turn the key and the engine fails to turn over at all, chances are the issue is a dead battery.
  2. Track down a second vehicle or a portable generator. If you have a portable generator with jumper cables, then you’re all set. If not, you’ll need to find a working vehicle and take out a set of jumper cables.
  3. Put the two cars nose to nose, then make sure both vehicles are in park. This positioning allows the jumper cables to reach both batteries. If that’s not possible, having them side-by-side should be fine as well.
  4. Attach the red clip to your vehicle’s positive terminal. The positive terminal is larger and likely has “POS” or “+” on it.
  5. Attach the red clip to other vehicle’s positive terminal.
  6. Attach the black clip to other vehicle’s negative terminal.
  7. Attach the black clip to an unpainted metal surface on your car that isn’t located near the battery.
  8. Turn on the working vehicle and wait a few minutes.
  9. Turn on your vehicle, and try again in a few minutes if it doesn’t work right away.

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Avoid a Dead Car Battery

You can help diminish the chances of getting a dead battery by bringing your vehicle in for service and having it replaced in a timely manner. Valley Honda has car batteries on hand, all backed by the Honda battery warranty, and we provide quick, high-quality auto service. In addition, we’re happy to help with basic car care and maintenance advice. Curious about other components of your vehicle? Find out when to replace your water pump and more today with our team!

Current Service Specials at Valley Honda

Battery Check-Up

Free with Coupon Present

• Test Battery with ED18 Battery Tester
• Clean any Acid Corrosion from Battery terminals
• Apply Battery Corrosion Prevention Spray on Terminals

Valid only at Valley Honda. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Honda vehicles only. Prices may be higher on some models. Coupon must be present at time of write up.

Tire Rebates

Click Here for Savings up to $110*

We have a variety of Tire Rebates that “rotate” on a regular basis. Check out these money saving offers!
*depending on manufacture rebates available

Wiper Special

Time to Change Your Wipers!

15% off any pair of Wiper Blades & Inserts/Free Installation

Valid only at Valley Honda. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Honda vehicles only. Prices may be higher on some models. Coupon must be present at time of write up.
Expires: 07/31/2026

All Wheel Alignment

$164.95

Includes:
• Inspect/Adjust caster, camber & toe-in as applicable
• Inspect suspension, steering linkage & steering rack preload
• Inspect wheels and tires for irregular wear
• Adjust tire rods as necessary to center steering wheel
• Road Test

Valid only at Valley Honda. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Honda vehicles only. Prices may be higher on some models. Coupon must be present at time of write up.

Retail Price: $164.95
Expires: 07/31/2026

Timing Belt and Water Pump Replacement Special

$150.00 OFF

Don’t Wait! A broken timing belt can damage your engine. Refer to your owner’s manual for recommended replacement.
• Replace timing belt, drive belts and water pump, flush coolant
• Inspect camshaft and crankshaft seals
• 1 day complimentary Loaner vehicle provided

Valid only at Valley Honda. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Honda vehicles only. Coupon must be present at time of write up. Tensioner additional if needed. Complimentary Loaner is subject to availability. Driver must meet all Loaner vehicle eligibility requirements.
Expires: 07/31/2026

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