12 Steps for Safe, Effective Jump-Starting
Jump-starting seems straightforward, but there are risks if you don’t follow the correct procedure. Sparks, incorrect connections, or failing to understand the root cause of the flat battery can damage both the vehicle and the jump starter itself. Here’s a simple step-by-step process to keep yourself and your equipment safe.
1. Safety first
Always wear eye protection and remove rings or jewellery. Any metal object can short out across the terminals and cause serious burns.
2. Check why the battery is flat
Before connecting, ask: is there a drain on the battery (lights left on, parasitic loads, or short trips)? If the battery is simply low, it might recover once charged. If it’s failed, even a jump-start won’t help.
3. Confirm your jump starter is rated correctly
Most vehicle batteries are 12V, but check that the unit is suitable before use.
4. Prepare the vehicle
Ignition off, transmission in Park (or Neutral for manual), and handbrake on.
5. Identify the clamps
Positive (Red +) and Negative (Black –). Double-check the markings.
6. Ensure the jump starter is OFF
If your unit has a switch, confirm it’s in the OFF position.
7. Connect the Positive clamp
Attach the Red (+) clamp to the battery positive post.
8. Connect the Negative clamp
Attach the Black (–) clamp to a clean chassis or engine ground, not directly to the battery negative.
9. Switch the unit ON
If equipped with an ON/OFF switch, only turn it on after the clamps are connected.
10. Attempt to start the engine
If it doesn’t crank within a few seconds, stop and reassess. Don’t keep trying repeatedly.
11. Remove the Negative clamp
Once the engine is running, disconnect the Negative (–) clamp from the chassis ground.
12. Remove the Positive clamp
Finally, disconnect the Positive (+) clamp from the battery.
Tip: A jump-start only gets the engine running. The battery should be tested and recharged properly afterwards. A weak or sulphated battery will often appear to “recover” temporarily, only to fail again soon after.