There’s nothing more frustrating than getting in your car, turning the key, and hearing nothing but a click—or worse, complete silence. A dead battery can happen to anyone, but the good news is that with the right knowledge, you can get back on the road in minutes. In this guide from Doc Motor Works in Plainfield, IL, we break down the exact steps to jumpstart a car, what tools you’ll need, and how to do it safely and effectively.
Before we cover how to jumpstart a car, it’s helpful to understand why car batteries die. Common reasons include:
If your car won’t start but lights work, or if you hear a clicking sound, it’s a strong sign that your battery doesn’t have enough charge to crank the engine.
To jumpstart a car with another car, you’ll need:
You can also jumpstart a car without another car using a portable jump starter, which is great for roadside emergencies or if no one is around to help.
Here’s the proper way to jumpstart a car using jumper cables:
1. Park the Working Car Close to the Dead One
Position both vehicles so the batteries are within reach, but make sure the cars don’t touch.
2. Turn Off Both Vehicles
Make sure both ignitions are off and parking brakes are engaged.
3. Connect the Jumper Cables in the Correct Order
4. Start the Working Vehicle
Let it run for a minute or two.
5. Start the Dead Vehicle
Try to start the car with the dead battery. If it doesn’t work after a few tries, wait a bit longer or reposition the clamps.
6. Let It Run
Once the dead vehicle starts, let both cars run for 5–10 minutes. This allows the alternator to begin charging the battery after the jump.
7. Disconnect the Cables in Reverse Order
Carefully remove the clamps in the reverse sequence you connected them.
Jumpstarting a car is simple, but it must be done safely:
If you’re ever unsure, it’s best to call a professional.
Yes, but cold weather drains battery power faster. Batteries lose capacity as temperatures drop, so if your car won’t start on a frigid morning, a jump may be necessary. Just expect it to take a little longer.
After successfully starting your car, drive for at least 15–30 minutes to give the alternator enough time to recharge the battery. If the car dies again shortly after, the battery may no longer hold a charge.
If your car won’t start—or if you don’t feel confident performing a jumpstart—bring your vehicle to Doc Motor Works. We offer:
Call us at (815) 577-3893 or stop by the shop for expert help.
Knowing how to jump a car is a valuable skill for any driver. Whether you’re using traditional jumper cables or a portable jump starter, following the right steps ensures you stay safe and get back on the road quickly.
At Doc Motor Works, we’re here to help Plainfield drivers with reliable repairs, honest service, and fast support when you need it most.
