1. Safety First!
* Turn off all accessories: Make sure both cars have their headlights, radios, AC, etc., turned OFF. This prevents overloading the system.
* Park on a level surface: This ensures good contact between the batteries.
* Engage parking brakes: Both cars need to be securely parked.
* Wear safety glasses: Battery acid is corrosive.
* Gloves are recommended: To protect your hands from acid and potential grime.
2. Gather Your Supplies:
* Jumper cables: Make sure they are heavy-duty and in good condition. Frayed or damaged cables are a fire hazard.
* A working car: With a fully charged battery.
3. Connecting the Jumper Cables:
The order matters! Remember POSITIVE to POSITIVE, NEGATIVE to NEGATIVE.
* POSITIVE (+) to POSITIVE (+): Connect one red clamp to the POSITIVE (+) terminal of the dead battery (usually marked with a "+" symbol). Then connect the other red clamp to the POSITIVE (+) terminal of the good battery.
* NEGATIVE (-) to NEGATIVE (-): Connect one black clamp to the NEGATIVE (-) terminal of the *good* battery. Crucially, connect the other black clamp to an UNPAINTED METAL SURFACE on the engine block or chassis of the dead car, *away* from the battery. Connecting the negative to the dead battery's negative terminal can cause a spark near the battery, potentially igniting explosive gases.
4. Starting the Car:
* Start the working car: Let it run for a few minutes to charge the dead battery.
* Try starting the Buick Riviera: Attempt to start the Buick. If it doesn't start immediately, let the working car run for a few more minutes before trying again.
5. Disconnecting the Jumper Cables:
* Turn off the working car.
* Disconnect the cables in the reverse order you connected them:
* Remove the black clamp from the Buick's chassis/engine block.
* Remove the black clamp from the good battery's negative terminal.
* Remove the red clamp from the good battery's positive terminal.
* Remove the red clamp from the Buick's positive terminal.
6. Let the Buick Run:
Let the Buick Riviera run for at least 20-30 minutes to allow the alternator to recharge the battery. Driving it for a while is even better.
Important Considerations:
* If the car still doesn't start after jumping: The problem might be more than just a dead battery. You might need a new battery, a new alternator, or another component repair.
* Battery type: Most modern cars use maintenance-free batteries. However, if your Buick has an older style battery that requires water topping, check the fluid levels after the jump.
If you're uncomfortable performing this procedure yourself, it's always best to call a roadside assistance service or a qualified mechanic. Improperly jumping a car can damage the electrical system or even cause a fire.
