1. Safety First:
* Turn off all accessories: In both cars, make sure the headlights, radio, and other accessories are turned off.
* Gather your materials: You'll need jumper cables with insulated clamps. Check the cables for any damage before use.
* Park on a level surface: This ensures a good connection and prevents rolling.
* Engage parking brakes: In both cars.
* Wear safety glasses: Battery acid is corrosive.
* Ensure good ventilation: Carbon monoxide is a byproduct of a running engine.
2. Connecting the Jumper Cables:
This is crucial to avoid sparks and damage. Remember positive (+) to positive (+), negative (-) to negative (-). However, many people prefer connecting the negative (-) cable to an unpainted metal surface on the dead car's engine block as a safety precaution. The order below reflects this safer method:
* Positive (+) to Positive (+): Connect one red clamp to the positive (+) terminal of the dead Cobalt's battery.
* Positive (+) to Positive (+): Connect the other red clamp to the positive (+) terminal of the good car's battery.
* Negative (-) to Negative (-): Connect one black clamp to the negative (-) terminal of the *good* car's battery.
* Negative (-) to Unpainted Metal: Connect the other black clamp to a sturdy, unpainted metal surface on the engine block (or other suitable grounding point) of the dead Cobalt, away from the battery. Avoid connecting to moving parts.
3. Starting the Cars:
* Start the good car: Let it run for a few minutes to charge the dead battery.
* Start the Cobalt: Try to start the Cobalt. If it doesn't start immediately, let the good car run for a few more minutes before trying again.
4. Disconnecting the Jumper Cables:
* Negative (-) from Unpainted Metal: Disconnect the black clamp from the Cobalt's engine block first.
* Negative (-) from Negative (-): Disconnect the black clamp from the good car's negative (-) terminal.
* Positive (+) from Positive (+): Disconnect the red clamp from the good car's positive (+) terminal.
* Positive (+) from Positive (+): Disconnect the red clamp from the Cobalt's positive (+) terminal.
5. After Starting:
* Let the Cobalt run for at least 30 minutes: This allows the alternator to recharge the battery.
* Check the Cobalt's battery: If the problem persists (the car dies again quickly), you may need a new battery or have another electrical problem.
Important Considerations for a 2007 Cobalt:
* Battery Location: The battery is typically located in the engine compartment, but double-check your owner's manual to be certain.
* Corrosion: Check the battery terminals for corrosion. Clean them with a wire brush or battery terminal cleaner if necessary.
If you're uncomfortable performing this procedure yourself, it's always best to call a roadside assistance service or have a qualified mechanic assist you. Improperly jumping a car can damage the electrical system.
