Note: If your Cadillac has a "valet mode" or anti-theft system that requires a special key or code to start, please consult your owner's manual for the correct procedure to jump-start the vehicle.
1. Open the Hood:
- Open the hood of your Cadillac to access the battery.
- Refer to your owner's manual for the location of the battery if you're not familiar with your vehicle.
2. Identify Positive and Negative Terminals:
- Locate the battery in the engine compartment and identify the positive (+) and negative (-) terminals.
- Positive terminals are usually marked with a "+" symbol or red color, while negative terminals are marked with a "-" symbol or black color.
3. Attach the Jumper Cables:
- Connect one end of the red (positive) jumper cable to the positive terminal on the dead Cadillac battery.
- Attach the other end of the red cable to the positive terminal of the working battery in the jump-start vehicle.
- Connect one end of the black (negative) jumper cable to the negative terminal of the working battery.
- The other end of the black cable is connected to an unpainted metal surface such as the engine block of your Cadillac.
- Make sure this connection is secure to avoid any sparking.
4. Start the Jump-Start Vehicle:
- Start the working vehicle and let it run for a few minutes to allow its battery to recharge.
5. Start the Cadillac:
- Try to start the Cadillac.
- If it doesn't start immediately, give the working vehicle a few more minutes to charge the Cadillac's battery.
6. Run Both Vehicles:
- Once the Cadillac successfully starts, keep it running along with the jump-start vehicle for a couple of minutes.
- This helps to ensure that the Cadillac's battery receives sufficient charge to sustain power.
7. Remove Jumper Cables:
- Turn off both vehicles and take off the jumper cables in the reverse order you connected them.
- Start your Cadillac by turning the key or pressing the ignition button.
- If it starts and stays running, you can safely drive it to your destination.
Remember to drive directly to a mechanic or auto shop to have your battery checked and replaced if necessary. It is also a good idea to have your charging system inspected to make sure there are no underlying problems causing your battery to drain or fail prematurely.
