Big risks to jump-starting modern cars
Jump-starting your vehicle seems like a simple enough procedure, and you may have hands-on experience, but this old-school “quick fix” for a flat battery can actually cause serious damage to modern cars says Battery Centre.
Its spokesman says a small mistake can damage the computerised system and have dangerous consequences.
Everything from traction control and reverse sensing to airbags and Bluetooth connectivity add to the complexity of your car’s computerised electronic system.
For this reason, vehicle manufacturers often require you to follow very specific procedures when jump-starting your car.
In fact, some manufacturers don’t allow jump-starts at all and you risk voiding your warranty if you do so.
Jump-starting should be a last resort and not a go-to solution: If you notice a sluggish or failed start, your battery may need to be replaced.
A failed start can also be caused by the alternator, a malfunctioning starter or poor connection.
If you have no other choice and must jump-start your car, there are few things to consider first. While you may have a set of jumper cables, you may not be aware of the exact procedure, and chances are you don’t have the appropriate gloves, protective clothing and eyewear in case of an explosion.
Before hooking up the cables, consult your vehicle manual and consider the following from Battery Centre:
● The two cars should never touch as this can create a shock that can damage electronics;
● The live car should be switched off, including all electronics, before connecting the cables to avoid an energy drain;
● The voltage of the batteries need to match to avoid sending a current that can burn out the electrical system;
● The key should be removed from the ignition before connecting the cables;
● Rubbing the jumper cables together can result in high voltage that can damage the electrical system;
● Battery terminals should be free of corrosion;
● Cables must be connected in a specific order and disconnected in reverse order to avoid shorting the electrical system;
● Always connect the positive leads of both batteries first, followed by the negative leads to prevent power surges or spikes;
● The last cable connection you make will likely produce a spark which needs to be kept away from the battery;
● The last connection should ideally be attached to an unpainted metal surface in the engine compartment instead of the battery terminal to ensure a good ground.