How to connect jumper cables?

When can the battery be discharged?

A discharged battery can throw even the most calm driver off balance. The battery loses its power mainly in a frosty winter season. The efficiency of the battery is reduced because low temperature slows down the flow of electric charges. The electrolyte, which is a mixture of sulfuric acid and water, may then freeze. The colder conditions are outside, the faster the battery can lose its efficiency. In addition, if the battery is less charged, the faster it can discharge. However, it should be remembered that the battery may discharge at any time of the year. The battery may also lose its power, e.g. during summer heat, when the outside temperature is above 25ºC. Very high temperatures significantly accelerate the battery discharge process. In summer like in winter, the discharge process is faster when the battery is less charged.

Marking of jumper cables

When the battery is discharged, the energy in it may only enable to open the central lock. However, if the battery is completely discharged, you will need to use the key. You can also jump start a car with the help of another vehicle having a working (live) battery. When you find such car you can begin the connection procedure of the jumper cables. It is very important to follow the instructions, as incorrect attachement of the jumper cables can lead to the explosion of the battery. First of all, turn off the engines in both cars, then apply the hand brakes and open the hoods. The cables are clearly marked. The red cable or the one with the red ends (clamps) is the positive cable. A black cable or with black clamps (terminals) is a negative cable.

How do I connect the jumper cables to the battery? 

At first you should attach the first red cable clamp to the positive terminal on the battery in the vehicle, which is to help a jump start the car with a dead battery. Then attach the first black cable clamp to the negative terminal on the working (live) battery in the same car. Next, attach the second red jumper cable clamp to the positive terminal on the dead battery. The second black jumper cable should be grounded in the car with a dead battery. It should be attached to an unpainted piece of stationary metal under the hood of the car. It is very important that it is not an insulated part, i.e. covered with rubber or other material. You should also remember to turn off all electrical devices in both cars - e.g. navigation, heating, audio, interior and exterior lighting. When the cables are properly connected, the engine in the car with a donor battery should be started. Then we should wait several seconds and start the engine in the vehicle with the dead battery. Once the engine in the car with a dead battery starts, we can remove the cables. At first you should disconnect the dead battery - remove the black cable and then the red one.

Damaged jumper cables are not recommended. We should also not use self-made cables. Also, do not charge a higher capacity battery with a lower capacity battery. It means that a car with a small engine should not be a "donor" of energy for a vehicle with a large engine. The battery must be clean and the terminals protected against corrosion to keep the battery in good condition for as long as possible.