We’ve all been there: Returning to our car after a period of inactivity only to find that nothing happens when you turn the key.
A flat battery might be one of the simplest problems to fix, but that doesn’t mean it’s any less of a pain. However, thankfully with the right equipment and knowledge you can be on your way again in no time at all.
Here’s our step-by-step guide to getting back on the road without having to call the breakdown recovery services.
1. Jump to it
If you’re sensible you’ll have stored a set of jump leads the back of your car for these occasions. However, if you haven’t, often other motorists will have some. If you’re in a car park ask around – especially airport car parks, where this happens a lot. You’ll find most car park security teams keep a set handy.
2. Find a working car
This is where you’ll need some assistance. If you’ve borrowed the jump leads from another motorist you can use their car. Or if you’ve called for someone to bring you some, use theirs. Preferably it will have a similar size engine to your broken down car, but don’t worry too much as this isn’t essential.
3. Safety first
Before getting started, ensure the flat battery isn’t damaged or leaking. If it is, abandon any attempts at restarting it and call in the professionals. Remove any metal jewellery or watches you may have on too, just in case.
4. Get ready
Park both cars in a safe place, put them in neutral, and make sure they’re close enough to each other to attach the jump leads easily. Open the bonnets and make sure they’re secure and not likely to fall down on top of you. If one is an automatic, put it in park. Ensure both ignitions are switched off and the handbrakes are on.
5. Lead by example
Attach one of the red clips (or red leads) to the positive terminal of the working battery – you’ll know which it is as it will have a + or ‘POS’ on it. Attach the other end of the lead to the other positive terminal.
6. Negativity time
Attach the black leads or black clip to the negative terminal on the working battery – this will be the one with a minus sign or ‘NEG’ next to it. Attach the other end to a metal (earthing) point like a bolt, away from the flat battery. Check your car’s handbook to see if it has a negative jump-starting pole. You can always use the metal strut that holds the bonnet open.
7. Power up
Wait a moment or two to let the voltage neutralise, check that the cables are free from any moving parts in the engine bays, then start the working car and let it run for a few minutes.
8. Starters orders
Try and start the dead car – checking it is in park or neutral first – and hopefully it will fire into life. If it doesn’t, check the cables are properly connected and run the working car for around five minutes. If it doesn’t start after that, you’ll need to call the recovery services.
9. Sweet success
If you do manage to start the car – don’t turn it off! Carefully remove the leads in the reverse order to which you attached them. That means black off first, followed by red. Take the car for at least a 15-minute drive to recharge your battery. It may need longer. If you suffer the same problem again, then it’s time for a new battery.