MAZDA Service Tips: How to Jump-Start a Car

A little Mazda service knowledge goes a long way when your battery dies unexpectedly, especially knowing how to safely jump-start your car. At The Autobarn Mazda of Evanston, we want every driver to feel confident handling small roadside surprises like this one. Here is a simple step-by-step guide to get you back on the road safely.

How to Jump-Start Your MAZDA Vehicle

To begin, park the working vehicle close enough to the dead car for the cables to reach, without letting the two vehicles touch. Then, you’ll want to follow these steps:

1. Turn off both engines and open the hoods.
2. Attach one red clamp to the dead battery’s positive terminal and the other red clamp to the working battery’s positive terminal.
3. Attach one black clamp to the working battery’s negative terminal.
4. Attach the final black clamp to an unpainted metal surface under the hood of your dead vehicle, away from the battery itself.
5. Start the working vehicle, wait a few minutes, then try starting your car. Once it starts, remove the cables in reverse order.

A Few Safety Reminders

While you go through this procedure, always remember to keep cables away from moving parts like fans and belts, and never let the red and black clamps touch each other while connected. If you smell gas or notice a damaged or leaking battery, do not attempt to jump-start your vehicle and call for professional help instead. Wearing gloves and eye protection is also a smart precaution while working near the battery.

Schedule MAZDA Service in Evanston, IL

If your battery keeps dying or you are not comfortable jumping it yourself, our service team is just a call away. Regular battery testing during a routine Mazda service appointment can help you avoid this situation altogether. Schedule your appointment with The Autobarn Mazda of Evanston and stay running reliably all year long.