If you’ve ever found yourself with a dead car battery, you know how frustrating it can be. Luckily, jumpstarting your car is a relatively easy process that can get you back on the road in no time. But once your car is running again, how long should you keep it running? In this article, we’ll answer that question and more.
Can you damage your car by running it for too long after jumpstarting?
The short answer is no, you shouldn’t damage your car by running it for too long after jumpstarting. However, it’s important to keep in mind that jumpstarting your car puts a lot of strain on your battery and your charging system. So while you can keep your car running for as long as you need to, it’s a good idea to get it checked out by a mechanic as soon as possible to make sure everything is in working order.
How long should you wait to start your car after a jumpstart?
After jumpstarting your car, you should wait at least 30 minutes before turning it off again. This will give your battery time to build up a charge so that it’s not completely drained the next time you start your car. If possible, it’s best to take your car for a short drive to help recharge the battery even faster.
How to properly jumpstart a car?
Jumpstarting a car is a fairly simple process, but it’s important to do it correctly to avoid damaging your car or injuring yourself. Here’s how to do it:
- Park the cars close together: Park the car with the good battery close to the car with the dead battery, but don’t let the cars touch.
- Turn off the ignition: Turn off the ignition on both cars and make sure all the lights and accessories are turned off.
- Connect the jumper cables: Connect the positive (+) jumper cable to the positive (+) terminal on the dead battery. Then connect the other end of the positive (+) cable to the positive (+) terminal on the good battery. Next, connect the negative (-) cable to the negative (-) terminal on the good battery. Finally, connect the other end of the negative (-) cable to an unpainted metal surface on the engine block or frame of the car with the dead battery.
- Start the engine: Start the engine on the car with the good battery and let it run for a few minutes.
- Start the dead car: Try to start the engine on the car with the dead battery. If it doesn’t start, wait a few more minutes and try again.
- Disconnect the jumper cables: Once the dead car is running, disconnect the jumper cables in the reverse order that you connected them.
How to prevent the need for a jumpstart in the future?
While jumpstarting your car is a quick fix for a dead battery, it’s always better to prevent the problem from happening in the first place. Here are a few tips to help you avoid needing a jumpstart in the future:
- Turn off all lights and accessories when you park: Leaving your lights, radio, or other accessories on when you park can drain your battery quickly.
- Drive your car regularly: If you don’t drive your car regularly, your battery can lose its charge over time. Try to take your car for a short drive at least once a week to keep the battery charged.
- Get your battery checked regularly: A mechanic can check your battery to make sure it’s in good condition and has enough charge to keep your car running smoothly.
Conclusion
Jumpstarting your car can be a lifesaver when you’re in a pinch, but it’s important to know how to do it safely and correctly. By following the tips in this article, you can keep your car running smoothly and avoid the need for a jumpstart in the future.
