How to Restart an Old Car
Replacing a dead battery can be expensive and it is worth trying any possible avenue for restoring power to your battery to allow you to restart your car. Older cars which are also manual transmissions can be jump-started by allowing the car to start rolling down a hill, or by having a friend push the car while you are in it to work the pedals. Once your car is in gear, it can charge the battery as you drive.
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Instructions
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1
Insert the car's key into the ignition and turn it to the "On" position. Turn off all accessories in the car, as you want to be putting as little strain on the battery at start-up as possible.
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2
Press down on the clutch and put the car into first gear. Your car can also be started in second gear but this will require a longer push, and as such is not recommended unless you have a great deal of space to get the car started.
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3
Release the parking brake to enable the car to move. If you are parked on a downhill, this will suffice to start the car moving and you can progress to Step 5.
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4
Instruct your assistant (or assistants) to begin pushing the car. With the brake let out and the key turned to "On," you should be able to get the car rolling with the application of force on the back of the car.
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5
Release the clutch quickly as you begin to pick up speed. If you are traveling fast enough, and your battery is still salvageable, releasing the clutch should jump-start the engine and allow you to drive the car.
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6
Repeat the process if your car does not start up immediately. If push-starting still fails after multiple attempts, you will need to try electrical jumping or purchase a new battery.
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