How to Connect a Car Battery Charger
Traditional settings for a charger include a power button, a plug for charging the system, positive and negative connectors and a voltage gauge. Some vehicles will start right away, once the charger is properly connected, while some may require up to 20 minutes of charging time. If you constantly have to jump-start your vehicle, take it in to a professional as soon as possible. This may signify an electrical problem or that you need to purchase a new battery.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Make sure the positive and negative cables are not touching. Both should be in their designated storage spots on the charging unit. Unplug the charger and take it to the car you want to jump-start.
-
2
Open the hood of your car. From the inside, remove your key to eliminate immediately using what little power the battery has to run the interior lights or the radio system. Make sure the doors are closed.
-
-
3
Set your charger up in a stable area where it will not fall over underneath the hood. Locate the positive (+) battery connection on the vehicle's battery. Open the charger clamp and close it around the connector knob.
-
4
Use your negative (-) connector to ground. Do not use the negative battery terminal. Use a piece of metal towards the front of the car or an exposed bolt. Squeeze the clamp to open it, and release it slowly on the grounded area for connection.
-
5
Turn the charger box on. Go inside the car and close the door. Start your vehicle. If it does not start, wait patiently for another five to 10 minutes before you try again.
-
6
Leave the car running once it starts. Turn the charger off and disconnect the connectors. Put them back in their storage spot.
-
7
Drive your vehicle for at least 30 minutes to recharge the battery.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Do not connect a charger with damaged wires. Also, if the battery is broken or corroded, do not attempt a jump-start. Purchase a new battery instead.
Car battery chargers differ by manufacturer. For this reason, you should fully read the owner's manual for the jumper box you are going to use.
References
- Photo Credit dead battery image by Katrina Miller from Fotolia.com
