Jump starting

Connect the cables in the numerical order shown in the following image (and disconnect them in the reverse order):

OMQ4A065002

Jump starting can be dangerous if done incorrectly. To avoid harm to yourself or damage to your vehicle or battery, follow the jump starting procedures in this section. If in doubt, have a competent technician or towing service jump start your vehicle.

NOTE

Use only a 12-volt jumper system. You can damage a 12-volt starting motor, ignition system, and other electrical parts beyond repair by using a 24-volt power supply (either 2 12-volt batteries in a series or a 24-volt motor generator set).

WARNING

Frozen batteries

Do not attempt to jump start the vehicle if the discharged battery is frozen, as the battery may rupture or explode.

WARNING

Battery

  • Never attempt to check the electrolyte level of the battery, as this may cause the battery to rupture or explode.

  • Keep all flames or sparks away from the battery. The battery produces hydrogen gas, which may cause an explosion if it is exposed to flame or sparks.

    If you do not follow these instructions exactly, serious personal injury and damage to the vehicle may occur. If you are not sure how to follow this procedure, seek qualified assistance. Automobile batteries contain sulfuric acid, which is poisonous and highly corrosive. When jump starting your vehicle, wear protective glasses and be careful not to get acid on yourself, your clothing, or the vehicle.

  • Do not attempt to jump start the vehicle if the discharged battery is frozen or the electrolyte level is low. The battery may rupture or explode.

  • Do not allow the (+) and (-) jumper cables to touch each other. This may cause sparks.

WARNING

Battery cables

Do not connect the jumper cable from the negative terminal of the booster battery to the negative terminal of the discharged battery. This can cause the discharged battery to overheat and crack or degrade. Connect one end of the jumper cable to the negative terminal of the booster battery, and the other end to a metallic point far away from the battery.

WARNING

Sulfuric acid risk

Automobile batteries contain sulfuric acid. When jump starting your vehicle, be careful not to get sulfuric acid on yourself, your clothing, or the vehicle. This acid is poisonous and highly corrosive.