Dead Battery

Prepare

• Keep a set of jumper cables in your trunk — or better, a portable jump starter pack (no second car needed).
• Know the correct jump-start procedure for your vehicle (some hybrids/EVs have special instructions — check your manual).
• Save your roadside assistance number in your phone contacts.

Prevent

• Turn off all lights and accessories when you park.
• If your battery is more than 3–5 years old, have it tested at any auto parts store (free at most locations).
• Short frequent trips drain batteries faster — occasionally take a longer drive to let the alternator fully recharge.
• In extreme cold, battery capacity drops significantly — keep this in mind in winter months.

Respond

With jumper cables and a second vehicle:

1. Park the working car so the batteries are close but vehicles are not touching.
2. Connect red cable to dead battery (+), then red cable to good battery (+).
3. Connect black cable to good battery (-), then black cable to unpainted metal on the dead car (not the battery terminal — reduces spark risk).
4. Start the working car and let it run for 2–3 minutes.
5. Start the dead car. If it starts, remove cables in reverse order.
6. Drive for at least 30 minutes to recharge the battery.

With a portable jump starter: Follow the manufacturer's instructions — typically: connect red to (+), black to (-), then start the vehicle.

If the car won't start after jumping: The battery or alternator may need replacement — call a mechanic or roadside assistance.

Resources

• AAA Roadside Assistance: 1-800-222-4357
• AutoZone / O'Reilly / Advance Auto Parts — free battery testing at most locations
• Your insurance card — many policies include roadside assistance