Important errands are quickly derailed by a dead car battery. A delayed day due to a dead battery can be very frustrating, but few drivers know what to do if they have a dead battery. The following auto repair tips outline steps to take when your car battery dies.
- Consider the Causes: The recognition of a dead battery when you try to start the car puts a sinking feeling in the stomach. Productive thinking can help you stave off the crippling disappointment that follows car failure. Furthermore, recounting possible causes for a dead battery informs your next step. First, check to see if your vehicle’s lights were left on overnight. If this is the case, your vehicle will likely operate successfully after a jumpstart. Next, take a look at the battery itself. Built up corrosion and waterless battery cells indicate a more serious problems. In this case, drivers are likely in need of a tow truck.
- Try A Jumpstart: A vehicle jumpstart is a relatively simple procedure. Start by obtaining a second vehicle and a pair of jumper cables. A car-savvy friend is likely able to provide both of these items. Next, line up the two vehicles so that the cables can reach both batteries. Follow these steps exactly to connect the two batteries: Start by connecting a red clamp to the positive terminal of the working battery. Then attach the other red clamp to the positive terminal of your battery. Next, connect the black clamp to the negative terminal of your friend’s battery. Finally, attach the last black clamp to any metal section of your vehicle. Start your friend’s engine and let it run for several minutes. Now start your own vehicle. If the jumpstart is successful, remove the cables in reverse order.
If the jumpstart is unsuccessful, your car battery is beyond repair. The quickest way to remedy this scenario is by contacting a nearby Schaumburg auto repair shop. Casey Automotive offers 24-hour towing. Contact one of our three convenient locations at (866) 709-3522 to schedule a battery replacement immediately.