Winter in Duluth, MN, and other northern cities can be harsh, making it crucial to know how to jump start your car, especially when temperatures dip below freezing. A dead battery can leave you stranded at the most inconvenient times. This guide will help you jump start your vehicle safely and efficiently using a battery pack.
Precautions
Before attempting to jump start your car, keep these safety measures in mind:
- Read the Manual: Check your car’s owner manual for specific instructions or warnings.
- Wear Safety Gear: Use gloves and safety glasses to protect yourself from sparks or accidental contact with battery acid.
- Check for Damage: Ensure that the car battery and battery pack are in good condition, with no visible damage or leaks.
- Avoid Flames: Keep open flames and smoking materials away from the battery.
Equipment Needed
To jump start your car with a battery pack, you’ll need:
- A fully charged battery jump pack
- Insulated gloves
- Safety glasses
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Positioning the Vehicle and Battery Pack
Ensure the car needing the jump is turned off and in “Park” or “Neutral.”
2. Connecting the Battery Pack to the Car Battery
- Open the Hood: Locate the battery; it’s often near the front of the engine compartment.
- Attach the Positive Cable (usually red) from the battery pack to the positive terminal (+) of the dead battery.
- Attach the Negative Cable (usually black) to a grounded metal component of the car with the dead battery. This reduces the risk of sparks.
3. Turning on the Battery Pack and Waiting a Few Minutes
- Turn On the Battery Pack: Switch it on, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Wait: Allow a few minutes for the battery pack to transfer power to the car battery.
4. Starting the Car with the Dead Battery
- Start the Car: While the jump pack is still connected to the battery, try to start the car. If it doesn’t start immediately, check the jump pack for an error message and wait another minute and try again.
- Running the Engine: Once the car starts, keep it running for at least 30 minutes to recharge the battery. This will help prevent you from having to jump it again in the near future.
Top 3 Batter Jump Packs to Buy
NOCO Boost Plus GB40

- Compact and powerful
- Safety features to prevent incorrect connections
After-Jump Start Care
- Disconnect Safely:
- Turn off the battery pack.
- Remove the negative cable first, then the positive cable.
- Drive to Recharge:
- Drive your car for at least 30 minutes to allow the alternator to recharge the battery fully.
- Check the Battery:
- Inspect the car battery and the connections to ensure they’re secure and in good condition.
Conclusion
Knowing how to jump start your car is an essential skill, especially with Duluth’s harsh winters. Practice this process to be prepared for emergencies. A little preparation can save you from a lot of trouble down the road.
Stay safe and drive confidently!
For more tips and recommendations, follow our blog and feel free to reach out with any questions. Happy driving!