Last updated on February 15th, 2024 at 01:49 am
A dead car battery can leave you stranded and feeling helpless, but there are several dead car battery tricks that can help you get back on the road quickly.
In this article, we’ll explore seven dead car battery tricks that will help you get back on the road fast.
From tapping or turning the battery terminals to using a portable jump starter, these 7 dead car battery tricks are simple and can often get your car up and running.
Whether you are at home or on the road, these tricks can be a lifesaver in case of a dead battery.
Keep reading to learn more about these effective and easy-to-use tricks and never get stuck with a dead battery again.
7 Dead Car Battery Tricks
Tapping Battery Terminals
This is a simple trick that can work in some cases. If the battery terminals are loose, they can prevent the flow of electricity to the starter.
To fix this issue, tap the terminals with a wrench or turn them slightly with pliers. This can sometimes get the battery to work again, but if the problem persists, you’ll need to replace the battery.
Additionally, it’s important to regularly check the tightness of your battery terminals and clean them of any corrosion. Corroded terminals can reduce the flow of electricity and cause the battery to die.
Cleaning the terminals can be done with a wire brush or a solution of baking soda and water.
By keeping your battery terminals clean and tight, you can prevent future dead battery issues and ensure that your car starts every time you turn the key.
Push Starting your car
Push starting your car is a trick that can be done with the help of a friend or passerby.
This method is best for manual transmission cars and involves having someone push the car while you turn the key. To push start your car, make sure the car is in neutral. Turn the key to the “on” position but do not turn the engine over.
Have your friend or passerby push the car until it reaches a speed of about 10-12 mph. Once the car is moving, release the clutch and turn the key to start the engine. If done correctly, the engine should start and you should be able to drive away.
This trick is a simple and effective solution to a dead battery, but it’s important to take some precautions. Also, make sure the car is on level ground and there is no danger of traffic before attempting to push start the car.
Tricking The Computer
A dead battery can sometimes be fixed by bypassing the electronic control module (ECM) and sending fuel through the fuel pump.
This can be done by pressing down on the accelerator pedal before turning the key to start the engine. This will engage the fuel pump, sending fuel to the engine and fixing the coolant temperature sensor issue that was preventing the car from starting.
However, it’s important to note that a continuously running fuel pump relay can drain the battery. A fuel pump relay swap can help keep the battery in good condition.
If the engine still does not start, it’s best to seek the assistance of a mechanic.
Starting A Car In Neutral
Starting a car in neutral is a useful trick for cars with an automatic transmission. This is because moving the gear stick can establish an electrical connection inside the car’s neutral safety switch.
If the battery is low, this trick can sometimes start the car. To perform this trick, simply put the gear shift into neutral and then turn the key to start the engine.
If the engine does not start, it may be necessary to seek the assistance of a mechanic or to jump start the battery using jumper cables or a portable jump starter.
It is important to remember that manual transmission cars always need to be started in neutral, so this trick only applies to automatic transmission vehicles.
A Portable Jump Starter
A portable jump starter can be a lifesaver when your car battery dies far from home. It is a small device that can provide an electrical charge to the car battery, allowing the engine to start.
To use a portable jump starter, simply follow the instructions carefully to ensure that the device is connected properly and that you don’t damage your car or hurt yourself.
If you don’t have a portable jump starter, consider buying one as it is a valuable investment for when you are in a situation where your car battery has died.
It is always better to be prepared in case of an emergency, and a portable jump starter can help ensure that you can get back on the road as quickly and safely as possible.
Use Jumper Cables
Jumper cables are a simple and effective way to jump start a dead car battery. This method requires another car with a working battery and a set of jumper cables. To use jumper cables, follow these steps:
- Park both cars close together, but make sure the engines don’t touch.
- Open the hood of both cars and locate the batteries.
- Connect the red cable to the positive terminal of the dead battery.
- Connect the other end of the red cable to the positive terminal of the working battery.
- Connect the black cable to the negative terminal of the working battery.
- Connect the other end of the black cable to an unpainted metal surface on the dead car.
- Start the car with the working battery and let it run for a few minutes.
- Try starting the dead car. If it starts, remove the cables in the reverse order of how you connected them.
It is important to note that when using jumper cables, it is crucial to follow the correct steps to avoid damaging either car’s electrical system or risking personal injury.
If you are unsure about how to properly use jumper cables, it is best to seek assistance from a professional or someone familiar with the process. If the dead car does not start, the battery may be completely dead and may need to be replaced.
Apply Petroleum Jelly On The Car Battery
Applying petroleum jelly on the battery terminals is another trick to get your car started when the battery is dead. Petroleum jelly acts as a protective layer and helps to prevent corrosion on the battery terminals.
This can help to improve the flow of electricity and may revive the battery enough to start the car.
To apply petroleum jelly on the battery terminals, follow these steps:
- Locate the battery and remove the negative terminal first.
- Apply a small amount of petroleum jelly on the terminal and spread it evenly.
- Repeat the process on the positive terminal.
- Reattach the terminals and try to start the car.
If the car starts, it is important to check the battery and the terminals for any other issues, as this trick is only a temporary fix.
What to Do If Your Car Is Still Not Starting
If you have tried all of the tricks listed above and your car still won’t start, there might be an underlying issue with your vehicle.
Some common problems that can prevent a car from starting include a dead alternator, a faulty starter motor. In these cases, it is best to seek the assistance of a professional mechanic.
A professional mechanic will be able to diagnose the issue and repair it so you can get back on the road.
How Long Does A Car Battery Last?
The lifespan of a car battery varies, but typically ranges from 3 to 5 years. The lifespan is determined by various factors such as climate, usage, and battery maintenance. Regular battery checks and proper maintenance can extend its lifespan
How Much Does It Cost To Replace A Car Battery?
On average, it can cost anywhere from $50 to $200 to replace a car battery. Some high-end or luxury vehicles may cost more.
Conclusion
Stuck on the road with a dead car battery can be a nightmare, but these 7 tricks can help bring your car back to life. From tapping the battery terminals to using jumper cables, try these methods before calling for a tow truck.
And remember, regular maintenance and checks of your battery can prevent it from dying unexpectedly.
Don’t hesitate to replace the battery if it’s showing signs of weakness or you’ve tried all of these tricks and nothing is working.
A new battery can save you from future headaches and keep you safe while driving.
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