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Jumper cables: what you need to know

Jumper cables are used to start the engine when the battery is discharged. They consist of two stranded cables with special alligator clips at the ends. The power source may be another vehicle’s battery, a spare battery, or a jump starter.

Types of jumper cables available on the market

By set contents:

Standard.
With advanced functionality: a battery charge indicator and an overload protection unit.

By insulation material:

Polymer. These are inexpensive but are prone to cracking in subzero temperatures.
Rubber. These are more elastic in hot temperatures, however, they lose flexibility and deform in the cold.
Silicone. These cables are resistant to high and low temperatures.

By conductive material:

Copper. They have low resistance and are intended for the currents of up to 1,000 A.
Aluminium with copper additive. These are affordable and suitable for vehicles that have engines with small displacements. They conduct currents of up to 400 A.
The cables may have varied lengths. Those products that are 2.5 – 4 m in length are considered optimal. Cables shorter than 2.5 m will make the connection process more difficult due to the large distance between vehicles, while the cables longer than 4 m feature high resistance.
The conductor’s diameter may be 6, 9, or 12 mm. This value depends on the displacement of the engine being started. For instance, the first ones are only suitable for vehicles with 1.5-Litre engines.

By amperage:

200 to 1,000 A;
over 1,000 A.
By the type of alligator clips:
Insulated. These cables are safe for operation.
Not insulated. These may cause short circuits and cable fires.

Recommendations for using jumper cables

Do not use cables with a conductor diameter that is less than 5 mm.
When connecting the cables, observe the polarity, starting with the positive terminal. Remove the cables in reverse order.
Make sure the ignition is off on both vehicles.
Avoid wire clamps touching each other since this may cause a short circuit.
Never touch the clips with bare hands.
If the engine on the vehicle with the discharged battery fails to start, let the engine of the donor vehicle run for 20 to 25 minutes. Stop the engine and try again.

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FAQ

What are jump leads?

Jump leads, also known as jumper cables, are a pair of insulated wires with alligator clips at each end used to jump-start a dead vehicle battery by connecting it to a live battery.

How do I use jump leads to jump-start a car?

Firstly, park both vehicles with their batteries as close as possible, turn off the engine of both vehicles, and make sure that both batteries are of similar voltage. Then, connect one end of the red (positive) cable to the positive terminal of the dead battery and the other end to the positive terminal of the live battery. Next, connect one end of the black (negative) cable to the negative terminal of the live battery and the other end to an unpainted metal surface on the engine block or chassis of the dead vehicle. Finally, start the engine of the live vehicle and allow it to run for a few minutes, then attempt to start the engine of the dead vehicle.

Is it safe to use jump leads to jump-start a car?

Yes, it is safe as long as you follow the correct procedure and take necessary precautions. Always wear protective gloves and eye wear, ensure that the clips do not touch each other or any metal surface, and avoid smoking or using any open flames near the batteries.

Can I jump-start a car with a flat battery in the rain?

It is not recommended to jump-start a car in the rain or in wet conditions, as water can conduct electricity and increase the risk of electric shock. If possible, wait for the rain to stop and for the ground to dry before attempting to jump-start the car.

Can I use jump leads to jump-start a car with a different size battery?

It is not recommended to use jump leads to jump-start a car with a battery that has a different voltage or capacity than the battery in the other car. Doing so can damage the vehicle's electrical system and cause a fire.

How long should I leave the engine running after jump-starting a car?

After jump-starting a car, you should leave the engine running for at least 15-20 minutes to allow the alternator to recharge the battery. Additionally, avoid turning off the engine until you have driven the car for a while to prevent the battery from going flat again.

Do I need to replace my car battery after jump-starting it?

Jump-starting a car does not necessarily mean that the battery needs to be replaced. However, if your battery is old or has been frequently jump-started, it may need to be replaced soon. It is best to have your battery tested by a professional to determine its condition.

Can I use jump leads to jump-start a motorcycle?

Yes, jump leads can be used to jump-start a motorcycle in the same way as a car. However, make sure to use a motorcycle battery of similar voltage and capacity to avoid damaging the motorcycle's electrical system.