How to start automatic car when battery is dead

If you are an experienced driver, then it’s likely that you’ve faced a dead battery at some point. One of the main concerns with a dead battery is that you won’t be able to start your car. However, with the right knowledge and tools, it’s still possible to start an automatic car even when the battery is dead.

Before we dive into the steps for starting an automatic car with a dead battery, it’s important to understand that this method is only a temporary solution. It’s crucial to replace the dead battery as soon as possible to prevent further damage to your car’s electrical system.

That being said, here are the steps you can follow to start your automatic car when the battery is dead:

Step 1: Turn off all accessories in the car (lights, radio, AC, etc.) to reduce the load on the battery.

How to Start Automatic Car When Battery is Dead

Check the Battery

The first thing you should do is check the battery. Look for any corrosion on the battery terminals and clean them if you find any. Next, try to jump-start your car by using jumper cables and a car with a charged battery. If your car starts, let it run for a while to give the battery a chance to recharge.

Use a Battery Charger

If jumping the battery doesn’t work, you can try using a battery charger. Connect the charger to the dead battery and let it charge for several hours. Once fully charged, try to start the car. If the battery is still dead, it may be time for a new one.

Note: Never attempt to charge a frozen battery or a battery that has leaked.

Push Start the Car

If your car is a manual transmission, you can try push-starting it. Put the transmission in second gear and have someone push the car to get it rolling. As it picks up speed, release the clutch pedal quickly and press the gas pedal at the same time. This can create enough power to start the engine.

Call for Help

If none of these methods work, it may be time to call for help. Contact a mechanic or roadside assistance service to have the car towed to a garage where they can properly diagnose and fix the problem.

Check for Possible Causes

Test the Battery

If your car has an automatic transmission and won’t start due to a dead battery, the first thing to do is to check the battery for signs of life. Test the battery with a volt meter or a battery tester to determine whether it has enough charge remaining. If the battery is completely dead, it may need to be replaced before you can start your car.

Inspect the Alternator

If the battery is still in good condition but your car won’t start, it’s possible that the alternator is to blame. The alternator is responsible for charging the battery while you drive, so if it’s not working correctly, the battery may not have enough charge to start the car.

Check the Starter Motor

It’s also possible that the starter motor is the culprit. The starter motor is what turns the engine over when you turn the key, and if it’s not working properly, your car won’t start. Check for signs of wear or damage on the starter motor or its cables, and test the motor with a voltmeter to make sure it’s receiving power.

• If you’re not sure how to test the battery, alternator, or starter motor, take your car to a mechanic for a professional diagnosis.
• Keep in mind that other issues, such as a clogged fuel filter or a faulty ignition switch, could also be preventing your car from starting. These problems will require further troubleshooting to diagnose.

Get a Jump Start with Another Vehicle

What You’ll Need:

• Another vehicle with a charged battery
• Jumper cables
• A clean and dry place to park both vehicles

Instructions:

1. Position both vehicles with their batteries facing each other, but make sure they are not touching.
2. Turn off both engines and remove the keys from the ignition.
3. Attach one end of the jumper cables to the positive (+) terminal of the dead battery and the other end to the positive terminal of the charged battery. Make sure the cables are not touching any moving parts of the engine.
4. Attach one end of the second jumper cable to the negative (-) terminal of the charged battery. Attach the other end of the cable to an unpainted metal part of the engine block or frame of the stalled vehicle. Do not attach the cable to the negative terminal of the dead battery, as this can cause an explosion.
5. Start the engine of the vehicle with the charged battery and let it run for a few minutes.
6. Try to start the engine of the stalled vehicle. If it still doesn’t start, let both vehicles sit with the cables attached for a few more minutes to give the dead battery more time to charge.
7. Once the stalled vehicle is running, remove the jumper cables in the reverse order that they were attached.
8. Drive the vehicle for at least 15 minutes to recharge the battery.

Important note: Jump starting a vehicle can be dangerous if not done correctly. If you are unsure about any of these steps or feel uncomfortable performing them, please contact a professional mechanic or roadside assistance service for help.

Use a Jump Starter Pack

What is a Jump Starter Pack?

A jump starter pack is a portable battery that is used to start a vehicle when the car battery is dead. It is a compact and easy-to-use device that comes with jumper cables, and it can be stored in the trunk of your car for emergencies.

How to Use a Jump Starter Pack?

To use a jump starter pack, follow these simple steps:

1. Turn off all electrical devices in the car, such as lights, radio, and air conditioning.
2. Connect the positive (+) and negative (-) clamps of the jump starter pack to the corresponding terminals of the dead battery. Always connect the positive cable first and then the negative cable.
3. Start the car and keep it running for a few minutes to allow the battery to recharge.
4. Disconnect the clamps in reverse order (negative first and then positive) and remove the jump starter pack from the car.

What to Consider when Choosing a Jump Starter Pack?

When choosing a jump starter pack, consider the following factors:

• The type of vehicle you want to jump-start, as larger vehicles may require more powerful jump starters.
• The capacity of the jump starter pack, which is measured in ampere-hours (Ah).
• The features of the jump starter pack, such as built-in flashlight, USB ports, and air compressor.
• The price and brand of the jump starter pack, as some brands may offer better quality and warranty options.

Using a jump starter pack is a quick and easy solution to start an automatic car when the battery is dead. Always keep the jump starter pack charged and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to avoid any accidents or damages.

Consider Push or Roll-Starting the Vehicle

What is Push or Roll-Starting?

Push or Roll-starting a car is a process used to start a vehicle with a dead battery. It involves rolling the car down an incline, such as a hill, while it is in gear and then releasing the clutch pedal to engage the engine. This will cause the engine to start.

How to Push or Roll-Start a Car

Step 1: Check your surroundings. Make sure there are no obstacles in the path of the vehicle.

Step 2: Put the car in gear. If your car has a manual transmission, put it in second gear. If it has an automatic transmission, put it in Drive.

Step 3: Turn the ignition to the on position. This will activate the electrical systems on the car.

Step 4: Get a push start. Have someone push the car down an incline with a steady pace.

Step 5: Depress the clutch pedal. Once the car is moving, depress the clutch pedal to engage the engine.

Step 6: Release the clutch pedal. As soon as the engine engages, release the clutch pedal to allow the vehicle to continue running.

• If the car does not start on the first attempt, repeat steps 4-6 until it does.
• Be careful not to depress the clutch pedal too quickly or release it too slowly; this can cause the car to stall.

Note: Push or Roll-starting a car can be dangerous, especially if you’re not experienced in it. Make sure you take all necessary precautions and follow all safety rules and regulations.