The Best Jumper Cables for Every Situation
Let's Get That Car Started!
When your car doesn't start, the first thing you should do is check the battery. If the battery is dead, your next step is to find a jumper cable set. Jumper cables are an essential tool for anyone who owns a car. But with so many different types and brands on the market, it can be hard to know which ones to buy.
This blog post will break down the different types of the best jumper cables available and help you find the best ones for your needs. We'll also provide a few tips on using them properly so you can get your car up and running again in no time.
Types of Jumper Cables
There are three types of jumper cables: heavy-duty, standard, and mini. Standard jumper cables are the most common and can be used on most cars. Heavy-duty cables are for higher voltage systems, the standard cables handle most passenger vehicles, and Mini jumper cables are designed for smaller vehicles like motorcycles and ATVs.
When it comes to jumper cables, the most critical factor is the wire gauge. The lower the gauge number, the thicker the wire and the more current it can handle. So a 12-gauge jumper cable is thicker than a 16-gauge one and can carry more current.
But not all cars have the same battery voltage. A car with a 12-volt battery has a different voltage than a 24-volt battery. So it would be best if you used jumper cables with the correct voltage range for your car. Jumper cables with a higher voltage than your car battery can damage your car's electrical system.
It's also vital to use jumper cables that are long enough to reach from one car to the other. If the jumper cables are too short, you won't be able to connect them correctly.
So when choosing the best gauge jumper cables, pay attention to the wire gauge and the voltage rating. And make sure they are long enough to reach from one car to the other. So be sure you have chosen the best gauge for jumper cables for your needs.
How to Use Jumper Cables
Once you have a set of jumper cables, you must know how to use them properly. Follow these steps next time your car won't start:
- Park the working vehicle close to the non-working one but ensure that the two vehicles don't touch.
- Turn off all lights and accessories on both vehicles.
- Connect one end of the positive (red) cable to the positive terminal on the dead battery. Then connect the other end of the positive cable to the positive terminal on the working battery.
- Connect one end of the negative (black) cable to the negative terminal on the working battery. Then connect the other end of the negative cable to a metal ground on the non-working vehicle away from the battery (this could be a bolt on the engine block).
- Start the working vehicle and let it run for a few minutes before starting the non-working vehicle.
- Once both vehicles are running, disconnect the cables in reverse order: the negative cable first, then the positive cable.
When your car doesn't start, the first thing you need is a set of jumper cables. But with all the different options on the market, it can be tough to know which ones are right for you. That's why we've put together this guide to help you find the best jumper cables for your needs. Just click the button below to get started.