How to Start a Manual Transmission Car with a Dead Battery
If you’re like most drivers, you probably rely on your car’s battery to start the engine. But what happens if your battery dies? If you have a manual transmission car, you can still start it without a battery. Here’s how:
What You’ll Need
* A helper car with a good battery
* Jumper cables
* A slope (optional)
Safety First
Before you start, it’s important to take some safety precautions:
* Park both cars in a safe location, away from traffic.
* Set the parking brake on both cars.
* Turn off the engines on both cars.
* Open the hoods on both cars.
Connect the Jumper Cables
1. Identify the positive (+) and negative (-) terminals on both car batteries. The positive terminals are usually marked with a red cap or a “+” symbol, while the negative terminals are usually marked with a black cap or a “-” symbol.
2. Connect one end of the red jumper cable to the positive (+) terminal on the dead battery.
3. Connect the other end of the red jumper cable to the positive (+) terminal on the good battery.
4. Connect one end of the black jumper cable to the negative (-) terminal on the good battery.
5. Connect the other end of the black jumper cable to an unpainted metal surface on the dead car, such as the engine block.
Pop the Clutch and Start the Car
1. Get in the dead car and put the key in the ignition.
2. Turn the key to the “on” position, but do not start the engine.
3. Press down on the clutch pedal all the way.
4. Put the car in second gear.
5. Slowly release the clutch pedal while giving the car a little bit of gas.
6. If the car starts, keep your foot on the gas pedal until the engine is running smoothly.
Disconnect the Jumper Cables
Once the car is running, you can disconnect the jumper cables. To do this, simply reverse the steps you took to connect them.
Tips
* If you have a slope available, you can use it to help start the car. Park the dead car facing downhill, and then follow the steps above. The slope will help the car get moving, which will make it easier to start.
* If you can’t get the car started after a few tries, don’t give up. Keep trying, and eventually you’ll get it.
* If you’re having trouble connecting the jumper cables, make sure that the terminals are clean and free of corrosion. You can use a wire brush to clean them if necessary.
Conclusion
Starting a manual transmission car with a dead battery is not as difficult as it may seem. By following the steps above, you can get your car running again in no time.
