MyVans Your Vehicle Solution Jump starting a car is a skill every driver should have. Whether you left your headlights on overnight or your battery is simply old and needs replacing, knowing how to jump start your car can save you from being stranded. In this article, we’ll go through the steps to jump start a 2013 Ford Escape.
Step 1: Find a Good Samaritan
The first step is to find someone with a car who is willing to help you jump start your Ford Escape. Look for someone with a car that has a battery that is at least as powerful as your own. This is important as attempting to jump start your car with a weaker battery can cause damage to both vehicles.
Step 2: Position the Vehicles
Park the two cars close enough to each other that the jumper cables can reach both batteries, but be sure to keep them at least a foot apart to prevent any accidental contact between the vehicles. Make sure both cars are in park or neutral with the handbrake engaged.
Step 3: Turn Off All Electrical Accessories
Turn off all electrical accessories in both cars, including radios, air conditioning, and lights. This will prevent any unnecessary drain on the batteries during the jump start process.
Step 4: Connect the Jumper Cables
Connect the jumper cables in the following order:
- 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 good battery.
- Connect the black cable to the negative (-) terminal of the good battery.
- Connect the other end of the black cable to an unpainted metal surface on the engine block of the dead car. This is a grounding point and will help prevent any sparks from causing an explosion.
Step 5: Start the Good Car
Start the good car and let it run for a few minutes to allow the battery to charge the dead battery. You can rev the engine slightly to increase the charging rate.
Step 6: Start the Dead Car
Attempt to start the dead car. If it starts, let it run for a few minutes to allow the alternator to charge the battery. If it does not start, wait a few more minutes and try again.
Step 7: Disconnect the Jumper Cables
Once the dead car is running, disconnect the jumper cables in the reverse order that you connected them:
- Disconnect the black cable from the engine block of the dead car.
- Disconnect the black cable from the negative (-) terminal of the good battery.
- Disconnect the red cable from the positive (+) terminal of the good battery.
- Disconnect the red cable from the positive (+) terminal of the dead battery.
Step 8: Keep the Dead Car Running
Keep the dead car running for at least 30 minutes to allow the alternator to fully charge the battery. During this time, avoid turning off the car and using any electrical accessories.
Step 9: Replace Your Battery
If your battery is old or has been jump started multiple times, it’s likely time to replace it. Consult your owner’s manual or a mechanic to find the right battery for your car.
Now you know how to jump start a 2013 Ford Escape. Remember that jump starting a car can be dangerous, so always follow these steps carefully and pay attention to any warning signs from your car during the process.
People Also Ask:
Can I Jump Start My Ford Escape with another Car?
Yes, you can jump start your Ford Escape with another car as long as the other car has a battery that is at least as powerful as your own.
What if My Ford Escape Won’t Start Even after Jump Starting?
If your Ford Escape won’t start even after jump starting, it may be a sign of a deeper issue with your car’s electrical system. Consult a mechanic to diagnose and fix the problem.
How Often Should I Replace My Ford Escape’s Battery?
Most car batteries last between 3-5 years. If your Ford Escape’s battery is older than this or has been jump started multiple times, it’s likely time to replace it.
