How to Charge Your Car Battery

It has happened to the best of us. We go out to greet our vehicle and when it’s trim to hit the roads of Pensacola, Crestview, and Fort Walton Beach, the engine doesn’t start. And though this can cause some panic, it’s probably just because your battery doesn’t have enough juice.

This is why World Group 1 Ford of Pensacola has created this how to charge your car battery guide. Below, you find information on the two different ways to charge it: portable battery charger or jumper cables. We’ll also go into details about whether you need a new battery, and how our team of certified technicians can help.

Charging Your Car Battery – Portable Jump Starter

Typically, there are two ways to charge up your battery – using jumper cables and another car or with a portable battery charger. When using a portable jump starter, you won’t need another set of hands. Let’s go over the steps now:

1. Make sure both the jump starter and your vehicle are turned off.
2. Connect the charger to your battery by attaching the positive (+) clamp onto the positive post on your battery. Next, attach the negative (-) clamp on the negative battery post.
3. Next, set the volt and amps on your portable charger using the instructions provided. If you want to quickly charge your battery, use a higher amperage. However, slowly charging your battery with a low amperage will more adequality charge it.>
4. After the charger has done its work, turn it off, and disconnect the clamps from the post.

Charging Your Battery – Jumper Cables

If you do not have a portable charger, all you need is a set of working jumper cables and a buddy with a vehicle to get your car’s battery working again.

1. Ensure that both vehicles are off and are placed in the Neutral or Parked gear.
2. Attach one of the red positive (+) clips on your jumper cables to the positive terminal on your battery then attach the other red positive clip to your friend’s battery.
3. Now take one of the black negative (-) clips and place it on the negative post of your battery.
4. Attach the other black clip to an unpainted metal surface on your vehicle that is away from the battery, like a metal strut that holds the door open.
5. Start your buddy’s vehicle and let the engine run for a few minutes.
6. Then, try and start your vehicle. If it doesn’t start, make sure all of the cables are correctly connected. If it starts, drive around for at least 15 minutes to recharge your battery.

Signs You Need a New Battery

If you’re having trouble starting your vehicle even after charging it, you might need to purchase a replacement. You can also watch for these warning signs to see if your battery is beyond repair.

• Your check engine light is on
• Low battery fluid
• Swelling or bloated battery case
• Your battery is three years or older

Receive Professional Battery Services at World Ford Pensacola

If your vehicle is having issues starting or you are experiencing any off the warning signs above, visit the certified mechanics in our service center. They will be able to assess the problem and let you know if you need a replacement. If you do, we can also provide you with a new battery to keep your commutes in the Pensacola, Crestview, and Fort Walton Beach safe. Schedule your appointment for battery service today!