How Long to Jumpstart a Car After a Long Storage Period
Most newer cars are equipped with sophisticated electronic systems that can drain power over time, even when the car is left unused for extended periods. This can be particularly challenging if you need to jumpstart your car after months of non-use. This article will guide you through the process and discuss potential issues you may encounter.
Overview of the Problem
The question we often encounter is, how long would it take to jumpstart a car that has been sitting for over a month? If you've tried to jumpstart your 2013 Ford Fusion, for example, and it took more than 2 minutes with no success, there are several factors to consider.
Understanding Battery Drain
When a car is left unused for an extended period, such as 4 to 6 months, its electronic systems continue to consume power from the battery. This can lead to the battery being almost fully discharged. Even if you manage to generate a spark, the car may still not start due to the battery's state.
A common solution is to install a battery cut-off switch, which can help conserve power between uses. These switches typically cost between $15 to $27 and can save your car from being completely drained.
Jumpstarting Steps and Troubleshooting
Most cars require less than a minute to start when jumpstarted correctly. However, if your car appears completely dead despite sparking, it may indicate a more severe problem. Here are some steps and checks you should follow:
Check Your Connections
Ensure you are connecting the jumper cables properly. Even with a completely dead battery, the gauges, radio, and even the heater should come on. If none of these components work, the problem lies in the connections. Follow the instructions in your owner's manual carefully and visually inspect the batteries for positive and negative terminals. Cable colors can sometimes be misleading.
Inspect for Overheating
Check if the battery connections are getting hot. Loose, improperly connected, or internally damaged terminals can cause this. High current flowing through a bad connection can damage your car's electrical system. If you notice any overheating, immediately stop attempting to jumpstart the car to prevent severe electrical damage.
Clean the Terminals
The battery terminals should be tight and clean. If you see any green or white crust, clean it thoroughly with a wire brush or a mixture of baking soda and water. Poor contact can prevent successful jumpstarting.
Direct Jumpstart vs. Battery Charger
A direct jumpstart using another car’s battery might not always be the best approach, especially if the car is completely dead. A jumpstart can help the battery out, but it typically won’t replace it if it’s deeply discharged. If your car still doesn’t start after a jumpstart, it may not have the capacity to charge the battery.
In such cases, using a dedicated battery charger can be more effective. Charging the battery with a dedicated charger might help, but it’s important to note that if the battery has been unused for a while, it may not take a charge.
Seek Professional Help
If the above steps don’t work, you might need professional assistance. Local parts stores can provide battery charging and testing services. If the battery cannot be recharged, you’ll need to replace it.
Conclusion: When faced with a car that won’t start after a long period of storage, ensure you follow proper safety procedures to avoid electrical damage. If the issue persists, consulting a professional is recommended.