Should I Jump Start my Ford Vehicle Battery?

There may come a time when you try to start your vehicle…and nothing happens. In those situations, a dead or discharged battery is often the culprit.

There are a couple of ways to check: If the starter clicks or makes no sound, and the headlights are dim or don’t turn on at all, chances are it’s the battery.

Ford Motor Company do not recommend you 'jump start' the battery as this can cause complications, for example, if anything goes wrong you may void your warranty or if there is a more complicated problem causing the battery drain it can make it more difficult for a dealership to diagnose the issue.

Have your battery tested at your local dealership if you see or experience the following:

• Corrosion around the terminals or posts
• Damage on the terminals or posts
• Frays or cuts in the battery cables
• Loose battery cables or terminals
• Worn drive belts
• Bulging or deformation in the battery casing
• Movement or wiggling of the battery in its mounting
• Constant charging or electrical system problems
• Difficulty getting your engine to start

Your local dealer will be able to determine if there is an issue with the battery or if it is elsewhere and they can replace or recharge the battery.

However, there may be instances where it is necessary to jump start a vehicle.  Please follow this process for jump starting.

1. Open the bonnet
2. Correctly locate the positive and negative battery terminals for the vehicle
3. Attach the positive end of your jump cable to the positive terminal
4. Attach the negative end of your jump cable to the negative terminal
5. Start your support vehicle or power supply and run for a few minutes
6. Start your vehicle and you should be good to go

For specific information on your vehicle, refer to your Owner's manual.