Top Reasons a Winter Car Wash Is Good for Your Car

A car can become pretty unsightly in the winter, particularly when driving along snowy roads and after traversing any area covered in salt. If you drive in a cold-weather state you’ve likely seen the results: a messy exterior that is in need of a serious cleaning. Some obvious advantages of doing so include:

  1. Rust Protection
  2. Keeping Parts from Failing
  3. A More Attractive Vehicle

But when temperatures hover around or below freezing, folks are not often keen to leave their homes and head out on the road again. You might even be concerned about the effects a car wash can have on a vehicle in extremely cold weather.

Should You Worry About a Car Wash in Freezing Weather?

When temperatures are frigid, should you even consider taking your car through a car wash? It can certainly be tempting to simply embrace that “winter look” until spring. But there are numerous benefits to washing off the salt and grime – sooner rather than later – on a regular basis.

Determining factors can also include:

  • The current temperature
  • Recent weather
  • Salt accumulation
  • Heated areas
  • Hand-dry services

Here are a few simple rules of thumb to help you sort out the best decision for your vehicle:

Reasons You Should Wash Your Car Regularly in Winter

Keeping your vehicle clean in wintertime will help protect it from rust caused by all that salt on the road, not to mention additional salty debris sprayed at you by other vehicles passing by. Rusty ice and grime can end up corroding the undercarriage and even get into the car if you’re not careful.

A good rule of thumb in wintery regions with more extreme weather is to get a car wash every one or two weeks. Naturally, you can make your own call. If you’re out on the road every day in horrible weather, it might be a good idea to go through a car wash more often. But if there hasn’t been any precipitation lately, another trip to the car wash might be unnecessary.

Just remember that after a very snowy day, those damaging elements will build up underneath your car, even if you don’t notice it happening.

When to Put off a Car Wash in Freezing Weather

Sometimes it’s best to exercise discretion before going to the car wash in the winter. For example, is there a heated area to park your vehicle? When it’s extremely cold outside, things can freeze up quickly. You may not be aware that water has accumulated in the locks or door jams of your vehicle. The last thing anyone needs is difficulty entering or exiting their car due to an effort to clean it on a wintry day.

If the temperatures are heading toward the low 30s or lower and there’s no heated space to wait in your vehicle, consider giving it a pass. And if worse comes to worst, a call to a few car washes near you might help determine which one is the safest. One that uses hand towels to dry off each vehicle can be the best option for drivers this time of year.

And as always, use common sense! If you haven’t been out on the road or it’s been an especially dry winter – with minimal road salt used – then yet another wash may not be worth your time and money.

Protect Yourself with Comprehensive Auto Insurance Coverage from AMIGO

There are other potential upsides to driving a vehicle that shines. It makes you more proud to be the owner, for one, and can eventually help boost the resale value. Another reason to put regular car washes on the calendar is that it can be very tempting to hunker down in the warmth of your home, even if your car desperately needs some attention.

Keep in mind that other protections are also important all year round. For most drivers this includes comprehensive insurance protection that matches their needs, as well as the other drivers who may need to use their vehicle.

Talk to an agent at Amigo Auto Insurance to make sure you’re getting the most appropriate insurance package today.

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Auto Shopping 101: What Add Ons Bump Up the Price of a New Car

Most people buying a new car end up paying more than the sticker price. But buyers should ultimately be in charge of what will bump up the price of a new car. Add-ons are a way to upsell buyers, in addition to providing features that drivers genuinely want.

So how do you avoid overpaying for your new car?

  1. First, determine how much money is in your budget to cover the full cost of owning a new vehicle.
  2. Then, become familiar with features that dealerships sell to car buyers for the model you are considering.
  3. Finally, decide which add-ons are must haves for you – and which are not.

To become more educated on the subject, consider some of the most common ways that dealers bump up the prices of new cars.

Extended Warranties

The extended warranty is a highly common way that car dealers make thousands of extra dollars on sales. However, keep in mind that a warranty may already be included in the cost of a new vehicle. As Kelley Blue Book puts it: “There are reputable companies that offer reliable warranties that can protect you from the cost of unexpected repairs. But there are at least as many, if not more, scammers looking to sell you a virtually useless extended warranty.”

Roof Racks

Unless you plan to strap bicycles or luggage on top of your car before your next road trip, you may want to reconsider this add-on. For one thing, racks can easily be installed on a vehicle after the fact. You may decide that the rear is a more practical location for your bike rack and that you want to find the most appropriate option for your needs.

In addition, a roof rack will add a couple inches to the height of the vehicle. You never know when you’re going to face a tight squeeze when heading toward a tunnel.

Various Types of Protection

Dealerships will often offer options for different types of promotions that can be added to a vehicle after the fact. And in many cases, it is difficult to know how much of a benefit these features will truly provide. If you are new to car shopping, take these offers of better protection with a grain of salt.

Here are some of the added protections, both inside and out, that might bump up the cost of a new car:

  • Leather protection
  • Tire and wheel protection
  • Paint (dent and ding) protection
  • Fabric protection

Ask About Dealer-Installed Accessories That Are Optional

From the latest in cool auto technology to stolen vehicle recovery, you may find out that certain accessories have already been installed in the vehicle you want to purchase. Take your time to go through the list and determine the cost of any dealer-installed accessories and whether you want to keep them.

Buyers should never feel pressured into buying these items. Salespeople can be skilled at convincing consumers that they need a particular add-on and that the cost is worth it. At the end of the day, you get to decide whether these items are in your budget and what you want included in the final sale.

Talk to an Auto Insurance Agent to Find the Best Deals for You

Add-ons aren’t the only thing that can boost the cost of owning a car. Routine maintenance and repairs, auto insurance, and gas should also be figured into the long-term cost of auto ownership.

Speak with an agent at Amigo Insurance to determine which insurance package is best for your needs. You may even want to have this conversation before buying your new car so you’re aware of what your monthly payments are going to be. Ask about premium options, annual price hikes, and anything else that might help you make a choice that is best for you.

Call Amigo to get a free quote from one of our agents today.

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4 Things You Need to Drive Legally

The number of drivers is increasing in the U.S., making it more important than ever for the general public to take steps to operate their vehicle legally and safely. Nearly 90 percent of adults in the country carry a driver’s license, showing just how much we depend on driving to get around.

But you need more than a valid driver’s license to be able to legally operate a vehicle in this country. As the steps – and the timing – for staying up to date with the laws vary state to state, it’s vital to know what the rules are in your area. This knowledge not only keeps drivers from getting penalized and owing fines, but it protects the quality of cars on the road, as well as the environment as a whole.

Take a look at the top four things nearly every driver will need before getting behind the wheel.

1. Getting a Valid Driver’s License – and Keeping it Up to Date

States generally require people to have a valid and current driver’s license to operate a motor vehicle. Driving without one can have serious consequences that may include paying a hefty fine, being arrested and having the infraction on your record. The requirement for carrying a license has multiple purposes:

  1. It shows you are a licensed driver
  2. Designates which class of vehicles you may legally operate
  3. Allows you to drive in any state and even out of the country
  4. Functions as a form of proper documentation and identification for many purposes
  5. Indicates a sense of personal responsibility
  6. Enables you to drive at some point in the future

In some states, driving without a valid license is considered a misdemeanor. Depending on where you live, that might be punishable by jail, and your car could even be impounded. Your driving privileges may also be suspended.

2. Some States Require Passing Vehicle Safety Inspections

Find out what local requirements exist in your area. Certain states require cars to pass auto safety inspections to show that they are in good condition for safe driving. Find out what regulations are mandated in your area and what steps you need to take to pass the inspection. Your car may be tested to:

  • Ensure driving/operational safety
  • Ensure proper emissions
  • Verify your vehicle identification number(VIN)

3. Passing a Routine Emissions Test for Your Car

Most if not all states require that vehicles pass routine emissions tests to indicate they don’t have problems that could harm  air quality, and therefore the environment. If you have undergone emissions testing then you are aware it is a quick and easy process that assesses your car for pollutant emissions. If your vehicle fails the emissions, it indicates that one of several problems may be at fault:

  • Faulty injectors
  • A problem with the oxygen sensors
  • An issue with something else that affects vehicle emissions

This test may only be required once every two years, and failing it can be a good thing. As a driver, you want to know if something in your car is not functioning properly. A test will generally outline the reason it failed, allowing you to make the necessary changes and schedule another car inspection.

4. Carrying Proper Auto Insurance Coverage

As a general rule, states require every driver to carry proper auto insurance coverage. Driving

without it can cause individuals to face penalties if they are caught and even cause their license to be suspended. Speak to an insurance agent if you are in need of insurance or may need to update your coverage.

Some drivers avoid carrying insurance out of a fear of making the payments. If this is the case, speak to a professional to find out if there is a low-cost alternative that is within your budget. Keep in mind that failing to carry auto insurance might save you money upfront, but it could end up costing you more in the long run and probably isn’t worth the risk.

At Amigo, our agents are ready to help you compare quotes and find the best deal available! They will help you find an excellent insurance plan that covers all your auto needs.

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Most Common Misconceptions about Electric Vehicles (EVs)

You’ve probably heard a lot about electric vehicles (EVs) lately – and have likely seen one or two of them on the road. Yet there are still a lot of misconceptions about EVs that can make it hard to know whether buying one is even feasible, let alone a good decision for you and your family.

Car shopping always requires a bit of research, especially as automakers introduce more battery cars and plug-in hybrid options. Below, check out some of the most common myths about EVs. In most cases, what you’ll find is that the truth is nuanced, and public perceptions may still be catching up with lower costs and advancements in technology.

Myth 1: EVs Are Too Expensive to Buy and Maintain.

There is no denying that buying an EV can be a hefty investment up front. But they are often cheaper to maintain than traditional gas-powered cars over time. This is because electric cars:

  • Don’t require oil changes
  • Won’t need exhaust system work
  • Lack a need for other repairs associated with gas-powered cars
  • Are immune to rises in gas prices

The battery may need to be replaced eventually, but this cost should be far less than what you would pay for regular maintenance on a gas-powered vehicle over the years.

Best of all, many states offer tax incentives and discounts when it comes to purchasing an EV. Take a look at the Qualified Plug-In Electric-Drive Motor Vehicle Tax Credit to see how much you can save. Also, find out what aid is available in your area to see if it will bring down the price of a car enough for it to be affordable for you.

Myth 2: Charging Takes Too Long and Is Inconvenient.

When it comes to charging your EV, you can choose between plugging it into a home charger or using public charging stations. Home chargers usually provide power faster than public charging stations, which can take 30 minutes or more depending on the needs of your particular vehicle.

However, most people don’t need to charge their cars all the way before taking off – just enough for their daily commute. So if you’re only going out for errands or small trips throughout the day, then charging won’t be as big of an issue as you think! This is one area where developments are continuously making the situation easier and more accessible for EV drivers.

Myth 3: EVs Aren’t as Powerful as Gas-Powered Engines.

Ever heard of Formula E, an all-electric auto race? Times are changing. This myth has been somewhat debunked, since electric sports cars began outperforming some of their competitors in terms of speed and acceleration.

If you’re looking for power, you may still end up with a traditional gas guzzler. But many electric cars now come with just as much torque as their gasoline counterparts.

True: Electric and Hybrid Cars Are Getting Easier to Purchase and Own

The good news is that EVs are becoming more affordable each year. For example, according to Car and Driver, a 2022 all-electric Nissan Leaf costs $28,495, well below what a similar car would have cost a decade ago. It’s one reason more drivers than ever are seriously considering buying or leasing a hybrid or electric vehicle. They are particularly popular among people who want better performance without sacrificing power or efficiency.

Talk to an AMIGO Insurance Agent About Getting Low-Cost Coverage for Your Car

Advancements in technology are making EVs increasingly powerful, even when compared to traditional gas-powered engines. As more folks demand solutions that are better for our environment, they are turning toward a growing list of efficient yet reliable EVs.

If there have been any changes in your family’s driving circumstances, contact an auto insurance agent as soon as possible to ensure you have all the protection you need.

At Amigo, our agents are ready to help you compare quotes and find the best deal available! They will help you find an excellent insurance plan that covers all your auto needs.

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How to Recharge Your Air Conditioning

The weather is warmer and the sun is stronger – this means you’ll likely be turning on your car’s air conditioner again after a long winter. But what happens when your system starts to lose power and you no longer feel a burst of cold air? It might be time to recharge your A/C.

What you’ll need:

  • Refrigerant / Dispenser with Trigger and Gaug
  • Safety glasses and gloves

Wearing safety glasses while working under the hood is suggested to protect your eyes. Wearing gloves can also help prevent any skin damage caused by freezing refrigerant.

Step 1: Turn your A/C On.

Set your air conditioner to its maximum cool setting with the blower set to high.

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Step 2: See if your A/C Compressor is Running

When your A/C system is set to high and functioning properly, pulleys at the end of the compressor should be spinning. If your compressor is functioning as it should, but you still don’t feel a big burst of cool air, it’s likely you’re just running low on refrigerant. Especially if you still feel a slight breeze coming through.

If the clutch is not engaged and pulleys are not spinning, it could mean that your A/C system is low on refrigerant, or there are electrical problems with the compressor itself.

In both cases, adding more refrigerant after testing this should help you see what the issue is.

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Step 3: Check the Pressure

To check the pressure, first, be sure to turn your car off. Then, find the low-pressure port. This is typically located on the passenger side of the engine and can be identified by a black cap with the letter “L” written on it.

Step 4: Attach Recharge Hose

Place the fitting at the end of your recharge hose, cover the low-pressure port and push until you hear a click. Be careful upon handling. Accidentally pulling the trigger can result in releasing refrigerant from your A/C system.

Step 5: Start your vehicle

Start your car and ensure that your air conditioner is on its highest settings. Monitor your AC compressor to see if your clutch is engaged and the pulleys are spinning. If engaged, try to get a reading as close to 40 psi as possible. Anything under 40 is considered undercharged.

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Step 6: Install refrigerant can onto recharge hose

Once you’ve installed the refrigerant can hold upright and squeeze the trigger for 5-10 second increments. Upon releasing the trigger, be sure to measure the pressure gauge until you are as close to 40 psi as possible.

Step 7: Check Temperate Inside your Car

Insert a thermometer into your A/C vents and check the temperature. If your system is fully charged, you should get a reading between 28-30 degrees.

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Note that this is merely a temporary fix to a potentially bigger problem. Should your system be missing refrigerant, it could mean that there is a leak that must be looked at by a professional.

ac
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How Many Miles Can You Drive on Empty?

It’s very likely that you’ve seen your low fuel warning light on your dash at some point or another. Unfortunately, for various cars, once the light turns on, you’re unable to read just how much is left and if you’ll be able to make it to the nearest gas station.

Luckily, YourMechanic made a list of the 50 best-selling cars in the US and approximately how many miles each car has before it actually runs out of gas. So, while it’s never recommended to let your gas run dangerously low, it’s likely that you’ll make it to your location on your reserve.

Is your car on the list?

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Springtime Hazards for Homeowners and Drivers – Make sure you’re ready!

April showers might bring May flowers but spring weather, in general, can bring about a whole new set of problems too. Many of them hitting you where it hurts most: your wallet.

Sure, while the weather is a lot nicer, warm spring temperatures help melt away any excess snow and reveal the damage caused by long and icy winters. Not to mention the floods and hail that typically come with the season.

Fortunately, if you’re aware of the common seasonal risks, you can plan accordingly and check to see if you’re covered.

Potholes

Potholes are holes in the pavement caused by the presence of water in the underlying soil structure. Water under the soil structure can weaken the pavement and, as cars and trucks pass over these weak spots, cause the material to become cracked or break down from the weight thus creating a hole. With spring showers to come, the probability of potholes grows. And while dodging them left and right is possible, it’s certainly not the safest way to drive. In addition, hitting potholes can result in the misalignment of your wheels and can affect your steering.

Flooding

What’s Spring without a little rain? Mix a couple of thunderstorms with any leftover melting snow and you’ve got yourself a recipe for flooding. Flooding can affect the structure of your home, your belongings, and even your family if not taken care of properly.

Hail

Springtime hail storms can do a lot of damage to both homes and cars. This damage, of course, depending on the size of the hail. Unfortunately, it’s never easy to tell what size will fall so it’s important to know if you’re covered. Hail can easily damage roof shingles and sidings, windows and more.

Ice Dams

When snow or rain falls, melts and refreezes on a roof, ice shingles can form a sort of dam that causes snowmelt or rainwater to back up. These backups can result in water leaking into your home and ruining your walls and other surfaces. Makes sure to check your roof to ensure you don’t have any dams.

Cracked Concrete

When facing a snowy winter, the use of salt or sand to melt away any snow is common. However, when the snow has melted away, you may find unsightly cracks in your driveway. While this is more of a wear-and-tear issue, if you’re one to worry about your curb appeal, this is a problem that you’ll likely face once it’s warmer out.

Spring brings a lot of great things: longer days, warmer weather, and lots of colors. A great break from a dreary and gray winter. However, if not prepared, the new season can also be a whole new headache. Call an Amigo Insurance agent today and learn how we can help make this spring and easy one.

Signed,
Amigo Insurance

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5 Car Maintenance Tasks You Can Do Yourself

We all try to play the saving game as best as we can. However, when even the smallest of things go wrong with our cars, it’s easier to schedule time at the shop than try to fix it ourselves, costing us quite a bit of money in the process. And while many things should be left to the professionals, there are a couple of tasks that you can easily check or fix at home.

Things You’ll Need

  • Rag or towel
  • Tire Pressure Gauge
  • Receptacle
  • Your Car’s Manual

Windshield Wipers

windshield wipers

You don’t need to be a car genius to know how to change your windshield wipers. Blade set-up may differ from car to car so it’s important to check your vehicle’s manual, but it goes something like this:

  1. Lift the blades, similar to when you wash them, and remove old blades.
  2. Be sure to look at how the old blades connect to the metal arms. This so you know how your new ones will be attached.
  3. Find the tab on the underside of the wiper and push to remove old blade.
  4. Attach new blades carefully so as to not bend or scratch your windshield.
  5. Line everything up and make sure they are both secure.
  6. Generally, the packaging for new blades offers additional helpful tips and diagrams in case you’re unsure.

Tire Pressure

tire pressure

Having correct tire pressure is very important as it helps evenly distribute the weight of your car. When tire pressure is off, due to either under or over-inflating, the tire loses that stability and can negatively impact your car’s stride. When tire pressure is too low, you’ll see a TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) sensor light up on your dashboard. This means it’s time to check your tires. Luckily, this doesn’t have to break the bank and can easily be done in less than 5 minutes with a basic tire pressure gauge.

  1. First, be sure to check your vehicle’s recommended PSI. This can be found on the inside of the driver’s side doorjamb or in your owner’s manual.
  2. Remove the caps from the tire air valves; place the gauge on the valve creating a solid seal between gauge and valve.
  3. Apply pressure to get a reading. Do this for all four tires.
  4. If the pressure is too low, use an air compressor to add air. These are available at many gas stations. Ensure that you add air to match your vehicle’s PSI.
  5. If you overfill your tires, use the back end of pin to remove any extra air.

Fluid Levels

fluid levels

Don’t let the sight of your engine or fancy car terminologies intimidate you. Checking your vehicle’s fluid levels can be quite easy and time effective. As a general rule, a fluid level check is recommended every 1-2 months. To check any fluids under your hood, be sure to park your car in a flat, well-lit area and let the engine cool for about 20 to 25 minutes.

Check Your Oil

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  1. Identify the dipstick. This is a long, thin rod with a ring or handle at the top. Not to be confused with your transmission fluid dipstick. As always, refer to your owner’s manual to be sure.
  2. Pull the dipstick all the way out, wipe it with a rag or towel and reinsert. This will ensure a better reading of the fluid level.
  3. After a couple of minutes, pull the dipstick out once more and check if the oil level is near the FULL line.
  4. If not, add more oil. Your manual will state what kind of oil is best for your vehicle.
  5. Be sure to never overfill the oil reservoir.
  6. To add oil, simply locate the reservoir, remove the cap and use a funnel to add. Wipe any excess or spilled oil with a rag or towel. Place the cap securely on the reservoir and recheck your levels.
  7. If you notice that your oil is black or brown and not clear light brown and shiny, you might need to go get your oil changed professionally.
  8. For a helpful graphic, click here.

Check Your Windshield Wiper Fluid

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  1. Find the windshield wiper fluid reservoir. This is usually a white plastic container or tube with the picture of a windshield. You can find the exact location of this reservoir in your manual.
  2. If the level is lower than the FILL line, remove the cap and add the appropriate fluid with a funnel. Do not add water.
  3. Be sure to close the lid securely once you’re finished.

Flush a Radiator

radiator flush

Keeping a radiator from overheating is essential. Unfortunately, over time, sludge can build up inside the generator making your coolant less effective. In turn, this can negatively affect your engine’s performance and mileage. A coolant service is generally recommended every 30,000 miles or five years. However, it’s always important to check your owner’s manual for your vehicle’s recommended specifications. Here’s how that goes:

  1. Make sure your engine is cool. This will prevent any injury should you make any contact with the engine. A good time to work is two hours after your vehicle’s been last used.
  2. Locate your vehicle’s radiator drain plug. Place a coolant receptacle under the drain and unscrew the plug. Allow the coolant to drain into the receptacle.
  3. Replace drain plug and remove the radiator cap. With a funnel, add radiator flush cleaning solution to the radiator and fill the rest with water.
  4. Replace and tighten the cap. Start your car, turn your heater on to the hottest setting, then let cool for about 10 -15 minutes. After those minutes are up, turn your car off and wait for your car engine to cool.
  5. After your engine has cooled back down, unscrew the drain plug and empty its contents into your receptacle.
  6. Replace drain plug. With your funnel, fill the radiator with 50% coolant and 50% water. Tighten all caps and voila!

Jump Start Your Car

jumpstarter

Knowing how to jump-start a car is an essential roadside know-how. In many cases, it can not only help you get back on the road but also help be a good Samaritan by knowing how to help other drivers in need.

  1. Have a friend or family member offer to help. Have them drive the good car up to your car so batteries are as close as possible.
  2. Attach the red positive cable to the good car battery terminal, then attach the other red positive cable to your car’s battery terminal.
  3. Attach the black negative cable to the good car battery, then ground the car by attaching the other black negative to a solid, unpainted metal surface on your car (a bolt, for example) as far away from the battery as possible. Avoid any moving parts in the engine.
  4. Start the good car first and wait 2 minutes. Then, start your car and wait for 2 minutes.
  5. Remove the cables in the reverse order they were attached in.
  6. Let your car run for 2 more minutes then hit the road!
  7. For a helpful diagram, click here.

Simple as many of these steps may be, be sure to recognize when something is out of your capabilities or knowledge. If you’re unsure of how to proceed, take your care to a professional and avoid any further damage.

Signed,
Amigo Insurance

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How to Jump a Car Battery

You hop in your car, ready to go, only to hear a strange clicking noise when you turn your keys in the ignition. It sounds like your battery is dead.

So now what? An experienced driver likely knows how to approach the situation. But what about those who’ve never dealt with the frustration of their car not turning on?

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help:

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1) Suppose a friend or any Good Samaritan offers to help. Have them drive the GOOD CAR up to YOUR CAR so the batteries are as close as possible.

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2) Attach the red ‘positive’ cable to the GOOD CAR battery terminal, then attach the other red ‘positive’ cable TO YOUR car battery terminal.

3) Attach the black ‘negative’ cable to the GOOD CAR battery, then ‘ground’ the car by attaching the other black ‘negative’ to a solid, unpainted metal surface on YOUR CAR (such as a bolt), as far away from the battery as possible. Avoid any moving parts in the engine.

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4) Start the GOOD CAR first, wait 2 minutes, then start YOUR CAR, wait for 2 minutes.

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5) Remove the cables in the REVERSE order they were attached in (i.e Black/Your Car, Black/Good Car, Red/Your Car, Red/Good Car)

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6) Let YOUR CAR run for 2 more minutes then hit the road.

Remember:

Red Goes to Red – RED = Positive +

Black Goes to Black – BLACK = Negative –

No Luck?

If this doesn’t work, it may mean that the terminals in your car battery are no corroded. You may want to move them back and forth to try and get a connection and get rid of some of the gunk on them. If you have an older car, it could also just mean that your battery is old. If that’s the case, it’s time to replace the battery.

Make sure to always have jumper cables in your trunk just in case an accident happens.

Signed,
Amigo Insurance

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Electric shock hazard: Failure to follow these step-by-step instructions could result in electrical shock or other serious injuries. If you’re unsure about anything in this article, please contact a mechanic or another car specialist.

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