Jump Starting - Honda 2004 Civic Si Owner's Manual

Although this seems like a simple
procedure, you should take several
precautions.
A battery can explode if you do
not follow the correct procedure,
seriously injuring anyone
nearby.
Keep all sparks, open flames,
and smoking materials away
from the battery.
1. Open the hood, and check the
physical condition of the battery.
In very cold weather, check the
condition of the electrolyte. If it
seems slushy or like ice, do not try
jump starting until it thaws.
NOTICE:
If a battery sits in extreme
cold, the electrolyte inside can f reeze.
Attempting to jump start with a f rozen
battery can cause it to rupture.
2. Turn off all the electrical
accessories: heater, A/C, stereo
system, lights, etc. Put the
transmission in Neutral and set
the parking brake.
3. Connect one jumper cable to the
positive ( ) terminal on your ＋
battery. Connect the other end to
the positive ( ) terminal on the ＋
booster battery.

Jump Starting

4. Connect the second jumper cable
to the negative ( ) terminal on
−
the booster battery. Connect the
other end to the grounding strap
as shown. Do not connect this
jumper cable to any other part of
the engine.
5. If the booster battery is in another
vehicle, have an assistant start
that vehicle and run it at a fast idle.
Taking Care of the Unexpected
173