Jump Starting - SMART fortwo coupe Operator's Manual

Jump starting

G
Warning!
Failure to follow these directions will
cause damage to the electronic compo
nents, and can lead to a battery explosion
and severe injury or death.
Never lean over batteries while connect
ing or jump starting, you might get in
jured.
Battery fluid contains sulfuric acid. Do
not allow this fluid to come in contact with
eyes, skin or clothing. In case it does, im
mediately flush affected area with water,
and seek medical help if necessary.
A battery will also produce hydrogen gas,
which is flammable and very explosive.
Keep flames or sparks away from battery,
avoid improper connection of jumper
cables, smoking, etc.
Attempting to jump start a frozen battery
can result in it exploding, causing per
sonal injury.
Read all instructions before proceeding.
276
>> Practical hints.
!
Do not tow start vehicle.
!
Avoid repeated and lengthy starting
attempts.
Do not attempt to start the engine using a
battery quick charge unit.
If the engine does not run after several
unsuccessful starting attempts, have it
checked at the nearest authorized smart cen
ter.
Excessive unburned fuel generated by
repeated failed starting attempts may damage
the catalytic converter and may present a fire
risk.
Make sure the jumper cables do not have loose
or missing insulation.
Make sure the cable clamps do not touch any
other metal part while the other end is still
attached to a battery.
If the battery is discharged, the engine can be
started with jumper cables and the battery of
another vehicle. Observe the following:
• Jump starting should only be performed
when the engine and catalytic converter are
cold.
• Do not start the engine if the battery is
frozen. Let the battery thaw out first.
• Only jump start from batteries with the
same voltage rating (12 V). Jump starting
with a higher voltage battery could damage
the vehicle's electrical system, which will
not be covered by the smart Limited
Warranty.
• Only use jumper cables with sufficient
cross section and insulated terminal
clamps.
• Always make sure the jumper cables are not
on or near pulleys, fans or other parts that
move when an engine is started or running.