Emergency on the Road? How to Jump Start Subaru Legacy in Minutes
What To Know
- Whether you left your headlights on, the battery is simply old, or you haven’t driven it in a while, knowing how to jump start your Subaru Legacy is a valuable skill.
- Connect the other end of the red cable to the positive (+) terminal of the good battery in the donor vehicle.
- Connect the other end of the black cable to a metal grounding point on the Subaru Legacy’s chassis, away from the battery.
The Subaru Legacy, known for its reliability and performance, can sometimes fall victim to a dead battery. Whether you left your headlights on, the battery is simply old, or you haven’t driven it in a while, knowing how to jump start your Subaru Legacy is a valuable skill. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process, step-by-step, ensuring a safe and successful jump start.
Essential Items for a Successful Jump Start
Before you begin, gather the following items:
- Jumper cables: Choose heavy-duty cables with insulated clamps for maximum safety.
- Good Samaritan vehicle: A vehicle with a fully charged battery.
- Safety glasses: Protect your eyes from potential sparks.
- Gloves: Offer protection from cold metal and potential battery acid spills.
- A safe location: A flat, level surface away from any flammable materials.
Safety First: Understanding the Risks
Jump starting a car involves working with electricity, so it’s crucial to prioritize safety:
- Never smoke or allow open flames near the batteries.
- Avoid touching the battery terminals while the engine is running.
- Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from potential spills or sparks.
- If you’re unsure about any step, consult a professional mechanic.
Locating Your Subaru Legacy’s Battery
The battery in most Subaru Legacy models is located in the engine compartment, typically on the passenger side.
- Open the hood: Locate the battery, easily identifiable by its black and red terminals.
- Positive (+) terminal: The positive terminal is usually marked with a “+” sign and is often red.
- Negative (-) terminal: The negative terminal is marked with a “-” sign and is usually black.
Connecting the Jumper Cables – Step-by-Step
Follow these steps for a safe and effective connection:
1. Park both vehicles safely: Ensure the vehicles are close enough for the cables to reach, but not touching. Apply the parking brake and turn off both vehicles.
2. Connect the positive (red) clamp: Connect one end of the red cable to the positive (+) terminal of the dead battery in your Subaru Legacy.
3. Connect the other positive (red) clamp: Connect the other end of the red cable to the positive (+) terminal of the good battery in the donor vehicle.
4. Connect the negative (black) clamp: Connect one end of the black cable to the negative (-) terminal of the good battery in the donor vehicle.
5. Connect the other negative (black) clamp: Connect the other end of the black cable to a metal grounding point on the Subaru Legacy‘s chassis, away from the battery. This could be a bolt or unpainted metal surface.
Starting the Subaru Legacy
1. Start the donor vehicle: Start the engine of the vehicle with the good battery and let it run for a few minutes.
2. Attempt to start the Subaru Legacy: Try starting your Subaru Legacy. It might take a few attempts, so don’t give up immediately.
3. Let the Subaru Legacy run: Once the engine starts, let it run for about 10-15 minutes to allow the battery to charge.
4. Disconnect the jumper cables: Disconnect the cables in the reverse order of connection. Be careful not to allow the clamps to touch each other.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If your Subaru Legacy doesn‘t start after following these steps, consider the following:
- Weak battery: Even if the donor vehicle has a good battery, your Subaru Legacy’s battery might be too weak to hold a charge.
- Loose connections: Ensure all the jumper cable clamps are securely connected to the terminals.
- Faulty starter: A faulty starter can prevent the engine from turning over.
- Dead battery: If the battery is completely dead, a jump start might not be enough to revive it. You may need to replace the battery.
Post-Jump Start Care
- Drive the Subaru Legacy: Once you’ve successfully jump started your Subaru Legacy, drive it for at least 30 minutes to allow the battery to fully recharge.
- Check the battery: Have your battery checked by a mechanic to determine its health and whether it needs replacement.
- Consider a battery charger: Invest in a battery charger to maintain your Subaru Legacy’s battery and prevent future jump starts.
Alternatives to Jump Starting
If you can’t find a donor vehicle or are uncomfortable with jump starting, consider these alternatives:
- Battery booster: A battery booster is a portable device that provides a jump start without needing another vehicle.
- Mobile battery service: Many roadside assistance services offer battery jump starts.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you’re unable to jump start your Subaru Legacy or suspect a more serious issue, consult a qualified mechanic. They can diagnose the problem and provide necessary repairs.
FAQs
1. Can I jump start my Subaru Legacy with a different type of vehicle?
It’s generally safe to jump-start your Subaru Legacy with a different type of vehicle, but it’s important to use the correct jumper cables and ensure the batteries are of similar voltage.
2. How long can I leave the jumper cables connected?
It’s best to disconnect the jumper cables once the Subaru Legacy engine starts. Leaving them connected for an extended period can damage the battery or electrical system.
3. What if my Subaru Legacy‘s battery is completely dead?
If the battery is completely dead, a jump start might not be enough. You may need to replace the battery.
4. How often should I check my Subaru Legacy‘s battery?
It’s recommended to check your battery’s condition every six months or when you notice any signs of a weak battery, such as slow cranking or dimming headlights.
5. What are the signs of a bad battery?
Signs of a bad battery include slow cranking, dimming headlights, clicking noises when you try to start the engine, and a swollen or leaking battery case.
Final Thoughts: Keeping Your Subaru Legacy Running Smoothly
Knowing how to jump start your Subaru Legacy is a valuable skill that can save you time and frustration. By following the steps outlined in this guide and prioritizing safety, you can confidently revive your vehicle’s battery and get back on the road. Remember to maintain your battery’s health with regular checks, and don’t hesitate to seek professional help if you encounter any difficulties. Happy driving!