Master the Art of Jump Starting Your WRX: A Step-by-Step Guide

The Subaru WRX is a legendary performance car, known for its raw power and exhilarating driving experience. However, even the most powerful machines can fall victim to a dead battery. If you find yourself staring at a lifeless WRX, don’t panic! This guide will walk you through the process of jump-starting your WRX, ensuring you’re back on the road in no time.

Gather Your Tools

Before you dive into the jump-start process, make sure you have the necessary equipment:

• Jumper cables: Invest in a good quality set of jumper cables with heavy-duty clamps.
• A working vehicle: You’ll need another vehicle with a fully charged battery to provide the jump start.
• Safety glasses: Protect your eyes from any potential sparks.
• Gloves: Protect your hands from cold metal surfaces.

Safety First: Essential Precautions

Jump-starting a car involves working with electricity, so it’s crucial to prioritize safety:

• Never connect the jumper cables while the engines of either vehicle are running.
• Ensure the vehicles are parked on a level surface.
• Engage the parking brake on both vehicles.
• Turn off all accessories in both vehicles.
• Avoid touching the battery terminals or clamps while the engines are running.

Connecting the Jumper Cables: The Step-by-Step Guide

1. Positive to Positive: Connect the red (positive) clamp of the jumper cables to the positive (+) terminal of the dead battery in your WRX.
2. Positive to Positive (Donor Car): Connect the other red (positive) clamp to the positive (+) terminal of the working battery in the donor vehicle.
3. Negative to Negative (Donor Car): Connect the black (negative) clamp of the jumper cables to the negative (-) terminal of the working battery in the donor vehicle.
4. Negative to Ground (WRX): Connect the final black (negative) clamp to a solid, unpainted metal ground point on the WRX’s chassis. Avoid connecting it directly to the battery’s negative terminal.

Starting the Engines: The Final Steps

1. Start the Donor Vehicle: Start the donor vehicle and let it idle for a few minutes. This ensures a stable electrical flow.
2. Attempt to Start the WRX: Try starting the WRX. If it doesn’t start immediately, let the donor vehicle run for a few more minutes before trying again.
3. Disconnect Safely: Once the WRX starts, let it idle for a few minutes to ensure the battery is charging. Then, disconnect the jumper cables in reverse order, starting with the negative clamps.

Troubleshooting the Jump Start

If your WRX still won’t start after a successful jump start, there might be an underlying issue:

• Dead Battery: Even after a jump start, the battery might be too weak to hold a charge. Consider replacing the battery.
• Starter Motor Problem: A faulty starter motor can prevent the engine from turning over.
• Fuel System Issues: A clogged fuel filter or a problem with the fuel pump can hinder the engine’s ability to start.

Maintaining Your WRX Battery: Prolonging Its Lifespan

• Regular Charging: If your WRX sits idle for extended periods, charge the battery with a battery charger.
• Clean Battery Terminals: Corrosion on the battery terminals can hinder electrical flow. Clean them regularly with a wire brush and baking soda solution.
• Avoid Deep Discharges: Allowing the battery to completely discharge can shorten its lifespan.

Final Thoughts: Back on the Road

Jump-starting your WRX is a relatively simple process, but it’s essential to follow the steps carefully and prioritize safety. By understanding the basics and taking necessary precautions, you can confidently get your WRX back on the road and experience the thrill of driving this legendary performance car.

Information You Need to Know

1. How long should I let the donor vehicle run before trying to start the WRX?

It’s recommended to let the donor vehicle run for at least 5 minutes to ensure a stable electrical flow before attempting to start the WRX.

2. Can I jump start my WRX with a motorcycle?

While it’s possible to jump start a car with a motorcycle, it’s not recommended. Motorcycles have smaller batteries and might not provide enough power to jump start a car.

3. What should I do if my WRX’s battery keeps dying?

If your WRX’s battery keeps dying, even after a jump start, it’s likely a sign of a faulty battery or an electrical issue in the vehicle. It’s best to take it to a mechanic for diagnosis and repair.

4. Is it safe to leave the jumper cables connected while the engines are running?

Absolutely not! Leaving the jumper cables connected while the engines are running can create a dangerous electrical situation, potentially leading to sparks, fire, or damage to the vehicles.

5. How often should I check the battery terminals for corrosion?

It’s a good practice to check the battery terminals for corrosion at least once a month, especially if you live in a humid environment.