Jump-starting a 2018 Jeep Compass is straightforward. First, you’ll need jumper cables and a working vehicle.
Follow these steps to get your car running again. Car troubles can be stressful, especially when your 2018 Jeep Compass won’t start. If the battery is the issue, a quick jump-start might solve the problem. This process involves connecting your dead battery to a working one.
It’s important to follow the right steps to ensure safety and success. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process. You’ll learn how to jump-start your Jeep Compass with ease. Let’s get your vehicle back on the road quickly and safely.
Credit: www.jeepgarage.org
Required Tools
Jump-starting your 2018 Jeep Compass might sound daunting, but with the right tools, it becomes a straightforward task. Trust me, we’ve all been there. You’re running late, hop into your car, turn the key, and… nothing. Dead battery! Don’t worry; I’ve got your back. Let’s go through the required tools you need to get your Compass back on the road.
Jumper Cables
First things first, you need a good set of jumper cables. These are essential; they’re like the lifeline between your dead battery and a working one. When buying jumper cables, look for ones that are long enough to reach from your Jeep to another vehicle comfortably. Typically, a length of 10 to 20 feet is ideal. Also, check the gauge of the cables; lower numbers mean thicker cables and better current flow. I recommend 4-gauge cables, as they provide a strong connection.
Here’s a quick checklist for choosing jumper cables:
- Length: 10-20 feet
- Gauge: 4 or lower
- Insulated clamps to prevent shocks
- Durable and flexible for easy storage
Working Vehicle
Secondly, you need a working vehicle. This is the car that will provide the necessary juice to jump-start your 2018 Jeep Compass. It’s crucial that this vehicle has a fully charged battery in good condition. It can be any car, really, as long as it’s operational and its battery voltage matches your Jeep’s.
Here’s how you can ensure the working vehicle is suitable:
- Check the battery voltage; it should be 12V.
- Ensure the vehicle is parked close enough for the jumper cables to reach.
- Keep the engine off until you are ready to jump-start.
Remember, the working vehicle is like your Jeep’s savior in this scenario. Without it, you’d be stuck, possibly waiting for roadside assistance. And who has time for that?
In conclusion, having the right tools, such as quality jumper cables and a working vehicle, makes jump-starting your 2018 Jeep Compass a breeze. Stay prepared, and you’ll be ready to tackle any dead battery situation with confidence!
Credit: www.myjeepcompass.com
Preparing The Vehicles
Jumping a 2018 Jeep Compass may seem daunting at first, but with the right preparation, it becomes a straightforward task. The key lies in preparing both vehicles correctly to ensure safety and efficiency. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to get started.
Positioning The Vehicles
The first step in preparing to jump-start your Jeep Compass is positioning the vehicles correctly. This is crucial for a safe and effective jump-start.
- Park the donor vehicle (the one with a good battery) close enough so that the jumper cables can reach both batteries.
- Make sure both vehicles are in park or neutral, and turn off the ignition in both cars.
- Keep the vehicles from touching each other to prevent any electrical current from passing between them outside the cables.
Pro tip: If it’s your first time, ask a friend to help you with the positioning. It’s always easier with an extra pair of eyes and hands.
Turning Off Electronics
Next, you need to turn off all electronics in both vehicles. This step is often overlooked, but it’s essential.
- Turn off any lights, radio, or other electronics in both vehicles. This prevents a power surge that could damage the electrical systems.
- Unplug any devices, such as phone chargers, to avoid potential interference.
- Double-check that both vehicles are completely off to ensure there’s no inadvertent drain on the batteries.
Why is this important? Well, imagine trying to jump-start a car while it’s still trying to power a dozen other devices. It’s like trying to run a marathon while carrying a backpack full of bricks!
By carefully positioning the vehicles and turning off all electronics, you set the stage for a successful jump-start. Stay tuned for the next steps where we’ll cover connecting the jumper cables and starting the vehicles.
Connecting Jumper Cables
So, your 2018 Jeep Compass won’t start, and you need to jump it? No worries! This guide will walk you through the essential steps to connect jumper cables safely and effectively. Let’s dive right in and get your Jeep back on the road in no time!
Attaching To Dead Battery
First, let’s focus on the dead battery—your Jeep’s battery. Follow these steps:
- Find the battery: Open the hood and locate the battery. It usually has two terminals: positive (+) and negative (-).
- Identify the terminals: The positive terminal often has a red cover or a plus sign. The negative terminal may have a black cover or a minus sign.
- Attach the red cable: Connect one end of the red (positive) jumper cable to the positive terminal of your Jeep’s dead battery.
Remember, the red cable always goes to the positive terminal. It’s like a rule of thumb!
Attaching To Live Battery
Now, let’s connect to the live battery, which is in the car that’s helping you. Here’s how:
- Position the cars: Place the two cars close enough so the cables can reach both batteries, but make sure they are not touching.
- Attach the other red cable: Connect the other end of the red (positive) jumper cable to the positive terminal of the helper car’s battery.
- Attach the black cable: Connect one end of the black (negative) jumper cable to the negative terminal of the helper car’s battery.
- Attach the other black cable: Finally, connect the other end of the black (negative) jumper cable to an unpainted metal surface on your Jeep. This could be a bolt or a metal part of the engine block. Do not connect it to the negative terminal of the dead battery.
This last step is crucial for safety. It prevents sparks and potential battery explosions.
And there you have it! Follow these steps to connect the jumper cables, and your 2018 Jeep Compass should be ready to start. Good luck and drive safely!
Credit: www.myjeepcompass.com
Starting The Engine
Jump-starting your 2018 Jeep Compass can seem daunting. But it doesn’t have to be. By following simple steps, you can get back on the road. This guide will help you understand how to start the engine. Let’s begin with the working vehicle and then move to the dead vehicle.
Starting The Working Vehicle
First, park the working vehicle close to the dead one. Ensure the vehicles do not touch. Turn off all electronics in the working vehicle. Open the hood and locate the battery. Attach the red jumper cable to the positive terminal. Connect the other end to the dead battery’s positive terminal. Now, attach the black jumper cable to the working battery’s negative terminal. Connect the other end to an unpainted metal surface on the dead vehicle. This ensures a safe ground connection.
Starting The Dead Vehicle
With cables connected, start the engine of the working vehicle. Let it run for a few minutes. This charges the dead battery. Now, try to start the dead vehicle. If it doesn’t start, wait a bit longer. Once the dead vehicle starts, leave it running. Disconnect the cables in reverse order. Start with the black cable from the dead vehicle. Then remove the black cable from the working vehicle. Now remove the red cable from the dead vehicle. Finally, remove the red cable from the working vehicle. Close the hoods and you’re done.
Removing Jumper Cables
So, your 2018 Jeep Compass just got a jump start and now it’s time to safely remove those jumper cables. You might be thinking, “Isn’t this the easy part?” Well, yes and no. Removing jumper cables incorrectly can be just as dangerous as not knowing how to use them in the first place. Let’s walk through the steps carefully to ensure everything goes smoothly.
Detaching From Live Battery
First, we need to safely detach the cables from the live battery, which is the one providing the power. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide:
- Turn off the Engine: Make sure both vehicles are turned off. This prevents any electrical surges.
- Remove the Negative Cable: Start by removing the black negative (-) cable from the live battery. This minimizes the risk of sparks.
- Remove the Positive Cable: Next, remove the red positive (+) cable. Be careful not to let the clamps touch each other or any metal surfaces.
Doesn’t sound too complicated, does it? Just remember to keep calm and follow the steps methodically.
Detaching From Dead Battery
Now that we’ve safely removed the cables from the live battery, it’s time to detach them from the dead battery on your Jeep Compass. Here’s how:
- Remove the Negative Cable: Just like with the live battery, start by removing the black negative (-) cable first. This is crucial for your safety.
- Remove the Positive Cable: Finally, remove the red positive (+) cable. Again, avoid any contact between the clamps and metal surfaces.
And that’s it! You’ve successfully removed the jumper cables without a hitch. Pretty straightforward, right? Just follow these simple steps and you’ll be a pro in no time.
Remember, safety first! Always make sure to follow these steps carefully to avoid any mishaps. If you’re unsure, it’s always better to ask for help. After all, better safe than sorry!
After Jump-starting
After successfully jump-starting your 2018 Jeep Compass, there are a few important steps to follow. These steps ensure your vehicle continues to run smoothly and prevents future battery issues. Let’s dive into the crucial steps you need to take.
Running The Engine
Keep the engine running for at least 20 minutes. This helps recharge the battery. Drive your Jeep Compass around if possible. The alternator will charge the battery more effectively while driving. Avoid turning off the engine too soon. Turning it off might require another jump-start.
Checking Battery Health
After the engine has run for a while, check the battery’s health. Look for any signs of corrosion on the terminals. Clean them if necessary. Use a battery tester to check the voltage. A healthy battery should read around 12.6 volts. If the reading is low, consider replacing the battery. Visit a professional mechanic if unsure about the battery’s condition. Regular battery checks can prevent unexpected breakdowns.
Frequently Asked Questions
How To Start A Jeep Compass With A Dead Battery?
Jump-start the Jeep Compass using jumper cables. Connect the cables to the dead battery and a working vehicle. Start the working vehicle first, then start the Jeep Compass. Remove cables carefully after the engine starts.
What Are The Two Batteries In The 2018 Jeep Compass?
The 2018 Jeep Compass has two batteries: a primary 12-volt battery and an auxiliary battery for the Start/Stop system.
Why Won’t My 2018 Jeep Compass Start?
Your 2018 Jeep Compass might not start due to a dead battery, faulty starter, or fuel system issues. Check connections and fuses.
How To Connect Jumper Cables To A Jeep?
Connect the red clamp to the positive terminal of the dead battery. Attach the other red clamp to the positive terminal of the live battery. Connect the black clamp to the negative terminal of the live battery. Attach the other black clamp to an unpainted metal surface on the Jeep.
Conclusion
Jumping a 2018 Jeep Compass is easy with the right steps. Always follow safety first. Check connections and ensure cables are secure. Start the donor vehicle, then the Jeep. Let it run for a few minutes. Disconnect cables in reverse order.
Test the Jeep Compass to ensure everything works. Regular maintenance can prevent future issues. Keep this guide handy for quick reference. Happy driving!