HOW TO JUMP START YOUR CAR

Having a car battery failing or completely dead is a situation that has probably happened to you before. You park your car for a while and when you get back in to turn the ignition nothing happens. Maybe you hear a few clicks but the car does not start. That means you have a flat/dead battery and the best way to get you back on the road as fast as possible is to get another car battery to jump start your car. 

To jump start a car safely you need to follow these basics steps;

1. Ensure you have jumper cables that are safe for use.

2. Get a functioning car to help you with the jump start.

3. Park the functioning car so that the two vehicles are facing each other at a distance of 18 inches apart.

4. Ensure both vehicles are in park gear position with engines turned off and keys removed.

5. Attach the red clip which is the positive clip to the positive (+ve) end of your battery.

6. Also attach the other end of the red clip to the positive (+ve) end of the functioning battery.

7. Now attach the black clip which is the negative clip to the negative (-ve) end of the functioning battery.

8. Take the other end of the black clip and clamp it on any unpainted part of your vehicle (preferably any bolt that is not painted).

9. Now start the functioning vehicle and let it run for a few minutes (5 minutes).

10. Then start your car, if it did not start wait a few more minutes and then try it again.

11. If the dead car is running, disconnect all the cables and let the car run for about 20 minutes.

12. You can now drive your car to your destination, but keep in mind that you need to visit an auto-shop to examine the performance of your car battery.

We hope the above steps have enlightened you on the process of jump starting a vehicle easily. 

Drive safely and always take note of all signals displayed on your car dashboard to avoid car trouble or disappointments. 

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TIPS FOR A SMOOTH EASTER ROAD TRIP

The holidays are our favourite times for visits and family get-together. However, whether you are heading to your home-town, family-house, or a choice vacation spot to celebrate the holidays with family or friends, or if your holiday destination is a short distance or across the country, it is very important to guarantee a smooth drive for you and your family to arrive at your destination safely and without incident. 

Here are some tips to ensure that your car and your family are prepared for the holiday adventure.  

SCHEDULE A CHECKUP. Perform basic maintenance on your vehicle before you head out such as checking wipers and fluid levels. Also, schedule any necessary service such as oil changes or tune ups. If maintenance is not up to date, have your car and tires inspected before you take a long drive. A vehicle in top shape will have a better chance of staying reliable and efficient.

STAY CHARGED. Check your battery to make sure it’s strong and has clean terminals. The holiday trip is no fun if your car won’t start.

READ THE RUBBER. Inspect your tyres for any tears or bulges in the side wall. The tyres should have a good amount of tread left. Make sure the tyre pressures are set to the figures that are printed on the placard on the driver’s door jam, or what’s listed in your car’s owner’s manual.

GIVE IT A BREAK. Have your service station inspect your car’s brake pads to make sure they aren’t worn or need replacing.

BE PREPARED. Bring supplies in the event of an accident or medical issue. Stock your car with an emergency kit—especially a flashlight, blanket, first-aid kit, and some basic tools. Also, bring water and extra snacks, just in case.

PACK SMART. Check your vehicle’s load capacity to make sure you aren’t putting too much weight in the car. On most new cars, the total weight you can carry is printed on the door placard inside the driver’s door jam. This load rating includes all the passengers and cargo. Be aware that fuel economy is reduced with extra cargo. Roof-top cargo boxes should only be filled with light bulky items. Heavy loads on the roof can make the vehicle more difficult to handle in emergency situations and increase the risk of a roll over. Keep anything of value in the boot or covered storage area.

KID PREP. If you’re driving with kids, make sure you pack enough snacks, water, games, videos, and music to keep them comfortable and occupied during your journey. Remind your children, not to talk to strangers. Go with them on bathroom breaks and give them whistles to be used only if the family gets separated.

BE PATIENT & BE SAFE. During the holiday travel times expect to hit traffic. It may make sense to drive early in the morning to avoid the rush and ensure you get to your destination on time and with minimal stress. Make sure you count on stops for refreshment and restroom breaks. Ensure you are driving safely and obeying the rules of the road.

AVOID TRAFFIC GRID. Map your route in advance and be prepared for busy roads during this holiday. If possible consider leaving earlier or later to avoid heavy traffic.

With these little preparation ideas, you can leave the road-trip stress at home and enjoy your holiday with family and friends. Have a safe journey and wonderful holiday. 

Follow us on our twitter handle - @con_hallmark 

& facebook page - conhallmark

Visit our website for our tailor-made insurance covers at www.consolidatedhallmark.com

Sources:

http://exchange.aaa.com/automobiles-travel/automobiles/holiday-road-trip-travel-tips/#.VvOgg-IrKM8

http://www.independenttraveler.com/travel-tips/none/10-tips-for-holiday-travel

http://www.iol.co.za/travel/travel-tips/travel-tips-for-easter-weekend-1999507

http://www.travelchannel.com/interests/travel-tips/articles/top-10-survival-tips-for-holiday-travel