If your lights are dim or the car only clicks, the battery is the most common cause, and a safe jump-start may get you going. If the engine cranks but will not start, or a jump does not help, the car probably needs a tow and a diagnosis. Call O’Hara & Sons Towing at (267) 377-3246, open 24/7, for roadside assistance or a tow.
What are the signs, and what do they usually mean?
| What you notice | What it often points to |
|---|---|
| Nothing happens, dashboard lights dim or off | A weak or dead battery, or loose or corroded battery connections |
| Rapid clicking when you turn the key or press start | A weak battery, or sometimes the starter |
| Engine cranks slowly | A weak battery or cold weather |
| Engine cranks normally but does not start | A fuel, spark or sensor problem; a jump will not help |
| Warning light about the key or security system | A key fob or anti-theft issue; check your owner’s manual |
| You smell fuel or see smoke | Stop. Get away from the car and call 911 |
These are general signs, not a diagnosis. A shop has to test the car.
How do I jump-start a car safely?
Read your owner’s manual first, because some cars have special jump points and some hybrids and EVs have different rules. The common sequence is:
- Park the helper car close but not touching. Turn both off, set both parking brakes.
- Connect one red clamp to the positive (+) terminal of the dead battery.
- Connect the other red clamp to the positive (+) terminal of the good battery.
- Connect one black clamp to the negative (−) terminal of the good battery.
- Connect the other black clamp to bare, unpainted metal on the dead car, away from the battery.
- Start the helper car and let it run for a few minutes, then try the dead car.
- When it starts, remove the clamps in reverse order, without letting them touch.
- Keep the engine running and drive for a while so the battery recharges.
Do not try a jump if the battery is cracked, leaking, bulging or frozen. Keep flames and sparks away from the battery.
When do I need a tow instead?
- The engine cranks but will not start.
- It starts with a jump but dies again soon after, or will not restart.
- You see leaking fluid, smoke, or a burning smell.
- The battery is damaged, or you are not comfortable doing a jump.
- You are in an unsafe spot, such as a highway shoulder.
- A warning light suggests the car is not safe to drive.
Tell dispatch what you tried. See what to tell a tow truck dispatcher. A flatbed is a common choice for a car that will not start.
What can I do after a jump?
A jump that works once does not mean the battery or charging system is fine. Have the battery and charging system tested. Our sister company, O’Hara and Sons Automotive, lists batteries and electrical and check-engine diagnostics service on weekdays. You can use any shop you like.
Sources and notes
- Kia owner’s manual, jump-starting: https://ownersmanual.kia.com/full_webhelp/KA4/2026/en_US/topics/chapter7_4_1.html
- Mazda owner’s manual, dead battery: https://www.mazdausa.com/static/manuals/2024/cx-5/contents/08030100.html
- Consumer Reports, how to jump-start a car: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-batteries/jump-start-car-with-dead-battery-a1028630350/
- AAA South Jersey, battery safety: https://southjersey.aaa.com/digital-publication/battery-safety-protecting-yourself-and-your-car
- General information only. Your owner’s manual comes first. Last checked: October 24, 2026.
GOOD QUESTIONS.STRAIGHT ANSWERS.
Can O’Hara & Sons Towing jump-start my car?
Our roadside assistance lists jump-starts, along with lockouts, fuel delivery and tire changes. See roadside assistance or call (267) 377-3246.
How long should I drive after a jump-start?
Your owner’s manual or a shop can tell you what is right for your car. The point is to give the charging system time to recharge the battery. If the car will not restart afterward, get it tested.
Why does my car click but not start?
Often the battery is too weak to turn the starter. It can also be corroded battery connections or the starter itself. A test finds out.
Is it safe to jump an electric or hybrid car?
Follow the manual. Many vehicles have specific instructions, and some are different from a conventional car. If you are not sure, call for help.
What if it is freezing outside?
Cold makes weak batteries worse. Do not try to jump a frozen battery. Call for help.
Stuck with a car that won’t start?
Call O’Hara & Sons Towing at (267) 377-3246, open 24/7. Roadside assistance · Emergency towing · Contact
