2007 Saab 9-3 Owner's Manual - Page 198

198 Starting and driving NOTICE WARNING NOTICE If the other system is not a 12-volt system with a negative ground, both vehicles can be damaged. 2 Get the vehicles close enough so the jumper cables can reach, but be sure the vehicles are not touching each other. If a poor connection on the negative jumper cable should exist, it is possible for damage to be caused to electrical systems/components of either vehicle should inadvertent contact be made. You would not be able to start your car and bad grounding could damage the electrical systems. Jump starting • When working on the battery, highly explosive gas can build up. A spark could ignite this gas that collects around the battery. Therefore, always avoid sparks and open flames in the vicinity of the battery. • The battery contains corrosive sulphuric acid. Always wear a face mask or goggles when working on the battery. • If battery acid gets into the eyes or splashes onto skin or clothing, wash the affected area liberally with water. If acid gets into the eyes or a large quantity makes contact with the skin, seek medical help. Ignoring these steps could result in costly damage to your vehicle that would not be covered by your warranty. Trying to start your car by pushing or pulling it could damage your vehicle, even if you have a manual transmission. If you have an automatic transmission, your vehicle cannot be started by pushing or pulling it. It is essential when a donor battery is to be used to jump start the car that the jump leads be connected correctly to prevent arcing. To jump start your vehicle: 1 Check the other vehicle. It must have a 12-volt battery with a negative ground system. WARNING You could be injured if the vehicles roll. Set the parking brake firmly on each vehicle. Put an automatic transmission in P (Park) or a manual transmission in Neutral. 3 Turn off the ignition on both vehicles. Turn off lights that are not needed, and radios. This will avoid sparks and help save both batteries and it could save your radio.