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Cold weather puts extra strain on car batteries, making winter the peak season for breakdowns in Austria. Even electric vehicles (EVs) aren’t immune, as their 12-volt batteries can fail in freezing conditions. Experts warn that improper jump-starting—especially for EVs—can lead to serious risks, from battery damage to personal injury.
The ÖAMTC has issued clear guidelines for safely reviving a dead battery, whether in a traditional or electric vehicle. Their advice stresses caution, proper tools, and following manufacturer instructions to avoid costly mistakes.
In Austria, winter breakdowns often stem from weakened batteries struggling under the extra load of lights, heating, and windshield wipers. For traditional cars, jump-starting with another vehicle is common, but the process must be done carefully. The ÖAMTC advises connecting the red cable to the dead battery’s positive (+) terminal first, then to the donor battery’s positive (+). The black cable should go to the donor’s negative (–) terminal, with the other end attached to an unpainted metal part of the stalled car—never directly to the dead battery’s negative terminal, due to explosion risks from hydrogen gas.
Once connected, the donor vehicle’s engine should start first, followed by the stalled one. Keeping the connection for about 30 seconds helps protect sensitive electronics. After a successful jump-start, drivers should take a longer trip—at least an hour outside urban areas—to fully recharge the battery, provided it’s still in good condition. Electric vehicles introduce extra complexity. The ÖAMTC strongly advises *against* jump-starting an EV using another car’s 12-volt battery. Instead, owners should call roadside assistance or a qualified technician. The high-voltage system must be deactivated, and only manufacturer-approved tools or portable jump-starters designed for the specific EV should be used. Connecting jumper cables to the high-voltage battery or improvising procedures can cause severe damage or injury. That said, EVs *can* act as donor vehicles for jump-starting other cars, but only if the manufacturer’s instructions are followed. Portable jump-starters remain the safest and most convenient option, particularly for EVs. Regardless of the method, matching voltage (usually 12 volts) and switching off all electrical loads in the donor vehicle are critical steps to prevent hazards.
Winter conditions in Austria continue to test car batteries, with EVs facing unique challenges. Safe jump-starting relies on correct cable connections, proper tools, and adherence to manufacturer guidelines—especially for electric vehicles. Ignoring these steps risks damage to the vehicle or even personal harm, making professional assistance the best choice for uncertain situations.
