If and when371
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTe c h n i c a l  D a t a
Starting assistance
Introduction
If the engine fails to start because of a discharged battery, the battery of 
another vehicle can be used to start the engine. Before starting, check the 
magic eye on the battery  Ÿpage 318.
For starting assistance, jump lead cables conforming to the standard DIN 
72553 are required (see the cable manufacturer instructions). The jump lead 
cable must be at least 25 mm
2 in section (0.038 inches2) for petrol engines, 
and 35 mm2 (0.054 inches2) for diesel engines.
For vehicles whose battery is not in the engine compartment, the jump leads 
should only be connected to the starting assistance connection points in the 
engine compartment.
Additional information and warnings:
 xStarter assist systems (Start-Stop function)  Ÿpage 221
 xWorking in the engine compartment  Ÿpage 304
 xSelective Catalytic Reduction (AdBlue)  Ÿpage 300
 xVehicle battery  Ÿpage 318
WARNING
Incorrect use of jump leads and incorrectly jump starting could cause the 
battery to explode resulting in serious injury. Please observe the following 
rules to minimise the risk of a battery explosion:
 xAll work involving the vehicle battery and electrical system can cause 
corrosion, fire and serious electric shocks. Always read and take into 
account the safety warnings and standards before beginning work on the 
battery  Ÿpage 318, “Vehicle battery”.
 xThe battery providing current must have the same voltage (12V) and 
approximately the same capacity (see markings on battery) as the flat 
battery.
 xNever charge a frozen or recently thawed battery. A flat battery can 
freeze at temperatures around 0°C (+32 °F).
 xIf a battery is frozen and/or has been frozen then it must be replaced.
 xA highly explosive mixture of gases is released when the battery is 
being charged. Always keep lit cigarettes, open flames, sparks and fire far 
from the battery. Never use a mobile telephone when connecting and 
removing the jump leads.
 xCharge the battery only in well ventilated areas given that when the 
battery is charged by outside assistance, it creates a mix of highly explo-
sive gases.
 xJump leads should never enter into contact with moving parts in the 
engine compartment.
 xNever switch the positive and negative poles or connect the jump leads 
incorrectly.
 xNote the instructions provided by the manufacturer of the jump leads.
Caution
To avoid considerable damage to the vehicle electrical system, note the 
following carefully:
 xIf the jump leads are incorrectly connected, this could result in a short 
circuit.
 xThe vehicles must not touch each other, otherwise electricity could flow as 
soon as the positive terminals are connected.
WARNING (continued)