When you have a dead battery, knowing how to properly use jumper cables will get you and your car going again in no time. But the most important first step is keeping a quality set of jumper cables in your car or truck. Once you get them connected, using jumper cables to jump-start your car should be a cinch. Keys to using jumper cables Keep a good set of jumper cables (also known as booster cables) in your car, with good insulation and clean connections.Connect the positive and negative clips in the correct order.Run the freshly started car for a while to recharge the battery.