Why do the jumper cables get so hot?

Question

I have been told that my battery is dead and I need a new one.
However My car started perfectly the day before. Then next day ,when I turned the key nothing happened, no clicking no attempt to turn the engine over, the radio would not play.
I measured the battery's voltage, it was 10.5.
When I try to jump start car it wont start, it won't even click or try to move the engine. The clamps on the jumper cables got so hot it almost hurt to touch them.
My theory is there is a short circuit somewhere that would immediately drain all the electricity from a new battery.

? · Accepted Answer

sounds like cheap jumper cables and a bad battery

Mom of 4 boys and twins · Answer

It sounds like you are in same boat as alot of us and the cost of even a new battery would take a big hit so you are trying to absolutely make sure it is battery before you spend the cash. That being the case try cleaning your connectors, brushing them with a wire brush, make sure there is no loose connections and no sign of battery acid leaking anywhere. I turn off the setting for my interior lights before I get out of my car so that there is no chance I have anything draining my battery (in case a door doesnt get closed all the way, etc.) Most shops will test your battery and alternator for free before you buy.

mdk68gto, ase certified m tech · Answer

the cables get hot since they are carrying a large amount of current to crank the the engine over. the starter is the single largest load on any battery in any car. you could look for heavier gage cables.

Joe · Answer

My theory is you have some cheap jumper cables. You also should have your battery checked under a load. Any reputable auto parts store will do that for you free.

Humveetech · Answer

Could be a bad starter.  If you try to jump start it & not even the starter tries to spin.  I would look there first

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Why do the jumper cables get so hot?

5 Answers