Jumper cables incorrectly used

Tiny
EANIMAL
  • MEMBER
  • 2003 VOLKSWAGEN JETTA
  • 1.8L
  • 4 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 165,000 MILES
Hi, I read through the post regarding the Jeep that was jumped incorrectly. But, I was wondering if you could give me the specifics on potential damage to my car? The cables were only on for about twenty seconds and when they were corrected, the car started immediately. I tested lights, blinkers, air, which were all working, but the radio is not working.

I am going to take it to my mechanic, but I would like to know what he should be testing and looking at. I am assuming fuses, but could the alternator potentially be damaged? What other damage could be lurking beneath the surface? As well, is there a fix for the radio beyond replacing the entire thing?

While that issue is result of utter stupidity, the battery was run down because there is a fan in the motor that is not shutting down even when the car is off. Can you speculate what that could be and how much it will cost to fix?

Thanks very much for your help.
Sunday, December 9th, 2018 AT 2:27 PM

3 Replies

Tiny
DANNY L
  • MECHANIC
  • 5,648 POSTS
Hello, I am Danny.

Most cars have a fusible link to prevent serious damage to the cars electric system when something like that happens. It burns out and requires replacement. However in your case it sounds like yours did not because you were able to start your car. If a fusible link that burns out it would prevent car from starting. As far as having your cars fan and radio repaired most local repair shops are charging $100.00 an hour labor plus parts. Specialty shops and dealerships charge more. I have attached a tutorial that shows how a electrical system works.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-a-car-electrical-system-works

Hope this helps and thanks for using 2CarPros.
Danny-
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Sunday, December 9th, 2018 AT 5:32 PM
Tiny
EANIMAL
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Hi Danny,
Thanks so much for your response. It has eased my mind a great deal to know that my car is not fried.
Erin
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Sunday, December 9th, 2018 AT 6:46 PM
Tiny
DANNY L
  • MECHANIC
  • 5,648 POSTS
Hello Erin,

You are welcome. Thanks again for using 2CarPros and feel free to use us again.
Danny-
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Sunday, December 9th, 2018 AT 10:46 PM

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