These instructions apply to the Honda Accord Mk8 (CP/CS) 2008-2012.
For other models, please choose your vehicle here.
The Accord’s 12V battery is in the engine compartment, so jump-starting is easy to reach. The Honda-specific point: the final negative lead connects to a metal engine ground, not to the dead battery’s negative post.
This is the North American Accord. For the European Accord (CU/CW, 2008–2015) see the European guide.
How to jump-start a Honda Accord (2008–2012)
- Open the hood and check the battery. Do not jump-start a frozen or damaged battery.
- Turn off all accessories, put the transmission in Park (automatic) or neutral (manual), and set the parking brake on both cars.
- Connect the red (+) cable to the dead battery’s positive terminal, then its other end to the booster’s positive terminal.
- Connect the black (−) cable to the booster’s negative terminal, then its other end to a bare engine ground on the Accord — the engine mounting bolt (automatic) or transmission mounting bolt (manual) — not the dead battery’s negative post.
- Start the booster car and run it at a fast idle, then start the Accord.
- Remove the cables in reverse: negative from the Accord first, then the booster; then positive from the Accord, then the booster.
Keep the clamp ends apart and clear of metal until everything is off, or you can cause a short. Drive for 20–30 minutes afterward so the alternator can recharge the battery.
Grounding to the engine rather than the battery keeps any spark away from the hydrogen gas a charging battery gives off. Repeated jump-starts mean the battery or charging system needs testing.
Frequently asked questions
Where does the negative cable go?
To a clean engine ground — the engine mounting bolt on automatics or the transmission mounting bolt on manuals — not the flat battery’s negative terminal.
Do I lose the radio code jump-starting?
No. The battery stays connected during a jump-start, so the radio code, clock and presets are kept. They are only lost if you disconnect the battery.
It still won’t crank — now what?
Check the clamps for clean metal-to-metal contact and let the donor car run a few minutes first. If it still won’t turn over, the battery may be too flat or the starter needs checking.
Independent guide — not affiliated with Honda. Always follow your official service manual and safety precautions. Read our full disclaimer.