How to Jump Start a Chevrolet Equinox

1. Check that the other vehicle has a 12-volt battery with a negative ground system, and park the two vehicles so they do not touch.
2. Set the parking brake, turn the vehicle off, and turn off all lights and accessories in both vehicles except hazard flashers if needed.
3. Check that the jumper cables have no loose or missing insulation.
4. Connect one end of the red positive (+) cable to the discharged battery positive (+) terminal, then the other end to the good battery positive (+) terminal.
5. Connect one end of the black negative (–) cable to the good battery negative (–) terminal.
6. Connect the other end of the black negative (–) cable to the discharged battery negative (–) grounding point.
7. Start the engine of the vehicle with the good battery and run it at idle speed for at least four minutes.
8. Try to start the vehicle with the dead battery; to remove the cables, reverse Steps 6–9 in exact order.

• The discharged battery positive (+) terminal is under a trim cover on the driver side; open the cover to expose it.
• If the vehicle will not start after a few tries, it probably needs service.
• After starting and removing the cables, let the vehicle idle for several minutes.

Source: 2026 Chevrolet Equinox owner's manual, PDF pages 267, 268. Steps are summarized in our own words (AI-assisted, checked against the cited pages 2026-10-18). Other model years can differ; your manual has the final word.