Jump Start – Wires Crossed

Q: My car had a bad jumpstart with wires being crossed. Now the instrument panel gauges, the power windows, and air conditioning do not work. What is the problem?

A: When the wires were crossed, the polarity (flow of electrical current) was reversed. Reversing the polarity in the electrical system can cause serious damage. Check the fuses, circuit breakers, and fusible links in the electrical circuits that have the problem. After that, the components may have fried. Your best bet is to take the vehicle to a shop that specializes in auto electric repairs.