If you hook a battery incorrectly, what's the damage?
 

This is for a 98 Corolla my apologies for posting it here.


My friend was trying to jump start a 98 Corolla. Accidentally he connected the terminals the wrong way. He left the car connected in the reverse order for about 20 minutes. Now, the car does start but does not charge the battery, can't be put in Drive, the dash lights, the stereo, DRLs all don't work. He replaced all the fuses which enabled him to start the car but he still can't move it. What damage is done and can that be fixed at home?

Thanks

Re: If you hook a battery incorrectly, what's the damage?
 

He might have killed his computer.

Actually he probably killed the alternator and the battery. My friend did the same thing once. Also he should check all his fuses.

He told me he replaced the battery and about 5 fuses (all that are mentioned in the book they give with the car) that enabled him to start the car. He was mentioning that the battery is not getting charged so that's the alternator. What else could be wrong?? If the car starts and idles would the computer be kaput? I hope not. Any other ideas? (Except taking it to the dealer)

There are fuses in the car for reasons like this, he should be alright once busted fuses and alternator are replaced. If not then seek the help of a professional

fusible links?
 

Did he check the fusible links commonly in the engine compartment?

Re: fusible links?
 

Are they different than the fuses themselves? He checked and replaced all the fuses in the engine compartment. Apparantly there are about 5 or so. He says that others are square boxes (I am assuming those are relays) and he hasn't checked those. But what are fusable links and how to check 'em?