I have an old 1997 Ford Escort which was left without use for 3 months. Unfortunately the battery cable wasn't disconnected and the car won't start. I jump started it and drove it for 15 minutes, but that didn't charge the battery enough to start it again on itself. The battery is 3 years old, but didn't see much use.
Do I need a new battery or it just needs more charging, either by driving or by using a charger?
Yes, you need a new battery. Lead acid batteries that sat outside for 3 years without use are probably not going to perform the best.
You could try a charging with a charger for a few hours but a new battery may be needed. Don't charge it by driving, it will overwork the alternator.
The car was being used for most of the time during those 3 years. But nobody used the car at all for the last 3 months. Do you think the battery is bad already?
3 months are enough to kill a battery?
maybe, maybe not. how long did you try to charge it?
trickle charge the battery at like 2 amps and get it tested somewhere. Any parts store should test for free. And actually a lot of stores will charge it for free too
You might be able to save it.
Let it trickle charge overnight.
I drove it for 15 minutes. I don't have a charger, I would have to buy one to try that or I could jump start it again and drive it for a longer time.
dont its hard on the alt.
just buy a charger m8, its something you should own anyways.