using another car to charge a dead battery can be harmful to the alternator in the charging vehicle.it is recommended you use a battery charger instead.unless you know how to use a voltmeter you should go to a shop and have an avr test done.this will test your battery,starter and alternator.typically,car running,the voltage at the battery,if the alternator is putting out,should be anywhere from 13.2-14.5 volts.anything less and it is an alternator problem.there is also a test for the battery called a 3 minute charge test.when charging the battery at 40amps the voltage shouldnt go over 16.9 volts.if it does its the battery at fault.bottom line tho is if any of this doesnt make sense to you,take it to a shop.just so you know,ive been an automotive mechanic for almost 35 years.cheers.