Jump Starters: Your Ultimate Guide

Jump starters are indispensable tools for any vehicle owner, providing a critical solution in the event of a dead battery. Compact and powerful, these devices ensure you can get your car running quickly without the need for another vehicle's assistance.

Learn everything you need to know about portable jump starters below, including what they are, how you should use them and how to pick the best jump starter for your situation.

What Is a Jump Starter?

A jump starter is essentially a portable battery device designed to start a vehicle when the car battery fails. By delivering a burst of power directly to the engine's starter, this handy gadget bypasses the need for a functional vehicle battery. Modern versions of these devices are compact enough to store easily in your car, ensuring you're prepared for unexpected battery issues. You can learn more about the different types available by visiting our detailed guide on car power accessories and battery care. With a jump starter, drivers gain peace of mind, knowing they can handle a dead battery promptly without needing another vehicle for a boost.

How Do You Use a Jump Starter?

To use a jump starter, first ensure the device is fully charged. Connect the jump starter's clamps to the appropriate battery terminals, usually marked positive (+) and negative (-). Once securely connected, activate the jump starter to transfer power to your car's battery. After the engine starts, disconnect the jump starter and allow your car's engine to run, which helps recharge the battery. Regular use and familiarity with your jump starter will enhance confidence in managing these situations independently.

Are Portable Jump Starters Worth It?

Portable jump starters offer significant advantages, particularly their convenience and effectiveness in emergencies. Unlike traditional jumper cables that require a second vehicle, these standalone units provide a quick solution anywhere. Many models also feature additional functionalities such as charging ports for electronic devices and emergency lights. Investing in a portable jump starter ensures you're never stranded due to a flat battery, whether during city commutes or rural adventures. Their reliability and utility make them a valuable addition to any vehicle's emergency kit.

Shop Jump Starters at Jaycar

Jump starters are available at various retail locations, but for a comprehensive selection tailored to Australian drivers, consider browsing Jaycar's extensive range. Our stores stock various models suited for cars, motorbikes, and even larger vehicles. Each product page provides detailed specifications and customer reviews to help you make an informed choice. For convenience, visit our car power accessories and battery care section to compare features and prices of different jump starters. By choosing Jaycar, you benefit from expert advice and quality products that meet rigorous safety standards.

Jump Starter FAQs

Receive answers to common questions about jump starters. Learn everything you need to know about car jump starters!

How Do I Select the Right Jump Starter?

When selecting a jump starter you need to make sure it has a voltage suitable for your vehicle's battery. Car and motorcycle batteries tend to be 12V, while large trucks and motorboats tend to be fitted with 24V batteries. Jaycar's 12/24V Jump Starter covers both bases, comes in its own carry case and can even charge smartphones, tablets & GPS navigators via the USB port!

What is Cranking Current?

The “cranking current” is how much power you need the jump starter to apply to your vehicle's battery in order to get its motor to turn over. As an example, Jaycar's Pocket Size Jump Starter has a cranking current of 300A which will work on a 6-cylinder petrol engine/4-cylinder diesel engine. That's definitely ample for a Toyota Corolla or Mazda CX-5 for instance, but not for a Ford Ranger Diesel. Large 4x4s and trucks - especially diesel - would likely need a cranking current of 400+. Refer to your vehicle's engine specifications to work out what cranking current you need. If you're not sure, our staff are happy to provide advice.

What Jump Starter Battery Should I Use?

The batteries included in your Jump Starter can include Lithium-ion (Li-ion), LiFePo4, SLA and Li-Po batteries. Whilst it's probably not a key deciding factor, the battery type will impact the size of the jump starter, length of time between charges and how well it copes with charging and operating other things. Jaycar also sell a jump starter that doesn't have any battery at all. A capacitor based 12V jump starter uses a super capacitor to store energy. This technology means it stores energy perpetually - just charge it once then store away until needed.

What are Jump Starters with a LiFePO4 Battery?

LiFePO4 (Lithium iron phosphate) batteries are becoming more common because of their efficiency. The ions are smaller and coated, enabling them to move faster than the ions of other Lithium batteries. They also don't break down with repeated use, making them longer lasting. Consequently, a jump starter which uses a LiFePO4 battery will be more efficient than one that uses a Li-ion or Li-Po battery. You'll get similar outputs but they'll differ on battery life expectancy and recharging requirements. SLA (sealed lead acid) batteries are what you probably think of when you first think of batteries. As an older technology they're more cost effective than LiFe-PO4 batteries but they're also a lot bigger! More traditional Li-Po / Li-ion batteries are much lighter and more compact than SLA, so they're also a great alternative. When selecting a jump starter, consider how much you're willing to invest in the technology, how portable you want your jump starter to be (glove box vs. boot), and how often you expect to use the battery jump starter.

What are Amp Hours?

This measurement indicates the volume of charge the jump starter's battery can hold - the larger the volume the less it needs recharging to provide multiple jumps starts. However, recharging after use is recommended to ensure long-life of the internal battery in the unit. It also helps determine how long auxiliary features (lights / charging etc) will run before recharging is required. Most jump starters will display the internal battery level for your information too.

What Additional Features Can Jump Starters Have?

Most of Jaycar's jump starters do more than just jump start your vehicle, so you're really getting bang for your buck! The 12V 700A Jump Starter provides 12/16/19V, 3.5A to run a laptop. It also provides a 3.0A USB Type-C outlet, and a 2.4A USB outlet. That covers a large majority of portable devices, including the car! It also features an integrated torch and warning strobe. Always keep in mind that the primary reason for having the jump starter is to jump start your vehicle so make sure you keep an eye on the amount of charge left as you never know...

Are Portable Jump Starters Safe?

Yes, portable jump starters are designed with built-in safety features to prevent common hazards like overcharging, short circuits, and reverse polarity. These safeguards ensure safe operation, even for those unfamiliar with automotive maintenance. Regular maintenance and following the manufacturer's instructions further enhance safety.

Can a Jump Starter Charge a Battery?

A jump starter is primarily designed to help start an engine, not to charge a battery fully. It provides a temporary power boost sufficient to start a vehicle. For a complete recharge, the vehicle's alternator will take over once the engine is running, or an external charger may be used.

Can I Take a Jump Starter on a Plane?

Transportation of jump starters on airplanes is subject to airline regulations and battery capacity limits, typically under 100 watt-hours (Wh). It's advisable to check with the airline before traveling, as policies can vary. Generally, they must be carried in hand luggage with protective measures against short circuits.

Can You Use Two Jump Starters at Once?

Using two jump starters simultaneously is not recommended. Doing so could exceed the electrical tolerance of your vehicle’s battery or electrical system, potentially leading to damage. Always use a single, adequately rated jump starter for your vehicle.

Can You Use a Jump-Starter While Plugged In?

We recommend to always refer to the specific instructions provided by the manufacturer to ensure compatibility and safety if you are wanting to use a jump starter while plugged in.

Does a 6 Volt Jump Starter Exist?

While less common, 6-volt jump starters are available, catering primarily to vehicles with 6-volt electrical systems, such as classic cars. These specialised units are designed to meet the unique needs of maintaining older or vintage vehicles.

Do Jump Starters Come Charged?

Most jump starters arrive partially charged and ready for immediate use. However, it is advisable to fully charge your new jump starter before first use to ensure optimal performance and battery lifespan.

How Long Does a Jump Starter Last?

The lifespan of a jump starter depends on its battery type and how frequently it's used. With proper care and occasional use, a jump starter can last several years. Regular charging and storage in a cool, dry place can help maximize its lifespan.

Why Do Batteries Go Flat?

Batteries have a limited lifespan. They tend to last between 3-5 years, depending on the make of the battery and the driving conditions it's been subjected to. Short distance driving - especially at low speeds - is terrible for batteries as they don't get a chance to fully recharge. It's also not uncommon for us to plug in devices such as mobile phones, car event recorders & GPS navigators, which all draw extra power from the battery. It's not a problem when the car is running, but can be when the engine is switched off! New cars do tend to alert drivers when electronics are left on - such as headlights - but they also tend to include lots of power-hungry features like heated seats, climate-controlled air conditioning and headrest monitors. Put simply, one day your battery is bound to go flat.

How Can I Fix a Flat Battery?

If your battery is flat it will need to be recharged or replaced. You'll be able to tell if it needs to be replaced when you try to jump start it. Jump starting is when a secondary power source applies just enough charge to the electrical system in order to start the motor. Once you jump start the battery, you'll want to drive around for a while to replenish the charge. It should recharge itself fairly quickly. If you simply ran-flat because you left the headlights on, or some other similar incident, the battery should have no problems starting your car next time. If, after running your engine for at least 10-minutes, the battery won't start the car by itself and you need jump starting every time, we're sorry to say that it likely needs replacing.