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The Costco Type S 1000A Portable Battery Car Jump Starter delivers reliable, high-power performance in a compact, user-friendly design, making it a top choice for emergency roadside assistance. With 1000 peak amps, it easily jumps gas engines up to 6.0L and diesel up to 4.0L, plus includes built-in safety protections and a handy LED flashlight for added versatility. A smart investment for any driver, it doubles as a power bank for phones and devices—perfect for on-the-go peace of mind.
Key Takeaways
- Jump-starts reliably: 1000A power handles most vehicles, including trucks and SUVs.
- Portable and compact: Lightweight design fits easily in your trunk or glovebox.
- Multi-functional: Includes USB ports and LED light for emergencies and charging.
- Fast recharge: Fully recharges in under 4 hours for quick readiness.
- Safety first: Reverse polarity protection prevents damage during incorrect connections.
- Long shelf life: Holds charge for months, ensuring reliability when needed.
📑 Table of Contents
What Is the Costco Type S 1000A Portable Battery Car Jump Starter?
The Costco Type S 1000A Portable Battery Car Jump Starter is a compact, all-in-one emergency tool designed to jump-start your car without needing another vehicle. Think of it as a personal roadside rescue kit that fits in your glove box. Whether you’ve accidentally left your headlights on, your battery’s old, or you’re stuck in a cold winter morning, this device can bring your car back to life in minutes.
I first discovered this jump starter after a frustrating morning when my sedan wouldn’t start. The battery was dead, and my usual go-to—calling a friend—wasn’t an option. After some quick research, I found the Type S 1000A at my local Costco and decided to give it a try. What I didn’t expect was how much more it could do beyond just jump-starting. It quickly became a must-have in my car, not just for emergencies but for everyday convenience.
Key Features and Specifications
Power Output and Compatibility
The Type S 1000A delivers a peak current of 1000 amps, making it suitable for gasoline engines up to 6.0 liters and diesel engines up to 3.0 liters. That covers most standard passenger cars, SUVs, trucks, and even some small boats or motorcycles. I’ve used it on my 2.5L Toyota Camry and a friend’s 4.0L Jeep Wrangler—both started on the first try.
One thing I appreciate is the smart clamp design. The jumper cables have built-in protection against reverse polarity, short circuits, and over-voltage. This means you don’t need to be a mechanic to use it safely. Even if you accidentally connect the clamps backward, the device alerts you with a loud beep and an LED indicator—no sparks, no damage.
Battery Capacity and Charging
Inside the unit is a 18,000mAh lithium-ion battery, which is more than enough to jump-start a car multiple times on a single charge. According to the manufacturer, it can deliver up to 20 jump starts before needing a recharge. In my experience, I’ve used it about 12 times over three months, and it still shows two out of four battery bars.
Charging is straightforward. You can plug it into a standard wall outlet using the included AC adapter, or charge it in your car via the 12V cigarette lighter port. A full charge from zero takes about 4–5 hours. I usually top it off every few weeks, even if I haven’t used it, just to keep it ready.
Additional Functions: More Than Just a Jump Starter
Beyond jump-starting, the Type S 1000A doubles as a portable power bank. It has:
- A USB-A port (5V/2.4A) for charging phones, tablets, and GPS units
- A USB-C port (5V/3A) for faster charging of modern devices
- An integrated LED flashlight with three modes: steady, SOS, and strobe
I’ve used the flashlight more times than I expected. One night, my tire blew out on a dark rural road. The SOS mode helped signal passing drivers, and the steady light let me see the lug nuts clearly. The USB ports also came in handy when my phone died while waiting for roadside assistance.
There’s also a 12V DC output port, which can power small accessories like air compressors or portable coolers. I haven’t tried it with a tire inflator yet, but I’ve used it to run a small camping fan during a summer road trip—worked perfectly.
Performance in Real-World Scenarios
Jump-Starting a Dead Car Battery
Let’s get to the main event: how well does it actually jump-start a car?
I tested it on three different vehicles:
- 2018 Toyota Camry (2.5L): Dead battery after leaving lights on overnight. Connected the clamps, waited 30 seconds, and the engine turned over on the first crank.
- 2015 Jeep Wrangler (4.0L): Battery drained after a long camping trip. The jump starter powered it up in about 10 seconds. No issues.
- 2009 Ford F-150 (5.4L): Older battery, weak charge. It took two attempts—first try cranked slowly, second try started smoothly. This was the only time I noticed a slight delay, but it still worked.
One tip: always make sure the jump starter is fully charged before use. I once tried using it when it showed only one battery bar, and it struggled with a cold engine. After recharging, it worked flawlessly.
Another thing I noticed: the clamps grip securely and stay in place during cranking. On older vehicles with corroded terminals, I wiped them with a cloth first, and the connection was solid.
Using It in Cold Weather
I live in a region where winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing. Cold weather drains car batteries fast—and it’s also tough on lithium batteries in jump starters.
The Type S 1000A is rated for operation in temperatures as low as -4°F (-20°C). I tested it during a -2°F morning. My car hadn’t been started in two days. The jump starter powered up quickly, and the engine fired after about 15 seconds of cranking. The unit itself felt warm to the touch, which suggests it has internal heating to protect the battery.
Pro tip: store the jump starter inside your home or garage when possible. If it’s been sitting in your trunk overnight, bring it inside for 30 minutes before using it. Cold batteries lose capacity temporarily, but they recover once warmed up.
Power Bank and Flashlight Use
I’ve used the USB ports to charge my iPhone 13, Samsung Galaxy S21, and even a Bluetooth speaker. The 2.4A USB-A port charged my phone from 10% to 60% in about 45 minutes. The USB-C port was slightly faster, especially with a compatible fast-charging cable.
The flashlight is surprisingly bright—about 150 lumens. It’s not a tactical light, but it’s more than enough for changing a tire, reading maps, or signaling for help. The SOS mode flashes a repeating pattern that’s easy to recognize. I used it once when my car broke down on a foggy highway, and a truck driver noticed me from 200 yards away.
One thing to note: using the flashlight or charging devices drains the battery faster. I’d recommend saving the jump-starting power for emergencies and using the USB ports for light charging only. If you plan to charge multiple devices, consider carrying a separate power bank.
Design, Build Quality, and Portability
Size and Weight
The Type S 1000A measures 7.2 x 3.3 x 1.4 inches and weighs 1.8 pounds. That’s about the size of a large smartphone—maybe a bit thicker. It fits easily in a glove box, center console, or under a seat. I keep mine in a small fabric pouch (not included) to protect the clamps and screen.
Compared to older lead-acid jump starters, this is a huge improvement. I remember my dad’s old “brick” jump starter—heavy, bulky, and required wall charging for 12+ hours. The Type S is lightweight, modern, and always ready.
Display and Controls
The front panel has a small LCD screen that shows:
- Battery level (in 25% increments)
- Voltage output
- Error codes (if something goes wrong)
The screen is backlit, so you can read it in the dark. The buttons are rubberized and responsive. There’s a power button, a mode selector (for flashlight), and a jump-start activation button. I like that you have to press and hold the jump-start button for 3 seconds to engage it—this prevents accidental activation.
The clamps are detachable, which makes storage easier. They’re also color-coded (red for positive, black for negative) and have rubber grips for a secure hold.
Durability and Materials
The outer shell is made of impact-resistant plastic with a matte finish. It feels solid but not fragile. I’ve dropped it from waist height onto pavement twice (accidentally), and there were no cracks or malfunctions.
The cables are thick and flexible, not stiff like some cheap jump starters. After six months of use, they still look new. The clamps have strong springs and sharp teeth, so they bite into corroded terminals well.
One minor issue: the screen is a bit small. If you’re over 40 and have mild vision issues, you might need reading glasses to see the battery level clearly. Not a dealbreaker, but worth mentioning.
Pros and Cons: What Works—and What Doesn’t
The Good
- Reliable jump-starting: Works on most standard vehicles, even in cold weather
- Smart safety features: Reverse polarity protection, spark-proof clamps, over-charge protection
- Multi-functional: Jump starter, power bank, flashlight, and 12V power supply in one
- Fast charging: Recharges in under 5 hours; can be charged at home or in-car
- Compact and lightweight: Easy to store and carry
- Affordable for the features: Priced around $80–$90 at Costco (often on sale)
The Not-So-Good
- Not for large diesel trucks: The 1000A rating limits use to engines under 6.0L gas or 3.0L diesel. If you drive a diesel pickup or commercial vehicle, you’ll need a higher-amp model.
- Screen is small: Hard to read for some users, especially in direct sunlight
- Battery drains slowly when idle: Even when turned off, it loses about 5% charge per month. Not a problem if you recharge every 3–6 months, but something to keep in mind.
- No carrying case included: You’ll need to buy one separately to protect the clamps and screen
- Limited USB-C fast charging: It supports 3A, but not higher voltages (like 9V or 12V) for super-fast charging
Overall, the pros far outweigh the cons. The limitations are mostly about expectations—knowing what the device is (and isn’t) designed for.
How It Compares to Other Jump Starters
To give you context, here’s a quick comparison of the Costco Type S 1000A with two popular alternatives:
| Feature | Type S 1000A | NOCO Boost Plus GB40 | DBPOWER 800A |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peak Amps | 1000A | 1000A | 800A |
| Battery Capacity | 18,000mAh | 18,000mAh | 15,000mAh |
| USB Ports | 1x USB-A, 1x USB-C | 1x USB-A | 1x USB-A |
| Flashlight | Yes (3 modes) | Yes (3 modes) | Yes (2 modes) |
| 12V DC Output | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Smart Clamps | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Price (Approx.) | $85 | $100 | $70 |
| Weight | 1.8 lbs | 2.4 lbs | 1.6 lbs |
The Type S 1000A holds its own. It matches the NOCO GB40 in power and features but is slightly lighter and often cheaper at Costco. The DBPOWER is lighter and less expensive, but has lower amp output and fewer USB options.
One standout feature of the Type S is the USB-C port—many competitors still only offer USB-A. This makes it more future-proof for charging newer phones and laptops.
I also like that Costco offers a 90-day return policy. If you try it and don’t like it, you can return it—no questions asked. That’s not always the case with online brands.
Final Verdict: Is It Worth Buying?
After months of real-world use, I can confidently say the Costco Type S 1000A Portable Battery Car Jump Starter is one of the best investments I’ve made for my car.
It’s not just about peace of mind—it’s about practicality. I’ve used it for jump-starts, phone charging, emergency lighting, and even powering small devices on road trips. It’s reliable, well-designed, and packed with features that go far beyond its primary purpose.
Is it perfect? No. The screen could be bigger, and I wish it came with a case. But for under $90, you’re getting a high-quality, multi-functional tool that could save you hundreds in towing fees or emergency calls.
Who should buy it?
- Car owners who want a reliable backup for dead batteries
- Frequent travelers or road trippers
- People who live in cold climates
- Anyone who wants a compact emergency kit with power and light
Who might skip it?
- Owners of large diesel trucks (look for 1500A+ models)
- Those who only need basic jump-starting and don’t care about USB charging or flashlights
- People who already have a heavy-duty lead-acid jump starter (though I’d still recommend upgrading for convenience)
My advice? If you see the Type S 1000A at Costco, grab one. Even if you never need to jump-start your car, the USB ports and flashlight alone make it worth the price. And if you do end up with a dead battery? You’ll be glad you have it—ready, reliable, and right there in your car.
At the end of the day, this little device has already paid for itself in peace of mind. That’s something you can’t put a price on.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Costco Type S 1000A Portable Battery Car Jump Starter stand out?
The Costco Type S 1000A Portable Battery Car Jump Starter delivers 1000 peak amps to jump gas engines up to 6.0L and diesel up to 3.0L. It also doubles as a power bank with dual USB ports, making it a versatile emergency tool.
How long does the battery last on this jump starter?
The lithium-ion battery holds a charge for up to 6 months when idle and recharges fully in 4-5 hours via the included wall charger. Regular use may require more frequent charging depending on conditions.
Can the Type S 1000A safely jump my car without damaging electronics?
Yes, this model includes reverse polarity protection, spark-proof clamps, and surge protection to prevent damage to your vehicle’s sensitive electronics. Always follow the included instructions for best results.
Does the Costco Type S 1000A work in cold weather?
Yes, it operates effectively in temperatures as low as -4°F (-20°C), making it reliable for winter emergencies. Cold weather may temporarily reduce battery capacity, but performance remains stable.
Is the Type S 1000A compatible with motorcycles or ATVs?
Absolutely—this portable battery car jump starter works with smaller engines like motorcycles, ATVs, and lawnmowers. Its compact size and 1000A output make it ideal for light-duty vehicles too.
What accessories come with the Type S 1000A jump starter?
The package includes heavy-duty jumper cables, a 12V wall charger, a car charging cable, and a zippered storage case. Everything needed for quick deployment during emergencies is included.