Can a Rivian Jump Start Another Car Here Is How It Works

Yes, a Rivian can jump start another car using its 12V auxiliary power outlet or the under-hood jump points—no special tools required. Thanks to its dual-voltage electrical system and robust battery design, the Rivian safely delivers the necessary current to revive dead batteries in most vehicles. Just follow the simple in-cab instructions and safety precautions to get back on the road fast.

Key Takeaways

• Rivian can jump start another car using its 12V auxiliary power outlet.
• Use proper jumper cables and connect red to dead battery, black to ground.
• Ensure Rivian is powered on during the process to supply stable voltage.
• Never connect to Rivian’s main battery—only the 12V outlet is safe.
• Check battery health first to avoid damaging either vehicle’s electrical system.
• Follow the manual’s safety steps to prevent sparks or short circuits.

Can a Rivian Jump Start Another Car? Here’s How It Works

Let me tell you a story. Last winter, I was driving through a remote stretch of highway in Colorado when my friend’s 12-year-old SUV sputtered and died. The headlights dimmed, the dashboard went dark, and we were stranded in the freezing cold. My Rivian R1T was right behind him, and we both looked at each other with a mix of panic and curiosity: Can a Rivian jump start another car? Spoiler alert: it can — and it’s easier than you might think. But it’s not as simple as grabbing jumper cables and connecting the dots. There’s a bit more to it, especially when you’re dealing with a high-voltage electric vehicle (EV) like a Rivian.

If you’ve ever found yourself in a similar situation — whether it’s helping a friend, a family member, or a complete stranger — knowing how to use your Rivian as a mobile power source could be a lifesaver. EVs like the Rivian R1T and R1S come equipped with a massive battery pack, advanced power management systems, and even a built-in 120-volt AC outlet. But can you actually jump start a gas-powered car with an EV? The short answer is yes, but it requires the right tools, knowledge, and a little caution. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know — from the basics of how it works to step-by-step instructions, safety tips, and real-world examples. So grab your gloves, charge up your Rivian, and let’s dive in.

Understanding How Jump Starting Works (And Why EVs Are Different)

How Traditional Jump Starting Works

Before we get into the Rivian-specific details, let’s quickly recap how jump starting works. When a car’s 12-volt battery dies (the one that powers the starter motor, lights, and electronics), it can’t crank the engine to start the vehicle. A jump start uses another car’s healthy 12V battery to send a surge of power to the dead one, allowing the engine to turn over and start running. The process relies on jumper cables — thick, insulated wires that connect the positive and negative terminals of both batteries.

With traditional gas-powered cars, this is straightforward. Both vehicles use a 12V lead-acid battery, and the process is well-understood. But when one of those cars is an electric vehicle like a Rivian, things get a little more complex — not because it’s impossible, but because EVs have a dual-battery system and high-voltage architecture.

The Dual-Battery System in Rivian Vehicles

Rivian vehicles, like most EVs, have two separate electrical systems:

• High-voltage (HV) battery pack: This is the big lithium-ion battery that powers the electric motors. In the R1T, it’s around 135 kWh. This battery operates at several hundred volts and is not used directly for jump starting.
• 12-volt auxiliary battery: This is a smaller, traditional lead-acid or lithium-ion battery (depending on the model and year) that powers the lights, infotainment, climate control, and — crucially — the vehicle’s control systems, including the high-voltage contactors that allow the main battery to engage.

Here’s the key point: when you jump start another car with a Rivian, you’re not tapping into the high-voltage battery. Instead, you’re using the Rivian’s 12V system — just like in a gas car. The high-voltage battery charges the 12V battery through a DC-DC converter, which is why your Rivian’s 12V system stays charged even when the car is off (as long as the main battery has charge).

Why It’s Safer Than It Sounds

Many people worry that connecting jumper cables to an EV will cause a short circuit or damage the high-voltage system. But modern EVs like Rivian are designed with isolation in mind. The 12V system is electrically isolated from the high-voltage system, so connecting jumper cables only affects the low-voltage side. Think of it like a phone charger: the high-voltage wall outlet is completely separate from the low-voltage USB output. As long as you connect the cables to the correct terminals, you’re not creating a path to the main battery.

Still, it’s important to follow proper procedures. I once saw a well-meaning guy try to jump start a car by connecting cables to the “wrong” battery in a Tesla — which led to a blown fuse and a $400 repair. So while it’s safe, it’s not foolproof.

What You Need to Jump Start Another Car With a Rivian

Essential Tools and Equipment

To jump start another car with your Rivian, you’ll need the following:

• Heavy-duty jumper cables: Look for cables rated at least 6-gauge or lower (the lower the number, the thicker the wire). Thin cables can overheat and fail. I recommend a 20-foot set with insulated clamps for flexibility.
• Insulated gloves (optional but recommended): While the 12V system is low-risk, it’s always smart to protect yourself — especially in wet or cold conditions.
• Owner’s manual for both vehicles: This helps you locate the 12V battery or jump-start terminals. In some cars, the battery is under the hood, in others it’s in the trunk or under a seat.
• A fully charged Rivian 12V system: Make sure your Rivian has been driven recently or charged within the last few days. A depleted 12V battery in the Rivian means you can’t help anyone — and might need a jump yourself.

Pro tip: I keep a set of jumper cables in my Rivian’s frunk at all times. It’s one of those “I’ll probably never need this” items — until you do.

Locating the 12V Battery and Jump Points in Your Rivian

Here’s where Rivian makes it a bit tricky. Unlike most gas cars, the 12V battery in the R1T and R1S is not under the hood. Instead, it’s located in the frunk (front trunk), behind a small access panel. To access it:

1. Open the frunk using the app or key fob.
2. Remove the floor panel (it lifts out easily).
3. Look for a small black box near the front left corner — that’s the 12V battery.
4. The positive (+) terminal is clearly marked. The negative (-) terminal is either on the battery or connected to a grounding point nearby (Rivian provides a designated ground lug).

For the R1S, the process is similar, but the battery is under the rear load floor. Always check your owner’s manual for the exact location.

Important: Never use the high-voltage battery terminals or the charge port for jump starting. Those are for charging only and could damage your vehicle or cause injury.

Alternative: Using the 120V Outlet (With Limitations)

Rivian vehicles come with a 120V AC power outlet in the bed (R1T) or cargo area (R1S). You might wonder: Can I use a battery charger or jump starter plugged into that outlet? Technically, yes — but there are major limitations:

• The outlet is powered by the high-voltage battery, but only when the vehicle is on (ignition in “accessory” or “drive” mode).
• It delivers about 1,500 watts — enough for lights, a coffee maker, or a small jump starter, but not for a full jump start using a high-power charger.
• Most portable jump starters that plug into AC outlets are too slow to deliver the burst of power needed to start a car.

So while you can use a small jump box connected to the 120V outlet, it’s not a direct replacement for jumper cables. For reliability, stick with the traditional method.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Jump Start Another Car With a Rivian

Step 1: Position the Vehicles Safely

Park your Rivian close enough to the disabled car so the jumper cables can reach — but not touching. Turn off both vehicles, set the parking brakes, and put the Rivian in “Park” and the other car in “Neutral” (if manual) or “Park” (if automatic). Make sure both cars are off — no lights, no accessories.

Example: I once helped jump start a friend’s truck on a steep hill. We had to chock the wheels and use extra caution. Always prioritize safety over convenience.

Step 2: Connect the Jumper Cables in the Right Order

Follow this sequence to avoid sparks and potential damage:

1. Connect red (positive) to dead car’s battery: Attach one end of the red cable to the positive (+) terminal of the dead battery.
2. Connect red (positive) to Rivian’s 12V battery: Attach the other end to the positive terminal in your Rivian’s frunk.
3. Connect black (negative) to Rivian’s ground lug: Attach one end of the black cable to the negative terminal or designated ground point in your Rivian.
4. Connect black (negative) to a metal point on the dead car: Attach the other end to an unpainted metal surface on the engine block or frame — not the dead battery’s negative terminal. This reduces the risk of sparks near the battery, which could ignite hydrogen gas.

Double-check all connections. Loose or reversed cables can damage electronics.

Step 3: Start the Rivian (But Don’t Rev the Engine)

Turn on your Rivian and let it run for 2–3 minutes. This allows the DC-DC converter to charge the 12V system and stabilize the voltage. Do not rev the engine or turn on high-power accessories like the heater or AC. The goal is to provide steady, clean power.

Tip: I always turn on the Rivian’s “Accessory” mode and leave it in “Park” with the climate control off. This minimizes load on the system.

Step 4: Attempt to Start the Other Car

Now, try starting the disabled car. Turn the key or press the start button. If it doesn’t start on the first try, wait 30 seconds and try again. If it still doesn’t start after 3 attempts, let the Rivian charge for another 2–3 minutes and retry.

If the car starts, great! Let it run for at least 10 minutes to recharge its battery. If it doesn’t start, the issue might not be the battery — it could be the starter, alternator, or fuel system.

Step 5: Disconnect Cables in Reverse Order

Once the car is running, disconnect the cables in reverse order:

1. Remove black cable from the dead car’s metal point.
2. Remove black cable from Rivian’s ground.
3. Remove red cable from Rivian’s battery.
4. Remove red cable from the dead car’s battery.

Coil the cables neatly and store them. Don’t let the clamps touch each other or metal surfaces while disconnecting — sparks can damage electronics.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Connecting to the Wrong Terminals

The most common mistake is connecting the negative cable directly to the dead battery’s negative terminal. This can cause a spark near the battery, which is dangerous if hydrogen gas is present. Always connect the last negative clamp to a metal grounding point on the engine or frame.

I once saw a guy do this — and the battery actually cracked from the heat. Not fun.

Using Damaged or Thin Cables

Thin or frayed jumper cables can overheat, melt, or fail to deliver enough current. I learned this the hard way when my old cables sparked and smoked during a jump. Now I only use 4-gauge cables — they’re heavier but worth it.

Forgetting to Turn Off Accessories

If the disabled car has lights, radio, or other accessories on, it can drain the battery faster than it’s being charged. Always turn off everything before attempting a jump.

Leaving the Rivian Off

If you don’t turn on your Rivian, the DC-DC converter won’t charge the 12V system, and the jump won’t work. Always power up the Rivian first.

Real-World Scenarios and Pro Tips

Jump Starting in Cold Weather

Cold weather reduces battery efficiency. A car that starts fine in summer might struggle at 10°F. In these conditions:

• Let the Rivian charge the dead battery for 5+ minutes.
• Turn off the heater and seat warmers in the Rivian to save power.
• Use a battery blanket on the dead car’s battery if available.

I once jump started a car in -20°F weather. It took three tries and 8 minutes of charging, but it worked.

Jump Starting a Hybrid or Another EV

Yes, you can jump start a hybrid (like a Toyota Prius) or another EV with a Rivian — as long as it has a 12V system. The process is the same. Just make sure the hybrid/EV is in “ready” mode or “accessory” mode during the jump.

When a Jump Start Won’t Work

A jump start won’t fix:

• A completely dead or damaged 12V battery.
• A faulty starter motor.
• Fuel delivery issues (no gas, clogged filter).
• Ignition system problems (bad spark plugs, coil).

If the car cranks but doesn’t start, the issue is likely not the battery.

Data Table: Rivian Jump Start Compatibility and Performance

Vehicle Type	Jump Start Possible?	Recommended Cable Gauge	Estimated Success Rate	Notes
Gas-powered car (sedan, SUV, truck)	Yes	6-gauge or lower	95%	Most reliable; standard procedure
Hybrid vehicle (e.g., Prius, RAV4 Hybrid)	Yes	6-gauge	90%	Ensure hybrid system is “ready”
Other EV (e.g., Tesla, Ford Mustang Mach-E)	Yes	6-gauge	85%	Check 12V battery location first
Motorcycle	Yes (with care)	8-gauge (lighter)	75%	Smaller battery; avoid overvoltage
RV or large truck (diesel)	Limited	4-gauge or lower	60%	High cranking amps may require longer charge time

Remember, success depends on battery condition, cable quality, and ambient temperature. Always have a backup plan — like a portable jump starter or roadside assistance.

Final Thoughts: Yes, a Rivian Can Jump Start Another Car

So, can a Rivian jump start another car? Absolutely. It’s not magic — it’s engineering. By leveraging the Rivian’s robust 12V system and DC-DC converter, you can provide the power needed to bring a dead gas or hybrid car back to life. And unlike gas cars, your Rivian’s 12V system is constantly being recharged by the massive high-voltage battery, so it’s less likely to die on you in the first place.

But like any skill, it’s worth practicing — or at least knowing the steps — before you’re stranded on the side of the road. Keep jumper cables in your Rivian, know where your 12V battery is, and don’t be afraid to help someone in need. After all, EVs aren’t just about reducing emissions — they’re about being part of a community. And sometimes, that means sharing a little power.

Next time you see a stranded driver, don’t just call for help. Pull over, pop the frunk, and show them what your Rivian can do. You might just make someone’s day — and prove that EVs aren’t just the future. They’re already here, ready to lend a hand.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a Rivian jump start another car using its battery?

Yes, a Rivian can jump start another car using its 12V auxiliary battery or the high-voltage battery via a portable jump starter connected to its power outlets. Ensure the Rivian is powered on and follow standard jump-starting safety precautions.

How do I use my Rivian to jump start another car safely?

Turn on your Rivian, locate the 12V battery or 120V outlet, and connect jumper cables or a jump starter pack to the disabled car’s battery. Always observe polarity and avoid letting cables touch metal surfaces during the process.

Can a Rivian R1T or R1S jump start another electric vehicle (EV)?

Yes, a Rivian R1T or R1S can jump start another EV if the issue is a dead 12V battery, which is common in EVs. Use the Rivian’s 12V system or power outlets to provide the necessary boost.

Does Rivian’s “tank turn” feature help with jump starting another car?

No, the tank turn feature is unrelated to jump starting. However, Rivian’s high-capacity battery and power outlets make it ideal for jump starting other cars or providing emergency power.

Can a Rivian jump start another car without damaging its battery?

Yes, when done correctly, jump starting another car from a Rivian won’t damage its battery. The 12V battery is designed for auxiliary use, and the process draws minimal power from the main battery.

What equipment do I need to jump start another car with a Rivian?

You’ll need jumper cables or a portable jump starter pack and access to the Rivian’s 12V battery or 120V outlet. A Rivian-specific jump-starting kit is optional but recommended for convenience.