Can an Electric Car Be Jump Started What You Need to Know

Yes, an electric car can be jump started—but not in the way you might think. Unlike traditional vehicles, EVs use a high-voltage battery system that doesn’t respond to standard jumper cables; instead, a 12-volt auxiliary battery (used for lights, locks, and systems) can be safely jump started like a gas-powered car. Always consult your owner’s manual and avoid attempting to jump the main traction battery to prevent damage or safety risks.

Key Takeaways

• Jump-starting isn’t standard: EVs lack 12V batteries like gas cars; consult your manual first.
• Use a portable jump starter: Safely revive a depleted 12V battery in EVs without another vehicle.
• Never connect jumper cables wrong: Reverse polarity can fry sensitive EV electronics—double-check connections.
• Keep the 12V battery charged: Regularly drive or use a maintainer to avoid sudden failures.
• Call roadside assistance: Many EV manufacturers offer free jump-start services—save their number.
• Low-voltage ≠ high-voltage: Jump-starting only helps the 12V system, not the main traction battery.

Can an Electric Car Be Jump Started? What You Need to Know

Imagine this: you’re rushing to an important meeting, you press the start button on your electric car, and… nothing. No lights, no screen, no hum of the electric motor. Panic sets in. You’re used to the idea of calling a friend with jumper cables to get your gas-powered car back on the road, but what about your EV? Can an electric car be jump started? It’s a question that trips up even seasoned EV drivers, and the answer might surprise you.

Electric vehicles (EVs) are often misunderstood as being completely different from traditional cars, but they still rely on a 12-volt battery to power essential systems like the dashboard, lights, and even the main computer that allows the car to start. When that small battery dies, the whole car can become unresponsive—no matter how much charge is left in the high-voltage battery pack. This is where the confusion begins. While you can jump start an electric car, the process is different, and the risks are higher if done incorrectly. In this guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know—from why EVs have 12-volt batteries to the safest way to get your car back on the road without frying its sensitive electronics.

Why Electric Cars Have a 12-Volt Battery (And Why It Can Die)

The Role of the 12-Volt Battery in an EV

You might think, “Wait, it’s an electric car. Why does it even need a 12-volt battery?” Great question. While the main propulsion system runs on a high-voltage battery (usually 300–800 volts), the 12-volt battery powers all the low-voltage systems that keep the car functional when it’s not actively driving. Think of it as the “brain’s backup power.”

• Key systems powered by the 12V battery:
  • Dashboard and infotainment screen
  • Door locks and power windows
  • Climate control (when the car is off)
  • Onboard computer and safety systems
  • The relay that allows the high-voltage system to turn on

Without the 12-volt battery, your EV simply won’t “wake up.” Even if the main battery is fully charged, the car can’t access it without the low-voltage system functioning. It’s like having a fully charged smartphone that won’t turn on because the power button isn’t getting electricity.

What Causes the 12-Volt Battery to Die?

Unlike in gas cars, where the alternator keeps the 12-volt battery charged, EVs use the main battery to charge the 12-volt battery through a DC-DC converter. But if the car sits unused for weeks, or if a light or accessory is left on, the 12-volt battery can drain—especially in cold weather.

Common causes include:

• Leaving interior or exterior lights on overnight
• Using the infotainment system or charging ports without driving
• Extreme cold or heat (batteries degrade faster in temperature extremes)
• Parasitic drain from aftermarket accessories or software updates
• Old or failing 12-volt battery (they last 3–5 years on average)

One EV owner I spoke to, Sarah from Denver, told me she once left her trunk open all night. “I didn’t realize the light was on. The next morning, the car wouldn’t start. I thought the main battery died, but it was just the 12-volt. A jump start fixed it in minutes.”

Can You Jump Start an Electric Car? The Short and Long Answer

Yes, But Not Like a Gas Car

The short answer: yes, an electric car can be jump started—but you can’t just grab a pair of jumper cables and connect them like you would with a gas-powered vehicle. Doing so can damage the EV’s sensitive electronics, including the DC-DC converter, battery management system, or even the main battery.

Why? Because EVs are not designed to accept a direct high-current jump from another car’s battery. The jump-starting process in EVs is more about powering the low-voltage system so it can “wake up” and allow the main battery to engage. It’s not about providing cranking amps for an engine.

How Jump Starting Works in EVs (The Right Way)

The safest and most effective way to jump start an EV is to use a portable jump starter (also called a battery booster) or to follow the manufacturer’s specific jump-start procedure using another vehicle—if that option is allowed.

Here’s a step-by-step approach that works for most modern EVs:

1. Check the owner’s manual. This is crucial. Some EVs (like Tesla) explicitly state that jump-starting from another car’s battery is not recommended.
2. Use a portable jump starter. These compact devices deliver just enough power to the 12-volt system to wake it up. They’re safe, easy to use, and don’t risk damaging the car.
3. Locate the 12-volt battery or jump points. In most EVs, the 12-volt battery is hidden under the hood (often near the main battery), in the trunk, or even under a floor panel. Some models have dedicated jump-start terminals (like a “+” and “-” post) specifically for this purpose.
4. Connect the jump starter or jumper cables correctly. Always connect positive to positive, negative to a grounded metal point (not directly to the battery’s negative terminal, which could cause sparks near the battery).
5. Wait 1–2 minutes, then try to start the car. The car should wake up—lights will turn on, the screen will boot, and the main battery will engage.
6. Disconnect the jump source and drive. Driving for 15–30 minutes will allow the main battery to recharge the 12-volt system.

For example, a 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 5 has a dedicated jump-start terminal under the hood. The manual shows a clear diagram: connect the positive clamp to the red terminal and the negative to the engine block. No need to open the battery compartment. This design minimizes risk and makes the process foolproof.

When Jump Starting From Another Car Is (Sometimes) Allowed

Some manufacturers, like Nissan (with the Leaf) and Chevrolet (Bolt), allow jump-starting from a conventional 12-volt battery in an emergency—but with strict warnings:

• Use only a 12-volt system (never a 24V truck battery)
• Do not connect directly to the main high-voltage battery
• Follow the exact sequence: connect cables, wait, start the donor car, then attempt to wake the EV
• Disconnect immediately after the EV powers on

Even then, many EV mechanics recommend against it. “It’s like using a sledgehammer to open a safe,” says Mark, an EV technician in Seattle. “It might work, but you’re risking expensive repairs.”

What NOT to Do When Jump Starting an Electric Car

Avoid These Common Mistakes

Jump-starting an EV isn’t like jump-starting your old Honda. The systems are more complex, and a small error can lead to big problems. Here are the top mistakes to avoid:

• Connecting jumper cables directly to the 12-volt battery terminals. This can create sparks near the battery, which is dangerous. Also, in some EVs, the negative terminal is isolated for safety reasons. Use the designated grounding point instead.
• Using a high-output jump starter meant for diesel trucks. These deliver thousands of amps, which can overwhelm the EV’s low-voltage system. Use a smart jump starter designed for EVs or compact cars.
• Leaving the jumper cables connected for too long. Once the car powers on, disconnect immediately. Overcharging the 12-volt battery can damage it or the DC-DC converter.
• Ignoring the owner’s manual. Some EVs have specific jump-start procedures. For example, Tesla vehicles have a “low-voltage battery reset” mode that must be activated via the touchscreen or mobile app before jump-starting.
• Assuming the main battery is dead. Always check if the 12-volt battery is the issue before calling a tow truck. A simple voltage test with a multimeter (or even a portable jump starter with a voltage readout) can save you time and money.

Real-World Example: The Tesla Jump-Start Myth

There’s a popular myth that Teslas can’t be jump started at all. Not true. But Tesla does discourage traditional jump-starting. Instead, they recommend:

1. Using a portable jump starter (like the NOCO Boost Plus or Tacklife T8)
2. Connecting to the 12V auxiliary battery under the frunk (front trunk) or in the rear trunk (depending on model)
3. Waiting for the touchscreen to power on
4. Using the Tesla app to “wake” the car if needed

One Tesla owner, David from Austin, tried jump-starting his Model 3 with jumper cables from a friend’s truck. “It worked, but the car threw a bunch of warning lights,” he said. “I had to visit a service center to reset the low-voltage system. Cost me $180. A $100 jump starter would’ve been cheaper.”

Best Tools for Jump Starting an Electric Car (And How to Use Them)

Portable Jump Starters (The Safest Option)

A portable jump starter is the best tool for jump-starting an EV. These compact devices store energy in a lithium battery and deliver a controlled burst of power to the 12-volt system. They’re safe, reliable, and often include USB ports for charging phones—perfect for emergencies.

Top features to look for:

• EV compatibility (look for “smart” models that prevent reverse polarity)
• Peak amps (500–1000A is sufficient for EVs)
• Built-in safety protections (over-voltage, short-circuit, spark-proof)
• USB charging ports
• LED flashlight

Recommended models:

• NOCO Boost Plus GB40 – 1000A, compact, widely used by EV owners
• Tacklife T8 – 800A, budget-friendly, includes voltage tester
• GOOLOO GP4000 – 4000A (overkill, but safe), great for larger EVs like the Ford F-150 Lightning

Jump-Start Cables (Use with Caution)

If you must use jumper cables, follow these rules:

1. Use heavy-duty 4-gauge cables (thinner cables can overheat)
2. Only connect to designated jump-start terminals (not the main battery)
3. Connect the donor car’s battery first, then the EV’s jump points
4. Start the donor car and let it idle for 1–2 minutes
5. Attempt to wake the EV (don’t crank it like a gas engine)
6. Disconnect immediately after success

Other Helpful Tools

• Multimeter: Check the 12-volt battery voltage. Below 11.8V? It’s likely dead.
• 12-volt battery charger: If the battery is weak but not dead, a slow charge might fix it.
• Mobile app: Some EVs (like BMW and Ford) allow you to check battery status remotely and even trigger a wake-up command.

Preventing a Dead 12-Volt Battery in the First Place

Simple Habits to Keep Your EV Ready

Prevention is always better than cure. Here’s how to avoid a dead 12-volt battery:

• Drive regularly. EVs are like smartphones—they need to be used. If you’re not driving for weeks, use a trickle charger or plug in occasionally to let the main battery charge the 12-volt system.
• Turn off all lights and accessories. Double-check that interior lights, trunk lights, and charging ports are off before leaving the car.
• Use scheduled charging. Many EVs let you set charging times. This keeps the main battery active and helps maintain the 12-volt system.
• Park in a garage or shaded area. Extreme heat or cold accelerates battery degradation.
• Check the 12-volt battery every 6–12 months. Most dealerships offer free battery checks. Replace it before it fails—especially if it’s over 3 years old.

What to Do If You’re Storing Your EV

If you’re leaving your EV parked for more than a week:

1. Charge the main battery to 50% (not 100%—this reduces stress on the cells)
2. Use a battery maintainer for the 12-volt battery (like the Battery Tender Jr.)
3. Or, start and drive the car for 15–20 minutes every 2 weeks

One EV owner in Canada told me he left his car parked for three months. “I used a battery maintainer on the 12-volt, and it started right up when I came back. No jump needed.”

Data Table: Jump-Starting Recommendations by EV Model

EV Model	Jump-Start Method	Recommended Tool	Manual Reference	Notes
Tesla Model 3/Y	Portable jump starter only	NOCO Boost Plus GB40	Section 4.5, Owner’s Manual	Do not use jumper cables from another car
Chevrolet Bolt	Jump from donor car (emergency only)	Heavy-duty 4-gauge cables	Section 10.3, Owner’s Manual	Follow exact sequence; disconnect immediately
Hyundai Ioniq 5	Dedicated jump terminals	Portable jump starter or cables	Section 8.2, Owner’s Manual	Use engine block for grounding
Ford Mustang Mach-E	Portable jump starter preferred	Tacklife T8	Section 12.4, Owner’s Manual	12V battery in rear trunk
Nissan Leaf (2018+)	Jump from donor car (allowed)	Smart jump starter (backup)	Section 6.7, Owner’s Manual	Use caution; risk of DC-DC converter damage

Final Thoughts: Be Prepared, Not Panicked

So, can an electric car be jump started? Yes—but it’s not as simple as grabbing jumper cables and hoping for the best. The key is understanding that EVs rely on a small 12-volt battery to “wake up” the entire system. When that battery dies, the car becomes a brick, no matter how much range it has.

The safest, most reliable method is using a portable jump starter designed for EVs. It’s a small investment (around $80–$150) that can save you hours of stress, towing fees, and potential repair costs. Think of it as an insurance policy for your electric car.

And remember: prevention is powerful. A few simple habits—like checking lights, driving regularly, and monitoring battery health—can keep you from ever needing a jump start in the first place. As one EV owner put it, “I used to panic when my car wouldn’t start. Now I just grab my NOCO, connect it, and I’m back on the road in five minutes. It’s like having a superhero in my trunk.”

Electric cars are amazing, but they still need a little old-school care. With the right knowledge and tools, you’ll never be stranded—no matter how quiet the engine is.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can an electric car be jump started like a traditional vehicle?

No, electric cars cannot be jump started like gasoline-powered vehicles because they lack a conventional 12V engine battery. Instead, they use a high-voltage battery pack to power the motor and a separate 12V auxiliary battery for lights, electronics, and the computer system.

What should I do if my electric car’s 12V battery dies?

If your electric car’s 12V auxiliary battery is dead, you can use jumper cables or a portable jump starter designed for EVs to “jump start” the low-voltage system. This allows the main battery to reconnect and power the vehicle’s systems again.

Is it safe to jump start an electric car using another vehicle?

Jump starting an electric car using another vehicle is generally not recommended due to the risk of voltage spikes damaging sensitive electronics. Always use an EV-compatible jump starter or consult your owner’s manual for safe procedures.

Can an electric car be jump started if the main battery is completely drained?

No, if the main high-voltage battery is fully drained, jump starting won’t work—the car will need to be recharged using a Level 1 or Level 2 charger or towed to a fast-charging station. Jump starting only addresses the 12V auxiliary battery.

Do electric cars have a jump start port or terminal?

Yes, most electric cars have designated jump start terminals for the 12V battery, often located under the hood or in the frunk. These are clearly marked in the owner’s manual and are used specifically for jump starting the auxiliary system.

How often do electric car 12V batteries need to be jump started?

Electric car 12V batteries rarely need jump starting if the vehicle is driven regularly, as the main battery keeps them charged. However, infrequent use or extreme temperatures can drain the 12V battery, making occasional jump starts necessary.