Type S 12V Jump Starter Costco Review Best Value Pick

The Type S 12V Jump Starter from Costco delivers exceptional value with reliable performance at an unbeatable price, making it a top pick for budget-savvy drivers. Compact yet powerful, it effortlessly starts most vehicles and includes USB ports for on-the-go charging, all backed by Costco’s satisfaction guarantee.

Key Takeaways

• Compact yet powerful: Delivers 12V jump-starting with 1000 peak amps.
• Costco value: Priced competitively with reliable performance and warranty.
• Built-in safety: Reverse polarity and spark-proof tech protect users.
• Multi-functional: Doubles as a power bank with USB ports.
• Fast recharge: Fully recharges in under 4 hours via included cables.
• Portable design: Lightweight with a durable carry case for easy storage.

Introduction: Why I Almost Got Stranded (And How This Little Device Saved Me)

I’ll never forget the morning I woke up to a completely dead car battery. The sun was shining, the birds were chirping, and I was about to head out for a weekend road trip—until I turned the key and heard that dreaded *click… click… click* sound. No crank. No start. Just silence. I was in a quiet neighborhood, no jumper cables in sight, and my phone was at 12%. Panic mode? Activated. I ended up calling roadside assistance, which took nearly 90 minutes to arrive. That day, I swore I’d never be caught unprepared again.

Fast forward a few weeks, and I found myself browsing the automotive section at Costco. That’s where I spotted the Type S 12V Jump Starter—a compact, lithium-powered device that promised to jump-start dead batteries without another car. Skeptical but intrigued, I decided to give it a shot. After using it for several months—through cold mornings, long trips, and even a few emergency situations—I can confidently say it’s become one of the most practical tools I own. If you’ve ever worried about being stranded with a dead battery, or just want peace of mind in your car, this review is for you. I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the Type S 12V Jump Starter from Costco, from performance and safety to real-world usability and value.

What Is the Type S 12V Jump Starter and Why Does It Matter?

Let’s start with the basics. The Type S 12V Jump Starter is a portable, lithium-ion battery-powered device designed to jump-start 12-volt car, truck, SUV, and even motorcycle engines. Unlike traditional jumper cables that require another vehicle, this unit is self-contained. It’s like having a spare battery in your trunk—minus the weight, size, and hassle.

How It Works (Without the Tech Jargon)

Think of it like a power bank for your phone, but built for your car. When your battery is dead, you connect the jump starter’s clamps to your battery terminals (red to positive, black to negative), turn on the unit, and start your engine. The internal battery delivers a burst of power to the starter motor, just like a good battery would. Most importantly, it does this safely, thanks to built-in protection circuits.

Why It’s a Game-Changer for Every Driver

Here’s the thing: car batteries die. It’s not a matter of *if*, but *when*. Whether it’s extreme weather, leaving lights on, or simply age, a dead battery can happen to anyone. I’ve seen friends stranded in parking lots, at airports, and even on the side of the highway. The Type S 12V Jump Starter eliminates the need to:

• Flag down strangers for a jump (awkward and sometimes unsafe)
• Wait for roadside assistance (costly and time-consuming)
• Carry heavy jumper cables (which only work if someone else is around)

Plus, it doubles as a USB power bank, so you can charge your phone, tablet, or even a portable fan in a pinch. That’s a huge bonus, especially during power outages or camping trips.

Why Costco’s Version Stands Out

You might find similar jump starters on Amazon or at auto shops, but the Type S 12V Jump Starter from Costco comes with a few perks you won’t always find elsewhere:

• Costco’s 90-day return policy—if it doesn’t work for you, return it, no questions asked
• Frequent member-only pricing—often $10–$20 less than retail
• Reliable in-store availability—no waiting for shipping or dealing with third-party sellers

And let’s be honest: when you buy from Costco, you know it’s been vetted. They don’t stock junk. That gave me peace of mind right off the bat.

Real-World Performance: Does It Actually Start Cars?

Let’s cut to the chase: does the Type S 12V Jump Starter actually work? After testing it on three different vehicles—a 2012 Honda Accord (4-cylinder), a 2016 Ford F-150 (V6), and a 2005 Toyota Camry (with a notoriously weak battery)—the answer is a resounding yes.

Jump-Starting Success: My Real-Life Tests

Test 1: Honda Accord (Cold Start)
One winter morning, I left my lights on overnight. The battery was completely dead—no dome light, no radio, nothing. I connected the Type S unit, waited about 30 seconds (as recommended), and turned the key. The engine cranked immediately and started on the first try. No hesitation. No repeated attempts. Just a smooth start.

Test 2: Ford F-150 (Truck Engine)
Trucks need more power, right? I was a little nervous here. But after charging the unit fully (took about 4 hours), I connected it to the truck’s battery. It took two attempts—first crank was slow, but the second fired up perfectly. The manual says it supports engines up to 6.0L, and this 3.5L V6 was well within range.

Test 3: “Old Faithful” Camry (Weak Battery)
This car has a battery that’s 5 years old and barely holds a charge. I used the jump starter to get it going after a weekend of non-use. Worked flawlessly. In fact, I’ve used it three times on this car, and it’s never failed.

What the Specs Say (And What They Mean)

The Type S 12V Jump Starter is rated for:

• Peak current: 1,200 amps
• Starting current: 600 amps
• Battery capacity: 18,000 mAh
• Supported engines: Up to 6.0L gasoline, 3.0L diesel

Now, what does that mean for you? In plain terms, it’s strong enough to start most cars, SUVs, and light trucks. It won’t jump a big diesel pickup or a commercial van, but for everyday drivers? It’s more than sufficient. The 18,000 mAh battery also means you can jump-start a car multiple times on a single charge—usually 10–15 times, depending on conditions.

Charging and Recharge Time

After each use, you’ll need to recharge the unit. I found it takes about 3–4 hours using the included wall charger. You can also charge it in your car using the 12V socket (cigarette lighter), which is handy for long trips. A full charge indicator makes it easy to know when it’s ready.

Safety Features: Is It Safe to Use at Home?

This is a big one. I’ll admit, when I first held the jump starter, I was nervous. What if it sparks? What if I connect it wrong? What if it blows up? (Yes, I watched too many YouTube videos.) But after using it, I can say: it’s designed with safety first.

Smart Protection Circuits (The Tech That Keeps You Safe)

The Type S unit has multiple layers of protection:

• Reverse polarity protection: If you connect the clamps backward, it won’t work—and it’ll flash a warning light
• Over-current protection: Prevents too much power from flowing at once
• Over-voltage and short-circuit protection: Stops damage to the unit or your car
• Overheat protection: Automatically shuts down if it gets too hot

I tested the reverse polarity feature on purpose (don’t do this at home!). I connected red to negative and black to positive. The unit beeped, flashed a red light, and refused to activate. Once I fixed the clamps, it worked perfectly. That gave me a lot of confidence.

No Sparks, No Fire, No Drama

Unlike traditional jumper cables (which can spark and cause battery explosions if misused), this unit is almost foolproof. I’ve used it in the rain, in cold weather, and even on a slightly corroded battery terminal—no issues. The clamps are well-insulated, and the unit itself feels sturdy.

Important Safety Tips (From Experience)

Even with all the protections, here are a few things I learned the hard way:

• Always charge it fully before use. A low battery won’t deliver enough power.
• Don’t leave it connected for more than 10 seconds. It’s designed for quick bursts.
• Store it in a cool, dry place. Avoid extreme heat (like a hot trunk in summer).
• Check the charge level every few months. Lithium batteries lose charge over time.

One time, I left mine in my trunk over winter (it got to -10°F). When I tried to use it in spring, it wouldn’t turn on. After charging it indoors for a few hours, it came back to life. Lesson learned: store it where temperatures are stable.

Extra Features: More Than Just a Jump Starter

Here’s where the Type S 12V Jump Starter really shines. It’s not just a one-trick pony. It’s a multi-tool for emergencies.

USB Power Bank: Charge Your Phone, GPS, or Tablet

The unit has two USB ports (1A and 2.1A), so you can charge your phone while waiting for a tow, or keep your GPS running on a long trip. I used it once to charge my phone from 5% to 70% while stranded in a parking lot. It saved me from missing an important call.

Built-In LED Flashlight (With Three Modes)

The flashlight is surprisingly bright. It has three settings:

• Steady white light: Great for working under the hood at night
• Strobe mode: Acts as a warning light if you’re stuck on the side of the road
• SOS mode: Flashes a distress signal—useful in emergencies

I’ve used the strobe mode twice: once during a flat tire change at night, and once when my car broke down on a dark rural road. It made me feel much safer.

Compact Design and Portability

The unit is about the size of a thick novel and weighs just under 2 pounds. It comes with a zippered carrying case, so you can toss it in your glove box or trunk without worrying about damage. I keep mine in a small tote with my emergency kit—alongside a blanket, water, and first-aid supplies.

Bonus: Air Compressor (On Select Models)

Some versions of the Type S jump starter (especially those sold at Costco) come with a built-in 150 PSI air compressor. I have this version, and it’s been a lifesaver. I’ve used it to:

• Inflate a flat spare tire
• Top off low tires after a cold night
• Inflate a camping mattress

The compressor isn’t super fast (takes about 3 minutes to inflate a car tire from 20 to 35 PSI), but it’s quiet, reliable, and doesn’t require a separate power source. For under $100, having both a jump starter and air compressor is a steal.

Costco Price, Value, and Where to Buy

Let’s talk money. The Type S 12V Jump Starter is already competitively priced, but Costco makes it even better.

Current Pricing (As of 2024)

At my local Costco, the unit (with air compressor) is $89.99. That includes:

• Jump starter unit
• Smart clamps
• Wall charger
• Car charger
• Air compressor hose and adapters
• Carrying case
• User manual

Compare that to Amazon, where the same model sells for $109.99–$129.99, and you’re saving $20–$40. Plus, Costco often runs seasonal promotions—I’ve seen it drop to $79.99 during holiday sales.

Value Breakdown: Is It Worth It?

Let’s do the math. A single roadside assistance call costs $75–$150. A tow can be $100+. Jumper cables cost $20–$50, but only work if someone else helps you. A portable jump starter? One-time purchase, lasts 3–5 years, and works anytime, anywhere.

Here’s a quick value comparison:

Item	Average Cost	Pros	Cons
Type S 12V Jump Starter (Costco)	$89.99	Portable, safe, multi-function, no help needed	Requires charging, not for large diesel engines
Traditional Jumper Cables	$35	Cheap, lightweight	Needs another car, risky if misused
Roadside Assistance (1 call)	$100	Professional help	Waiting time, membership fees
Tow Truck	$120	Gets you home	Expensive, time-consuming

Even if you only use it once, it pays for itself. And if you use it multiple times? It’s a no-brainer.

Where to Find It (And How to Check Availability)

The Type S 12V Jump Starter is usually in the automotive section at Costco, near the batteries and car care products. It’s also available on Costco.com, but inventory varies by location. Pro tip: call your local warehouse or check the app to confirm it’s in stock before making a trip.

Bonus: Costco members can sometimes find it in the “Instant Savings” section—look for the yellow tags. I scored mine for $79.99 during a weekend sale.

Final Verdict: The Best Value Jump Starter for Everyday Drivers

After months of real-world use, I can say without hesitation: the Type S 12V Jump Starter from Costco is one of the best automotive purchases I’ve made. It’s reliable, safe, compact, and packed with features that go beyond just jump-starting.

Is it perfect? No. It won’t start a 10-ton diesel truck. It needs to be charged. And if you leave it in a hot trunk, it might degrade faster. But for 99% of drivers—commuters, road-trippers, parents, weekend warriors—it’s more than enough.

What I love most is the peace of mind. I no longer worry about being stranded. I don’t stress when I accidentally leave the dome light on. I even feel safer on long drives, knowing I have backup power and a flashlight if needed. And the fact that it’s under $90 at Costco? That’s just icing on the cake.

If you’ve ever been stuck with a dead battery, or just want to be prepared, I highly recommend picking one up. Keep it in your car, charge it every few months, and forget about it—until you need it. Because when you do, you’ll be glad it’s there. And who knows? Maybe you’ll end up saving a friend one day, just like mine did for me.

The Type S 12V Jump Starter isn’t just a tool. It’s a small investment in confidence, independence, and safety. And in my book, that’s worth every penny.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Type S 12V Jump Starter from Costco a good value?

The Type S 12V Jump Starter offers reliable performance at an affordable price, often bundled with accessories like jumper cables or USB ports. Its availability at Costco adds value through member-exclusive pricing and return policy benefits.

Can the Type S 12V Jump Starter handle larger vehicles like SUVs or trucks?

Yes, this jump starter is designed for 12V systems, making it suitable for most cars, SUVs, and light trucks. Just ensure your vehicle’s battery requirements match the unit’s peak current (typically 800A+).

Does Costco offer a warranty on the Type S Jump Starter?

Costco typically provides a 1-2 year manufacturer’s warranty on the Type S 12V Jump Starter, with the added advantage of their 90-day return policy for members. Always check the product listing for current terms.

Is the Type S Jump Starter easy to use for non-mechanical users?

Absolutely—it features clear LED indicators, spark-proof clamps, and simple one-button operation. The compact design makes it user-friendly for quick roadside emergencies.

Where can I find the best deal on a Type S 12V Jump Starter at Costco?

Costco’s in-store and online inventory varies, but members often get exclusive discounts or bundled kits (e.g., with carrying cases). Check their website for seasonal promotions or warehouse specials.

How does the Type S Jump Starter compare to other Costco portable jump starters?

The Type S 12V model stands out for its balance of power, portability, and price—often outperforming similarly priced competitors. Costco’s Kirkland Signature jump starters may offer higher specs, but Type S is a top budget-friendly choice.