Can You Jumpstart an EV? Essential Guide

No, you cannot jumpstart an electric vehicle (EV) in the traditional sense like you would a gasoline car. EVs do not have a 12-volt lead-acid battery that needs jumpstarting. Instead, they rely on a large high-voltage battery pack. While the 12-volt battery in an EV can become depleted, it’s typically charged by the main high-voltage battery and doesn’t require external jumpstarting.

Hey there! If you’re new to the world of electric vehicles, or perhaps considering making the switch, you might have some questions. One that pops up quite often is about jumpstarting. It’s a common procedure for gasoline cars, so it’s natural to wonder if the same applies to EVs. Don’t worry, it’s a simpler process than you might think, and we’re here to walk you through it step-by-step. Let’s clear up any confusion and get you feeling confident about your EV!

Understanding the Difference: EVs vs. Gasoline Cars

It’s easy to get confused when transitioning from a traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle to an electric vehicle. The core technologies are fundamentally different, and that includes how they start and what powers them. When we talk about “jumpstarting” a car, we’re usually referring to the process of using jumper cables to transfer power from a working car battery to a dead battery in another car. This is necessary for gasoline cars because their starter motor and onboard electronics are powered by a relatively small 12-volt lead-acid battery.

Electric vehicles, on the other hand, operate on a completely different principle. Their primary power source is a large, high-voltage battery pack – often ranging from 400 to 800 volts – that directly powers the electric motor. This high-voltage system is what gives EVs their impressive acceleration and range. However, EVs also have a smaller, conventional 12-volt battery. This 12-volt battery is crucial for powering essential vehicle systems like the lights, infotainment system, door locks, and importantly, the systems that manage the high-voltage battery and initiate the vehicle’s “ready” state.

The key takeaway here is that the massive high-voltage battery in an EV is not directly involved in the traditional jumpstarting process. If your EV won’t “start” (meaning it won’t power up or become ready to drive), it’s usually because the small 12-volt battery has run down, or there’s an issue with the systems that manage the high-voltage battery. It’s a common misconception that the entire EV needs a jumpstart, but the reality is more nuanced and, thankfully, often less complicated.

The Role of the 12-Volt Battery in an EV

Even though the big battery is what makes an EV go, that little 12-volt battery is still incredibly important. Think of it as the “brain” or the “ignition switch” for the electric vehicle. Without a healthy 12-volt battery, the car’s computers can’t communicate with the high-voltage system, the contactors (which connect the high-voltage battery to the powertrain) won’t engage, and the car simply won’t power up or drive.

So, why does this 12-volt battery sometimes die? Several reasons can contribute to this:

• Leaving accessories on: Just like in a gasoline car, leaving lights, the radio, or other accessories on for extended periods without the car running can drain the 12-volt battery.
• Infrequent use: If an EV sits for a very long time without being driven or charged, the 12-volt battery can naturally lose its charge due to parasitic drain (the small amount of power that electronics draw even when the car is off).
• Age and condition: Like any car battery, the 12-volt battery has a lifespan. If it’s old or has been subjected to extreme temperatures, it might not hold a charge as effectively.
• Faulty charging system: In some rare cases, the system that charges the 12-volt battery from the main high-voltage battery might malfunction, preventing it from getting topped up.

When the 12-volt battery in an EV is depleted, the car will likely display a warning message, and you won’t be able to “start” it. This is where the confusion with traditional jumpstarting often arises. The good news is that the solution often involves a similar concept: providing a temporary source of power to the 12-volt system.

Can You Jumpstart an EV? The Nuance

Here’s the direct answer, with a bit of clarification: You cannot jumpstart an EV using the traditional method of connecting jumper cables from another car’s battery directly to the EV’s high-voltage battery. This would be extremely dangerous and could damage both vehicles.

However, you can provide power to the EV’s 12-volt battery to get it back into a state where it can manage its own charging and systems. This is often what people mean when they ask if an EV can be jumpstarted.

The process involves accessing the 12-volt battery in the EV and connecting a power source to it. This power source can be:

• A portable jump starter pack: These are compact battery packs designed to provide a 12-volt power boost. This is the most common and recommended method for EV owners.
• Another vehicle’s 12-volt battery: Yes, you can use jumper cables from a working gasoline or another electric vehicle, but you connect them to the EV’s 12-volt battery terminals, not the high-voltage system.

It’s crucial to understand that this process is solely about reviving the 12-volt system. Once the 12-volt battery has enough power, the EV’s internal systems will take over, and it will begin managing its main high-voltage battery, allowing you to drive the car. The EV’s main battery is not being directly charged by the other vehicle; it’s just giving the 12-volt system the “wake-up call” it needs.

How to “Jumpstart” Your EV’s 12-Volt Battery: A Step-by-Step Guide

Before you begin, always consult your EV’s owner’s manual. Specific procedures and the location of the 12-volt battery terminals can vary significantly between manufacturers and models. Safety first!

What You’ll Need:

• A portable jump starter pack: Ensure it’s rated for 12-volt systems.
• OR: Jumper cables: Standard automotive jumper cables.
• Your EV’s owner’s manual: Essential for locating the correct terminals.
• Safety glasses and gloves: Always a good idea when working with batteries.

Steps:

1. Locate the 12-Volt Battery Terminals: This is the most critical step and where your owner’s manual is indispensable. In many EVs, the 12-volt battery is located in the front trunk (frunk) or under a hood panel. Some manufacturers have designated jump points or terminals under the hood, even if the battery itself is elsewhere. These are specifically designed for this purpose. Look for positive (+) and negative (-) markings.
2. Prepare the Power Source:
   • If using a portable jump starter: Ensure it’s fully charged. Turn it off before connecting.
   • If using another vehicle: Park the donor vehicle close enough for the jumper cables to reach, but ensure the vehicles are not touching. Turn off the donor vehicle’s engine and all accessories.
3. Connect the Jumper Cables/Jump Starter:
   • Connect the positive (+) clamp/red cable from the jump starter or donor vehicle to the positive (+) terminal or jump point on your EV.
   • Connect the negative (-) clamp/black cable from the jump starter or donor vehicle to the negative (-) terminal or jump point on your EV. Some manuals may advise connecting the negative cable to a metal ground point on the chassis away from the battery, which is generally a safer practice to avoid potential sparks near the battery.
4. Power Up the Jump Starter / Start the Donor Vehicle:
   • If using a portable jump starter: Turn it on. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific unit. You might see indicator lights confirming the connection.
   • If using another vehicle: Start the donor vehicle’s engine. Let it run for a few minutes to allow it to charge your EV’s 12-volt battery.
5. Wait and Check Your EV: Give it a few minutes. You should see the dashboard lights come on, or you might hear the vehicle’s system powering up. Your EV’s display might indicate that it’s now ready to drive or that the main battery is charging the 12-volt system.
6. Disconnect the Cables/Jump Starter: Once your EV’s systems are active and showing signs of life, carefully disconnect the cables or jump starter in the reverse order of connection:
   • Disconnect the negative (-) clamp/cable first.
   • Disconnect the positive (+) clamp/cable second.
7. Drive Your EV: Immediately after disconnecting, try to drive your EV. This will allow the EV’s own systems to fully charge its 12-volt battery from the main high-voltage battery. It’s recommended to drive for at least 15-30 minutes to ensure the 12-volt battery is sufficiently replenished.

Important Note: If your EV still doesn’t power up after attempting this, or if you’re unsure about any step, do not hesitate to contact your EV manufacturer’s roadside assistance or a qualified EV technician. Trying to force the process can lead to damage.

Why You Should Use a Portable Jump Starter

While using jumper cables from another car is possible, using a dedicated portable jump starter pack is often the preferred and safer method for EVs. Here’s why:

Pros of Portable Jump Starters for EVs:

• Self-Sufficiency: You don’t need to rely on another vehicle being available.
• Safety: Designed specifically for this purpose, they often have built-in safety features like spark-proof clamps, reverse polarity protection, and over-current protection, which are crucial when dealing with the sensitive electronics of an EV.
• Convenience: They are compact and can be stored in your EV, ready for use.
• No Risk to Other Vehicles: You avoid any potential issues with the donor vehicle’s electrical system.

Cons of Portable Jump Starters for EVs:

• Initial Cost: You need to purchase the device.
• Requires Charging: The jump starter itself needs to be kept charged.

The investment in a good quality portable jump starter is a small price to pay for the peace of mind and convenience it offers EV owners. You can find reliable models from reputable brands online and at automotive stores.

What if My EV’s Main Battery is Depleted?

This is a different scenario altogether. If your EV runs out of charge in its main high-voltage battery (i.e., you can’t drive it because the battery is empty, not because the 12-volt system won’t power up), you cannot “jumpstart” it in any way. An EV with a depleted high-voltage battery needs to be towed to a charging station or a location where it can be connected to a charger.

Running out of charge, often referred to as “bricking” an EV, is uncommon with modern battery management systems. Most EVs will warn you when the battery is critically low and will limit power to conserve energy, allowing you to reach a charging point. If you do find yourself with a completely depleted high-voltage battery, you will need to arrange for a tow truck. Ensure the tow truck operator is aware it’s an electric vehicle, as they require specific towing procedures to prevent damage to the drivetrain.

For more information on EV charging and range anxiety, check out resources from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy:

Electric Vehicle Charging Overview

Common EV Battery Issues and Preventative Measures

While the “jumpstart” scenario usually relates to the 12-volt battery, it’s worth touching on general battery health for EVs. Both the 12-volt and the high-voltage battery systems benefit from good practices.

Preventing 12-Volt Battery Drain:

• Avoid leaving accessories on: Be mindful of lights, infotainment, and charging ports when the vehicle is off.
• Regularly drive or charge: If you don’t drive your EV for weeks on end, connect it to a charger periodically to keep the 12-volt battery topped up. Many EVs have systems that manage this automatically, but long periods of inactivity can still be a factor.
• Check for parasitic drain: If you suspect a constant drain, have your EV serviced to identify the source.

Maintaining High-Voltage Battery Health:

The large high-voltage battery is designed for longevity, but certain practices can help maximize its lifespan:

• Avoid extreme charging habits: While DC fast charging is convenient, relying on it exclusively can put more stress on the battery than slower AC charging.
• Avoid extreme state-of-charge: Try not to consistently leave your EV at 100% charge or let it drop to 0% for extended periods. Many EVs have charge limiters to help with this.
• Protect from extreme temperatures: Both very hot and very cold temperatures can affect battery performance and longevity. Park in a garage or shaded area when possible.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provides excellent resources on electric vehicle technology and maintenance:

Electric Vehicle Basics

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I use jumper cables from a gasoline car to jumpstart my EV?

Yes, but only to connect to your EV’s 12-volt battery terminals, not the high-voltage system. The process is about reviving the 12-volt system, which then allows the EV’s main battery to power the car.

Q2: Where is the 12-volt battery in my EV?

This varies by manufacturer. It’s commonly located in the front trunk (frunk) or under the hood. Always refer to your owner’s manual for the exact location and any designated jump points.

Q3: What happens if my EV’s main battery runs out of charge?

If the high-voltage battery is depleted, you cannot jumpstart it. The vehicle will need to be towed to a charging station. Modern EVs usually have robust systems to prevent complete depletion and will warn you well in advance.

Q4: How long should I let a donor car run to charge my EV’s 12-volt battery?

Allow the donor car to run for at least 5-10 minutes before attempting to start your EV. This gives the 12-volt battery enough of a boost to power up the EV’s systems.

Q5: Can I jumpstart an EV with another EV?

Yes, you can use jumper cables from another EV to jumpstart your EV’s 12-volt battery. The process is the same as using a gasoline car – connect to the 12-volt terminals only.

Q6: What is the risk of damaging my EV if I try to jumpstart it incorrectly?

Connecting jumper cables to the high-voltage battery or incorrectly to the 12-volt system can cause severe damage to the vehicle’s electronics, the battery management system, or even the high-voltage battery itself. Always follow your owner’s manual and safety guidelines.

Q7: Should I charge my EV after jumpstarting its 12-volt battery?

Absolutely. After successfully jumpstarting the 12-volt battery and powering up the EV, you should drive it for at least 15-30 minutes. This allows the EV’s internal charging system to replenish the 12-volt battery from the main high-voltage battery.

Conclusion

Navigating the world of electric vehicles can bring up new questions, and understanding how to handle a depleted 12-volt battery is a common one. The key takeaway is that while you can’t “jumpstart” an EV in the same way you would a gasoline car by directly powering the main drive battery, you can provide a jump to its essential 12