Ask Honest John

Honest John Ask Honest John » Can you jump start a car via the cigarette lighter?

Can you jump start a car via the cigarette lighter?

I have seen a cigarette lighter plug in devices that claim to jump start cars within five minutes, do they work?

Asked on 14 October 2014 by loopy lupo

Answered by Honest John
That can only work if the lighter/accessory socket is hardwired directly to the battery. Some are. Some aren't.

Looking for a garage you can trust? Honest John's Good Garage Guide has thousands of reader recommended garages, plus how-to guides and tips on servicing.

The Good Garage Guide

How Can I Jump Start A Car?

Everything you need to know about how to safely jump-start a car, the equipment we recommend and where to buy it from.

How Can I Jump Start A Car?
Similar questions
A relative recently had to call a rescue service to start her car. She was told that jump starting, either the car to be started or the car used to start would damage computers and electronics featuring...
Is it possible to jump-start a car from an electric vehicle?
I'm thinking of buying a small, portable jump starter to keep in the glovebox just in case I get a flat battery. Is there a specific model or brand that you'd suggest looking at and how much should I pay?