Can You Use a Hybrid Car to Jump-Start Another Car?
by Mark ValletHybrid cars offer a serious advantage over traditional vehicles when it comes to gas mileage. Their large hybrid batteries power the vehicle, while their additional 12-volt battery is enough to jump-start other cars.
Additional 12-Volt Battery
In addition to its large hybrid battery pack, a hybrid vehicle also has a regular 12-volt battery onboard. These batteries are typically located in the trunk, but the placement will vary depending on make and model. Positive and negative terminals are located under the hood.
Jump-Starting Other Cars
If the 12-volt battery in a hybrid vehicle is in working condition and charged it should easily jump-start another car. The terminals also allow the hybrid to be jump-started if necessary. The owner's manual should have instructions on where to find the positive and negative terminals.
Jump-Starting a Car
Using a hybrid to jump-start a vehicle is no different from using a regular car. Attach the positive or red lead to the positive terminal of the dead battery, and the other positive lead to the positive terminal of the good battery. Follow the same procedure for the negative leads. Let the vehicle idle, charging the dead battery. The dead battery should start after 15 minutes of charging.
References
Writer Bio
Mark Vallet is a a stay-at-home dad who began freelance writing in 2009. He has produced online content for Demand Studios, Autos.com and CarsDirect.com. He has traveled extensively within the U.S. and internationally. Vallet holds a Bachelor of Arts in English literature from the University of Iowa.
