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A jump start, or battery boost, sends power from another battery or a portable jump pack into your car’s battery so the engine can crank and start. Once the engine runs, the alternator takes over and begins recharging. It is one of the most common roadside calls, and when the battery is the only problem, it can get you moving without a tow.
Signs your battery is the problem
- You turn the key or press start and hear rapid clicking, or nothing at all.
- Dash lights are dim or flicker, or the interior light is faint.
- The engine cranks slowly and labors before stopping.
- You left lights or an accessory on, or the car sat unused for a long time.
If the engine cranks normally but won’t fire, the battery is probably fine and a jump start won’t help. Mention exactly what you hear so the provider can tell whether to send a boost or a tow.
When a jump start won’t be enough
A battery that is old, damaged or swollen may not hold a charge after a boost. If the car dies again soon after, the alternator or charging system may be at fault. In either case you will probably need a tow to a shop or a battery replacement. Ask whether the provider can test the battery or carry replacements, and say in your request that you may need a tow if the boost fails.
Electric and hybrid vehicles
Hybrids and EVs still have a small 12-volt battery that runs the computers, locks and lights. If it goes flat, the car may not “wake up” even though the main battery is charged. Many can be boosted at dedicated jump points described in the owner’s manual, but procedures vary, and some manufacturers warn against using the car to jump another vehicle. Tell the provider the exact model. Our EV and hybrid towing guide covers what to do if the car needs to be moved.
What affects the cost
A jump start is usually priced as a single service call, often affected by the time of day, how far the provider has to travel, and whether the car is somewhere hard to reach, such as a parking garage. A new battery, if you need one, is extra. Check whether your insurance or roadside membership covers the call first; our tow truck cost guide explains how those plans work.
What to have ready
- Your exact location, including the level and spot number in a garage.
- Year, make, model, and whether it is a hybrid or EV.
- Where the battery is, if you know (some are under a seat or in the trunk).
- Your keys or key fob, and whether the doors will unlock.
Safety tips
- Turn off lights, the radio and climate controls before the boost.
- Never jump a battery that is cracked, leaking or bulging, and keep sparks and flames away.
- If you jump the car yourself, follow your owner’s manual for the cable order and grounding point.
- After it starts, let the engine run or drive for a while so the battery can recharge, and avoid shutting it off right away.
Frequently asked questions
Clicking, dim lights or a slow crank usually point to a weak battery that a jump start may fix. If the engine cranks normally but won’t start, or the car dies again right after a boost, you probably need a tow or a mechanic.
EVs and hybrids have a 12-volt battery that can go flat and may be boosted at jump points listed in the owner’s manual. Procedures vary by model, so tell the provider exactly what you drive.
Connecting cables incorrectly or boosting a damaged battery can harm electronics or cause injury. Follow your owner’s manual or let a trained provider handle it.
Some roadside providers carry batteries and some do not. Ask when you request a quote, and confirm the price of the battery separately from the service call.
Stuck with a dead battery? Tell us where you are and what you drive, and we’ll pass your request to independent providers nearby.