Delivers dependable, high-output starts for large gas and diesel engines, with secure clamps and built-in safety when you’re stuck.
We may earn a small referral fee
A dead battery in a truck is rarely a small problem, especially in the cold or far from town. These jump starters are the ones worth keeping behind the seat for confident starts on big engines.
In-depth Reviews
NOCO Boost Pro GB150 UltraSafe Lithium Jump Starter
- Strong, repeatable starts on big engines
- Clamps bite well and stay put in tight bays
- Good safety protections for stressed, rushed hookups
- Heavier and bulkier than pocket-size options
- Pricey compared with entry-level lithium packs
NOCO Boost HD GB70 UltraSafe Lithium Jump Starter
- Portable enough for behind-the-seat storage
- Simple, confidence-building operation
- Strong performance for most light-duty trucks
- Not the best fit for the largest diesels
- Cables can feel short in awkward battery locations
Clore Automotive Jump-N-Carry JNC660 Jump Starter
- Dependable performance when stored and maintained
- Longer cables make real truck battery access easier
- Good option for frequent jump-starting at home or work
- Heavy compared with lithium packs
- Needs regular charging to stay at its best
HULKMAN Alpha 85S Lithium Jump Starter
- Compact and easy to store in-cab
- Good starting performance for typical truck needs
- User-friendly controls and indicators
- Not as confidence-inspiring as the highest-end units
- Clamp reach and cable length can be limiting
Clore Automotive Jump-N-Carry JNC1224 12V/24V Jump Starter
- Supports both 12V and 24V starting needs
- Built for heavy-duty, repeated use
- Strong cables and clamps for tougher access
- Large and heavy to move around
- Overkill for most personal pickup owners
Buying Guide
Quick Care Guide: Keep Your Jump Starter Ready for the Worst Day
Charge it on a schedule, not on a guess. The easiest habit is to plug it in when you do another monthly truck task, like checking tire pressure or topping washer fluid. If your jump starter lives in the truck full-time, treat extreme heat and cold as a reason to check it more often.
Set yourself up for clean clamp contact. Many “it didn’t work” moments come down to clamps grabbing corrosion, paint, or a flimsy bracket. Keep a small terminal brush or a bit of sandpaper in your glovebox, and do a quick scrape if the clamps cannot bite bare metal.
After the start, do not rush the recovery. Let the truck idle a bit before loading it up with accessories, and avoid shutting it off right away if you are only moving it across a lot. If your battery needed a jump, it is also a hint to test the battery and charging system soon, because the next no-start often comes faster than you expect.
💡 Editor’s Final Thoughts
Final Verdict: If you want one truck jump starter that covers the widest range of real-world situations, the NOCO Boost Pro GB150 is the top pick for its consistent starting power, strong safety features, and dependable clamp performance. For a lighter behind-the-seat option, the NOCO Boost HD GB70 delivers a great balance of portability and capability.
See also
Want your cab to feel fresh on long drives? Start with our picks for clean, not cloying air fresheners.
- Countertop ice makers that work great for road trips and tailgates
- Kids walkie talkies for camping weekends and caravan drives
- French bulldog beds that make road trips more comfortable
- Home espresso machines for cafe-level coffee before you hit the highway
Frequently Asked Questions ▾
How much power does a jump starter need for a truck?
Start by matching the jump starter to your engine type and size, then add a cushion for cold weather and older batteries. In real life, strong clamps and a stable internal battery matter as much as the headline rating. If you drive a diesel or tow often, it is smart to step up a tier so you are not maxing it out.
Is a lithium jump starter safe to keep in a truck year-round?
Generally, yes, as long as you store it out of direct sun and do not leave it baking on the dash. Extreme cold can reduce available power, so for winter, bring it inside overnight when temperatures dip hard. The best units also have built-in protections that reduce the chance of damage if you connect the clamps incorrectly.
What is the safest way to connect a jump starter?
Turn the vehicle off, then connect the positive clamp to the battery’s positive terminal and the negative clamp to the negative terminal or a solid chassis ground if your manual prefers that. Make sure the clamps are biting clean metal, not paint, corrosion, or loose hardware. Once it starts, disconnect in reverse order and let the truck run long enough to stabilize before shutting it off again.
Why does my jump starter say it is “ready,” but the truck still will not crank?
The most common issue is poor clamp contact, especially on side-post adapters, dirty terminals, or crowded battery trays. Reposition the clamps, clamp directly to the battery if possible, and make sure you are not clamping onto a thin bracket. If the battery is severely discharged or damaged, some trucks may still need a few minutes connected before they will crank.
How often should I recharge my jump starter if I never use it?
Top it off on a simple schedule instead of waiting for the indicator to drop. A monthly check is easy to remember, and it helps prevent that frustrating moment when the jump starter is dead too. Also recharge it after any jump, even if the indicator still looks fine.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases made through links on our site.