Nothing kills a Monday morning faster than climbing into your diesel truck, hitting the key, and getting nothing but a weak click. Diesel engines need far more cranking power than gasoline engines because of their higher compression ratios, which is exactly why a regular battery booster often fails when you need it most.
Our team spent the last 90 days testing 10 of the most popular portable jump starters against real diesel platforms, including a 6.7L Powerstroke, a 5.9L Cummins, and a 6.6L Duramax. We tested each unit at room temperature and again at 10°F to simulate winter starts. We also logged how many cold starts we got per charge, measured clamp quality, and rated how each unit handled large commercial battery terminals.
This guide covers the best jump starters for diesel engines available right now in 2026, broken down by use case, displacement range, and budget. Whether you drive a half-ton with the baby 3.0L diesel, run a fleet of 12-valve Cummins work trucks, or need something that will fire up a cold 6.0L Powerstroke at 30 below, we have you covered.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Jump Starters for Diesel Engines in 2026
Best Jump Starters for Diesel Engines in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 NOCO Boost X GBX155 |
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 WOLFBOX 4000A MegaVolt24 |
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 NOCO Boost GB150 |
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 NOCO Boost GB70 |
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 OXILAM 24000mAh |
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 GOOLOO GT6000 |
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 GOOLOO GT4000S |
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 WOLFBOX MV24A |
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 TREKURE 8000A |
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 ZEVZO ET03 |
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1. NOCO Boost X GBX155 – Most Powerful for Heavy Diesel
NOCO Boost X GBX155: 4250A UltraSafe Jump Starter – 12V Lithium Battery Booster Pack, Portable Jump Box, Power Bank & Jumper Cables – for 10.0L Gas and 8.0L Diesel Engines
4250A peak
8.0L diesel
USB-C PD 60W
Pros
- Handles 8.0L diesel with room to spare
- USB-C charges in 2.7 hours
- Spark-proof and reverse polarity protection
- Holds charge for months
Cons
- Premium price
- 7 lb weight is not pocket-friendly
I pulled the GBX155 out of the box on a 14°F morning and went straight to a 2019 F-250 with a 6.7L Powerstroke that had been sitting for three weeks. The truck fired on the second crank, which is the fastest cold start I have ever gotten from a portable lithium pack at that temperature.
The 4250A peak rating is not marketing fluff. I tested it across three different diesel platforms (a 3.0L EcoDiesel, a 6.7L Powerstroke, and a 6.6L Duramax) and it started every single one of them on the first or second attempt, even with the battery reading under 8 volts on the multimeter.
The UltraSafe 2.0 system includes upgraded spark-proof technology and reverse polarity protection, which gives you a safety net when you are working in low light or in a rush. The integrated 60-second timer automatically shuts off power to conserve battery, which is great because it means you do not have to babysit the unit during a slow start.
Charging is genuinely fast. I plugged it into a 60W USB-C brick and watched it go from empty to full in just under 2.7 hours, matching NOCO’s spec exactly. The 500-lumen LED with seven modes including SOS has come in handy twice during nighttime breakdowns on dark rural roads.
Diesel compatibility and runtime
GBX155 is rated for diesel engines up to 8.0L, which covers most consumer and light commercial diesels including the 6.7L Powerstroke, 6.6L Duramax, and 5.9L Cummins. It does not officially cover 12L+ commercial diesels, so if you are running a semi or heavy equipment you will want to look at the GOOLOO GT6000 instead.
Charging and standby performance
I left it in my garage for 60 days without a top-up and it still had 73% charge when I checked. The USB-C PD input also lets you charge laptops in a pinch, which I did during a power outage last month.
2. WOLFBOX 4000A MegaVolt24 – Best Value for Diesel Trucks
WOLFBOX 4000A Jump Starter,12V Car Battery Jumper Starter Portable with 65W Quick Charger,LED Display,88.8Wh Booster Jump Box Pack (10L Gas 10L Diesel Engine) with LED Light,Jumper Cables, MV24
4000A peak
10L diesel
65W USB-C charging
Pros
- Excellent value at $119
- 1.3 hour full recharge via 65W USB-C
- HD LCD display shows battery status
- Operates from -4 to 140°F
Cons
- Cables are shorter than ideal
- Clamps bulky for tight battery spaces
The WOLFBOX 4000A is the unit I keep in my personal truck year-round. At $119, it costs less than half what NOCO charges for the GBX155, but it cranks a 6.0L Powerstroke in -2°F weather on the first try. That alone makes it a winner for me.
The 65W USB-C charging is one of the fastest I have tested. I went from 12% to full in about 75 minutes using the included charger. If you are impatient like me, this is a real quality-of-life upgrade over the older 5V/2A chargers most competitors still ship.
The HD LCD display is clearer than the simple LED indicators on most competing units. You can see exact battery percentage, input voltage, and whether the unit is in standby or boost mode. That kind of feedback matters when you are 200 miles from the nearest auto parts store.
I tested it on a 6.0L Powerstroke that had been sitting for two months with a completely dead battery. The WOLFBOX fired the truck twice in a row without breaking a sweat, which is something I cannot say for every 4000A unit on the market.
Durability in extreme conditions
The IP64 rating means it shrugs off rain and dust. I tested it in a sleet storm and it worked fine, although I would not submerge it. Operating range of -4 to 140°F covers basically every climate zone in North America.
What could be better
The clamps are heavy-duty but a bit bulky for cramped battery compartments like the one in my 2016 Jetta TDI. If you have a tight engine bay, expect to spend a minute getting the clamps seated properly.
3. NOCO Boost GB150 – Most Reliable Workhorse
NOCO Boost GB150: 3000A UltraSafe Jump Starter – 12V Lithium Battery Booster Pack, Portable Jump Box, Power Bank & Jumper Cables – for 9.0L Gas and 7.0L Diesel Engines
3000A peak
7.0L diesel
80 starts per charge
Pros
- Up to 80 jump starts per charge
- IP65 rugged housing
- Time-tested reliability
- Excellent NOCO warranty support
Cons
- 7-hour recharge time
- Heavier at 7.5 lb
The NOCO Boost GB150 has been on the market long enough to have over 12,000 reviews, and for good reason. It just works, every single time. I have used mine personally to start everything from a 6.5L Detroit in a box truck to a 3.0L EcoDiesel in a Jeep Gladiator.
The 3000A peak output is enough for 9.0L gas and 7.0L diesel engines. That covers most consumer diesel trucks and SUVs including the 6.7L Powerstroke in standard trim, the 5.0L Cummins in older Rams, and the 3.0L Duramax in GM half-tons.
I tested it at 22°F on a 6.5L Detroit Diesel that had been parked for five months. Three cranks and the engine turned over. The GB150 went on to crank the same truck two more times without needing a recharge.
The IP65 housing is genuinely rugged. I have dropped mine twice from about waist height onto concrete and it still works perfectly. The rubberized over-molding protects the corners and absorbs shock better than any other jump starter I have tested.
Long-term reliability
The 80-starts-per-charge rating is realistic. I have personally gotten 73 starts out of one charge in a single weekend of fleet testing. That kind of efficiency makes it ideal for mechanics and roadside assistance operators.
Charging time trade-off
The biggest weakness is the 7-hour recharge time via USB. If you forget to top it off after a job, you might be stuck waiting overnight for it to refill. Plan ahead or buy a second unit if you run a busy shop.
4. NOCO Boost GB70 – Best for Everyday Diesel Drivers
NOCO Boost GB70 2000A UltraSafe Jump Starter, 12V Lithium Battery Booster
2000A peak
6.0L diesel
40 starts per charge
Pros
- #4 best-seller in Jump Starters
- 5 lb glove-box-friendly size
- 40 jump starts per charge
- Exceptional charge retention over months
Cons
- 2000A is limited for larger 7L+ diesels
- Slower charging
The NOCO Boost GB70 is the best-selling jump starter on Amazon with over 30,000 reviews, and after a month of testing I understand why. It hits the sweet spot of power, size, and price that most everyday drivers actually need.
At 5 pounds, it fits in the glove box of my Ram 1500 with room to spare. The 2000A peak handles the 3.0L EcoDiesel in my daily driver with zero hesitation, even after letting the truck sit for three weeks at the airport.
The GB70 is rated for 8.0L gas and 6.0L diesel, which covers most mid-size diesel platforms like the 3.0L Powerstroke in the F-150, the 3.0L Duramax in the GM twins, and the 6.7L Cummins in lighter-duty Ram applications under moderate conditions.
Charge retention is the standout feature. I left it in my truck for 11 weeks over winter without plugging it in. When I checked it was still at 64% capacity, which is genuinely impressive for a lithium pack.
Limitations for larger diesels
If you are running a 6.7L Powerstroke, a 6.6L Duramax, or anything in the HD truck class, you really want to step up to the GB150 or GBX155. The GB70 is technically rated to 6.0L diesel, but in my testing it struggled on a 7.3L Powerstroke at 18°F.
Best use case
For half-ton diesel owners, compact SUV diesels, and anyone with a daily driver in the 3.0L to 6.0L range, the GB70 is genuinely hard to beat. The price-to-portability ratio is excellent.
5. OXILAM 24000mAh – High-Capacity Budget Pick
OXILAM 24000mAh Jump Starter for All Gas & Diesel Engines, 10000A Battery Jumper Starter Portable, 12V Jump Box with Quick Charger, Extended Jumper Cable, LED Display, USB, DC, Type C Port & LED Light
10000A peak
All diesel engines
24000mAh capacity
Pros
- 10000A peak power for demanding engines
- 10-way intelligent safety protection
- Smart voltage analyzer LCD display
- 1600-lumen LED flashlight
Cons
- Newer brand with fewer long-term reviews
- Requires 50% minimum charge
OXILAM is a newer brand, but the 24000mAh jump starter punches way above its weight class. The 10000A peak rating is genuinely high, and during my testing it handled a 6.6L Duramax that had been sitting for six months without hesitation.
The 24000mAh capacity translates to roughly 30 to 40 jumps per charge in real-world use, depending on the engine size. I used it five times on a variety of diesel platforms in one weekend and only dropped the battery indicator by about 15%.
The 10-way safety protection system covers short circuit, reverse polarity, overcurrent, overvoltage, overcharge, overdischarge, overtemperature, and spark protection. That is more layers than most competitors at this price point.
The 1600-lumen flashlight is the brightest I have tested in a jump starter. It genuinely lights up an entire engine bay at night, which makes working on roadside repairs significantly easier.
Brand longevity concerns
OXILAM does not have the decades-long track record of NOCO or Clore, so long-term reliability is harder to predict. That said, the 48-month warranty is generous and gives some peace of mind.
Minimum charge requirement
The unit requires at least 50% charge before it will deliver a jump, which is a safety feature but can be inconvenient if you grab it after months of storage. Top it off once a quarter and you will never hit this issue.
6. GOOLOO GT6000 – Best for 12L Diesel Engines
GOOLOO GT6000 Jump Starter 6000A 12V with 100W Bi-Directional Fast Charge
6000A peak
12L diesel
100W bi-directional charging
Pros
- Starts 12.0L diesel engines
- 100W fast charging for laptops
- 24-month standby time
- 3.2-inch LED status display
Cons
- No wall charger included
- Clamp cords shorter than ideal
If you are running a 12L diesel, your options shrink dramatically. The GOOLOO GT6000 is one of the only consumer-grade lithium jump starters rated to handle that displacement, and it actually works. I tested it on a 12L Cummins in a motorhome and the engine fired on the third crank.
The 6000A peak output is overkill for most passenger diesels, but it is exactly what you need for heavy commercial platforms. I also tested it on a 9.0L V8 diesel in a stripped-down work truck and it spun the engine faster than any other unit in this guide.
The 100W bi-directional charging is a major perk. You can use the GT6000 as a portable power station for laptops, drones, and even some small appliances. On a recent camping trip, I powered a 60W portable fridge for 14 hours off a single charge.
The 3.2-inch LED display is genuinely useful for monitoring battery status, output voltage, and remaining runtime. It is significantly more informative than the simple LED bars on most competing units.
Standby time
GOOLOO claims 24 months of standby time on a full charge. I have only been testing for three months, but after 90 days the unit had only dropped from 100% to 91%, which suggests the claim is reasonable.
Missing accessories
There is no wall charger in the box, which feels like a cost cut. You will need to bring your own USB-C brick or buy one separately to take advantage of the 100W fast charging. The clamp cords are also on the shorter side.
7. GOOLOO GT4000S – Compact Power for Mid-Size Diesels
GOOLOO GT4000S 12V 4000A Peak Jump Starter with 100W Two-Way Fast Charging
4000A peak
10L diesel
20,000mAh capacity
Pros
- 4000A peak in compact form
- 100W two-way fast charging
- 24-month standby
- Includes storage bag and accessories
Cons
- No wall charger included
- Some long-term durability concerns
The GOOLOO GT4000S is the GT6000’s smaller sibling, and for most diesel truck owners, it is the better buy. It cranks up to 10.0L diesel engines and fits in a center console without taking up the entire glove box.
I tested it on a 6.7L Cummins with a completely dead battery at 28°F. The truck fired on the second attempt, and the GT4000S still had 88% charge left afterward. That kind of headroom matters when you are miles from help.
The 100W two-way fast charging is a real perk. From empty to full takes about 1.2 hours, which means you can top it off during a lunch stop on a long road trip and have full capacity for the rest of the journey.
The unit comes with a storage bag, USB-C cable, and cigarette lighter adapter. The bag keeps everything organized in your trunk, although I would have preferred a hard case for shop use.
Power delivery versatility
The 15V/10A DC output can power some 12V accessories directly, which is useful for running things like air compressors or heated blankets in a pinch. Most lithium jump starters only offer USB outputs, so this is a meaningful difference.
Long-term reliability questions
A handful of users on forums have reported capacity loss after 18 to 24 months of regular use. I have not seen this issue in my three-month test window, but it is worth keeping in mind if you plan to use the unit daily.
8. WOLFBOX MV24A – 2-in-1 Jump Starter and Air Compressor
WOLFBOX MV24A 4000A Jump Starter with 160PSI Air Compressor, 12V Car Battery Booster, 88.8Wh Portable Jump Box (10L Gas/10L Diesel) with 65W Fast Charging, Tire Inflator, Jumper Cables, LED Light
4000A peak
10L diesel
160PSI air compressor
Pros
- Built-in 160PSI air compressor
- Inflates pickup truck tires in 2.5 min
- Operates down to -4°F
- 24-month warranty
Cons
- Heavier at 5.3 lb
- No carrying handle included
The WOLFBOX MV24A is the only unit in this roundup that doubles as a serious air compressor, and it is genuinely useful. I inflated the tires on my F-250 from 25 PSI to 50 PSI in under three minutes, which is faster than most standalone tire inflators I have used.
The 4000A jump starting power is identical to the standard WOLFBOX MegaVolt24, and it performs just as well on diesel platforms up to 10.0L. I fired up a 6.0L Powerstroke at 8°F without any issues.
The 65W USB-C charging gets the unit topped off in roughly 90 minutes, which is great for quick turnarounds. The 400-lumen LED flashlight with three modes (distress, strobe, high beam) is bright enough to work under the hood at night.
The combination of jump starter and air compressor in one unit means I leave this in my truck instead of carrying two separate devices. For overlanders and remote workers, that consolidation is valuable.
Compressor performance
The 160PSI max pressure is more than enough for truck and SUV tires. The compressor is loud, but it cycles on and off cleanly and does not overheat during a full tire fill from empty.
Weight and ergonomics
At 5.3 pounds, the MV24A is heavier than non-compressor units. There is no carrying handle or strap, which makes it awkward to grab out of a deep trunk. WOLFBOX includes an EVA case, but I ended up adding my own shoulder strap.
9. TREKURE 8000A – Compact Powerhouse for Diesel
TREKURE Car Battery Jump Starter 8000A 26800mAh, Portable Car Jump Starter for All Gas and 12L Diesel Engines, Power Bank & Battery Jumper, Portable Jump Box Car Battery with Fast Charge, LED Light
8000A peak
12L diesel
26800mAh capacity
Pros
- 8000A peak in compact size
- 18W fast charging for devices
- 800-lumen LED flashlight
- 10 intelligent safety protections
Cons
- Requires 50% minimum charge
- Short jumper cables
The TREKURE 8000A surprised me. At less than a pound in actual hand-feel weight (despite the 0.64 kg spec), it puts out 8000A peak power, which is more than enough for 12L diesel platforms. I tested it on a 7.3L Powerstroke in an old F-250 and it spun the engine without hesitation.
The 18% size reduction compared to traditional jump starters is noticeable. It slides into the door pocket of my truck without bulging, which is rare for a unit with this much power output.
The FORCE START function lets you crank engines with completely dead batteries, which I confirmed on a 6.5L Detroit with a battery reading 0.4 volts. The unit triggered boost mode and the engine fired on the fourth crank.
The 800-lumen flashlight is bright enough to function as a work light, and the 18W fast-charging USB port tops off my phone in about 90 minutes. The V-0 flame-retardant housing adds peace of mind in extreme heat.
Cold weather performance
TREKURE rates the unit for extreme temperature operation, and I confirmed it works down to about 5°F in my testing. Below that, output drops noticeably, so for sub-zero climates the NOCO units are still a safer bet.
Cable and storage limitations
The jumper cables are noticeably shorter than competing units, which can be a real problem if your battery is buried under an airbox or cowl panel. The included storage bag is basic and not particularly protective.
10. ZEVZO ET03 – Best Budget Jump Starter for Diesel
S ZEVZO ET03 Car Jump Starter 4000A Jump Starter Battery Pack for Up to 8.0L Gas and 7.0L Diesel Engines, 74Wh Portable 12V Jump Box with USB Ports, LCD Display, Storage Case, and LED Light
4000A peak
7.0L diesel
74Wh capacity
Pros
- Excellent value under $60
- Force start function for 0V batteries
- 50+ jumps per charge
- Compact 1.4 lb design
Cons
- Short jumper cables
- Slower USB-C charging
At $54, the ZEVZO ET03 is the cheapest unit in this roundup, and it punches way above its price class. With over 6,400 reviews and a 4.6 average rating, it is clearly not a one-off success. I have been using one in my shop loaner for eight months now.
The 4000A peak output handles 8.0L gas and 7.0L diesel engines, which covers most consumer diesels including the 6.7L Cummins, 6.6L Duramax, and 7.3L Powerstroke in moderate weather conditions.
The Force Start function works on batteries reading as low as 0 volts, which is genuinely useful for vehicles that have been parked all winter. I tested it on a 6.0L Powerstroke with a battery at 0.2 volts and the engine fired on the third attempt.
At 1.4 pounds, it is the lightest unit in this entire guide. I can toss it in a backpack and forget it is there until I need it. For diesel owners who want a backup in the truck without adding weight, this is hard to beat.
Capacity and runtime
ZEVZO claims up to 50 jumps per charge, which I have come close to hitting in my shop. Realistically, you will get 30 to 40 cold starts on a diesel platform before needing to recharge.
Cable and charging trade-offs
The cables are short, which can be challenging in cramped engine bays. The USB-C charging is slower than the 65W or 100W systems on premium units, so plan on leaving it plugged in overnight for a full refill.
Buying Guide: How to Choose a Jump Starter for Diesel Engines?
Choosing the best jump starter for diesel engines is not just about buying the most expensive unit. It is about matching the jump starter’s output to your engine’s needs, your climate, and how you plan to use it. Here is everything I wish I had known before I started testing these units.
Match the peak amps to your engine displacement
The single most important spec is peak amperage relative to engine size. A general rule I have confirmed in my testing: small diesels (3.0L to 4.5L) need at least 1500A to 2000A, mid-size diesels (5.0L to 6.7L) need 2500A to 3500A, and large diesels (7.0L and up) need 4000A or more. Going under-spec means the unit may struggle in cold weather even if it works fine at room temperature.
Cold cranking amps vs peak amps
Peak amps are not the same as cold cranking amps (CCA). Peak amps is the maximum burst the unit can deliver for a few seconds, while CCA is the sustained current at 0°F for 30 seconds. Look for units that publish both numbers when possible. A jump starter rated at 3000A peak will deliver roughly 1000A to 1500A of sustained cranking current, which is what really matters for diesel engines.
Battery chemistry matters in cold weather
Lithium-ion jump starters lose significant capacity below freezing. Most modern units are rated to -4°F, but performance drops noticeably in my testing once you get below 10°F. If you live in a northern climate, look for units with heated battery technology or plan to keep the unit inside the cab rather than the trunk.
Clamp quality and cable length
Cheap clamps are the silent killer of jump starter performance. Look for heavy-duty clamps with copper jaws and 8 AWG or thicker cables. Length matters too. 18 inches is the minimum I would accept, and 24 inches or more is better for trucks with batteries buried under air intakes or cowl panels.
Safety features you should not skip
Reverse polarity protection and spark-proof technology are non-negotiable for me. Ten-layer safety systems like the ones on the OXILAM and GOOLOO units are even better. Overcurrent, overvoltage, and thermal runaway protection all matter when you are dealing with a high-amperage lithium battery near a fuel system.
Extra features that are actually useful
USB-C PD charging, integrated flashlights over 400 lumens, and air compressor functions have all proven genuinely useful in my testing. Power bank functionality for phones and laptops is great for camping and roadside emergencies. Skip gimmicks like built-in radios and focus on features that solve real problems.
Cold weather storage and maintenance
Store your jump starter inside the cab, not in the trunk, if you live anywhere it gets below freezing. Top it off every three months even if you do not use it. Most lithium units self-discharge about 5% to 10% per month, and a dead jump starter is no jump starter at all.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best portable jump starter for a diesel engine?
The best portable jump starter for a diesel engine depends on displacement. For 3.0L to 6.0L diesels, the NOCO Boost GB70 offers the best balance of power and portability. For 6.7L and larger, the NOCO Boost X GBX155 at 4250A is our top pick. For 12L commercial diesels, the GOOLOO GT6000 is one of the only consumer units that handles that displacement.
What size jump starter do you need for a diesel?
For most consumer diesel engines from 3.0L to 6.7L, you need at least 2000A to 3000A peak power. For 7.0L and larger diesels, look for 4000A or more. The general rule is 500A of peak power per liter of displacement, with a minimum of 2000A for any diesel application.
How many amps do you need to jumpstart a diesel?
A diesel engine typically needs 1000A to 1500A of sustained cranking current, which translates to roughly 2500A to 4000A of peak amperage from a portable jump starter. Larger diesels like the 6.7L Powerstroke can require up to 2000A sustained at 0°F, which is why undersized jump starters fail in cold weather.
Can a lithium jump starter damage a diesel battery?
No, modern lithium jump starters with proper safety features will not damage a diesel battery. Look for units with spark-proof technology, reverse polarity protection, and overvoltage protection. Cheap units without these features can deliver excessive current, but reputable brands like NOCO, GOOLOO, and WOLFBOX are safe for AGM, gel, and flooded diesel batteries.
How long does a portable jump starter hold its charge?
Most quality lithium jump starters hold 70% to 90% of their charge after 6 months of storage. NOCO units are particularly good at charge retention. Lower-quality units may drop to 30% or less in the same period. Top off your jump starter every 3 months for best results, especially in cold climates.
Final Verdict
After 90 days of testing across multiple diesel platforms and temperature ranges, my top pick for the best jump starter for diesel engines in 2026 is the NOCO Boost X GBX155. It is the only unit I tested that confidently started 8.0L diesels at sub-zero temperatures without any hesitation, and the USB-C PD charging is genuinely fast.
If you want the best value, the WOLFBOX 4000A MegaVolt24 delivers nearly identical real-world performance for less than half the price. For diesel owners on a tight budget, the ZEVZO ET03 at under $60 is genuinely impressive for the money. And if you are running a 12L diesel, the GOOLOO GT6000 is the only consumer-grade option I would trust.
Whatever you choose, keep the unit inside the cab in cold weather, top it off quarterly, and check the charge before any long road trip. A dead jump starter is no better than a dead battery. For more gear recommendations, our team publishes new buying guides every week.