How to Jump-Start an Automatic Car (No Push-Start Needed)

You turn the key, or press the start button—and nothing. No crank. Just silence. If you're driving a manual car, you might consider rolling it down a hill and bump-starting it. But with an automatic? That's not an option.

Don't worry. You can absolutely jump start automatic cars—you just need the right method. In this guide, we'll show you two safe, proven ways to do it: with a portable jump starter or with jumper cables and another vehicle.

Still driving a manual or want all the options? See 5 Proven Ways to Start a Car When the Battery Is Dead.

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Can You Jumpstart an Automatic Car? The Short Answer

Yes, you can jumpstart automatic cars. The process works exactly the same as a manual—connect power to the battery, and the starter motor cranks the engine. The only difference is that you cannot push-start an automatic, so you'll need either a jump starter or jumper cables.

Jump starting works on all automatic transmission types: traditional torque converter automatics, CVTs, dual-clutch automatics (DCT), and automated manuals. The transmission type doesn't affect the electrical system.

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Why You Can't Push-Start an Automatic Car

Push starting (also called bump starting or roll starting) only works in manual transmission vehicles. Here's why it fails on automatics:

A manual transmission creates a direct mechanical link between the wheels and engine through the clutch. When you pop the clutch while rolling, that mechanical connection forces the engine to turn over.

Automatic transmissions use a torque converter instead of a clutch. This fluid coupling provides no mechanical connection when the engine is off. No matter how fast you push or roll an automatic car, the wheels spin freely without engaging the engine.

Think of it like trying to pedal a bicycle that's not connected to its chain. You can move the wheels, but nothing else happens.

Bottom line: If your automatic car has a dead battery, you need external power—either from a jump starter or another vehicle's battery.

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Method 1: Use a Portable Jump Starter (Fastest Option)

A portable jump starter is the safest, fastest, and most convenient way to restart a dead automatic car. You don't need another vehicle, and the entire process takes under 5 minutes.

What You'll Need

• Portable jump starter (fully charged)
• Access to your battery or jump-start terminals

How to Jump Start Automatic Cars: Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Confirm the jump starter is charged. Check the battery indicator shows at least 50% charge. A fully charged unit is ideal.
2. Turn off all accessories. Switch off headlights, radio, and air conditioning to reduce electrical load.
3. Open the hood and locate the battery. Some vehicles have the battery in the boot—look for remote jump-start terminals under the hood instead.
4. Attach the red clamp to positive (+). Connect firmly to the battery's positive terminal (marked with + and usually a red cover).
5. Attach the black clamp to a ground point. Connect to a solid, unpainted metal part of the engine block or chassis—NOT the negative battery terminal. This prevents sparking near the battery.
6. Turn on the jump starter. Press the power button. Wait for the indicator to confirm correct polarity (usually a green light).
7. Start the car. Turn the key or press the start button. The engine should crank and start within seconds.
8. Disconnect in reverse order. Remove the black clamp first, then the red clamp.
9. Let the engine run for 15-20 minutes. This allows the alternator to recharge the battery. Driving is even better than idling.

Why This Method Works Best

Modern portable jump starters deliver a surge of current directly to your starter motor. Quality units include multiple safety features:

• Reverse polarity protection – Prevents damage if you connect the clamps incorrectly
• Spark-proof clamps – Eliminates sparking during connection
• Short-circuit shutoff – Stops power flow if the cables touch
• Over-temperature protection – Prevents overheating during heavy use

The Boost N' Inflate delivers 2,000 peak amps—enough to start petrol engines up to 8.0L and diesel engines up to 6.5L. It also includes a 150 PSI tyre inflator, USB charging ports, and an LED emergency light.

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Method 2: Use Jumper Cables and Another Vehicle

If you don't have a portable jump starter, jumper cables connected to another running vehicle will get your automatic car started.

What You'll Need

• Jumper cables (at least 3 metres long)
• A second vehicle with a charged battery

How to Jumpstart an Automatic Car with Jumper Cables: Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Position both vehicles close together. The batteries should be within reach of the jumper cables, but the cars must not touch.
2. Turn off both engines. Put both cars in Park and engage the parking brake.
3. Connect red clamp to dead battery (+). Attach one red clamp to the positive terminal of your dead battery.
4. Connect other red clamp to donor battery (+). Attach the other end to the positive terminal of the working car's battery.
5. Connect black clamp to donor battery (-). Attach one black clamp to the negative terminal of the working battery.
6. Connect other black clamp to ground on dead car. Attach to an unpainted metal bolt or bracket on the engine block—NOT the negative battery terminal.
7. Start the donor car. Let it run for 2-5 minutes to charge your dead battery.
8. Start the dead car. Turn the key or press the button. It should start. If not, wait another few minutes.
9. Disconnect cables in reverse order. Black from dead car first, then black from donor car, then red from donor car, then red from dead car.
10. Run the engine for 15-20 minutes. This recharges the battery. Take it for a drive if possible.

Critical Safety Tips

• Never let clamps touch each other during or after connection—this causes sparks and can damage electronics.
• Always remove the ground clamp first when disconnecting (black from dead car).
• Never connect to hybrid or electric vehicle batteries unless the manufacturer specifically allows it.
• If the battery is cracked, leaking, or frozen, do not attempt to jump start—call for professional help.

Prefer using a battery charger instead? Here's How to Jump Start Your Car with a Battery Charger.

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What to Do After Jump Starting Your Automatic Car

Getting the engine started is only half the job. Follow these steps to ensure the battery recharges properly:

1. Let the engine run for at least 15-20 minutes. The alternator needs time to restore charge to the battery.
2. Drive if possible. The alternator charges more efficiently at higher RPMs. A 20-minute drive on the highway is ideal.
3. Turn off unnecessary accessories. Keep air conditioning, heated seats, and the stereo off until the battery has recovered.
4. Test the battery later. If the car struggles to start the next day, the battery may no longer hold a charge and needs replacement.

Having trouble diagnosing the issue? You may be dealing with a faulty starter motor instead.

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What If Jump Starting Doesn't Work?

If your automatic car still won't start after jump starting, several issues could be at play:

1. The Battery Is Too Far Gone

Batteries that have been completely discharged for extended periods, or have reached the end of their lifespan (typically 3-5 years), may not accept a charge. Sulphation—a buildup of lead sulphate crystals—can permanently damage the cells.

Solution: Replace the battery. Most auto parts stores offer free battery testing.

2. Poor Clamp Contact

Corroded or dirty battery terminals prevent proper power transfer. Even a thin layer of oxidation creates resistance.

Solution: Clean the terminals with a wire brush or terminal cleaner. Ensure clamps grip firmly on clean metal.

3. Starter Motor Failure

If you hear a clicking sound but the engine doesn't crank, the starter motor may have failed. This is an electrical/mechanical issue unrelated to the battery.

Solution: Have a mechanic inspect and replace the starter motor.

4. Blown Fuse or Relay

A blown main fuse or faulty ignition relay can prevent the starter from receiving power even with a charged battery.

Solution: Check your fuse box for blown fuses. Consult your owner's manual for fuse locations.

5. Immobiliser or Security Issue

If your key fob battery is dead, the immobiliser may not recognise the key and prevent starting.

Solution: Try holding the key fob directly against the start button, or replace the fob battery.

If none of these solutions work, it's time to call roadside assistance or a mobile mechanic.

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Preventative Tips: Avoid Dead Battery Problems

A little maintenance goes a long way toward preventing dead battery emergencies:

• Check your battery annually. Most auto shops offer free battery testing. Replace batteries older than 4-5 years proactively.
• Clean terminals regularly. Remove corrosion with a wire brush and apply dielectric grease to prevent future buildup.
• Avoid short trips. Short drives don't give the alternator enough time to recharge the battery. Take longer drives occasionally.
• Turn off accessories when parked. Leaving headlights, interior lights, or USB chargers running drains the battery.
• Keep a jump starter in your vehicle. A charged portable jump starter means you're never stranded.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Final Thoughts

You can't push-start an automatic car, but you can absolutely jump-start one—and it takes less than five minutes if you have the right tools.

A portable jump starter is your best bet for speed, safety, and independence. Keeping one in your glovebox could turn a stressful situation into a two-minute inconvenience.

When your car won't start, don't panic. Just pop the hood, clamp up correctly, and give it the power it needs to get going again.

Not sure which solution suits your lifestyle? Check out the Top Car Battery Chargers Reviewed or browse our complete jump starter collection.