can tesla jump start other cars

[DiMackenzie]

Yes, a Tesla can be used to jump-start another car with a traditional 12-volt battery, but it requires using the Tesla's own 12V auxiliary battery, not the high-voltage main battery pack. The process is very specific to avoid damage to either vehicle's sensitive electronics.

The crucial first step is to locate the Tesla's 12V battery terminals. In most models, these are under the front hood, often behind a removable panel. You then connect the jumper cables from these dedicated terminals to the dead battery in the other car. It is critical to never connect cables directly to the Tesla's main battery.

Here is a basic comparison of the power sources involved:

Feature	Tesla's 12V Auxiliary Battery	Tesla's High-Voltage Main Battery
Function	Powers lights, windows, computer systems	Powers the electric motor for driving
Voltage	12 Volts (like a regular car battery)	350-400 Volts (extremely dangerous)
Jump-Start Access	Yes, via specific under-hood terminals	No, absolutely not accessible or safe

The jump-start procedure is similar to a standard car, but with extra caution. After ensuring both cars are off, connect the positive (red) clamp to the 12V positive terminal in the Tesla, then to the positive terminal on the dead battery. Connect the negative (black) clamp to the 12V negative terminal in the Tesla, and then to an unpainted metal surface on the disabled car's engine block, away from the battery. Start the working Tesla, wait a minute, then attempt to start the other car. Always consult your Tesla owner's manual for model-specific instructions, as the location of the 12V terminals can vary. This method should only be used for gasoline or diesel cars; attempting to jump-start another electric vehicle is not recommended and could cause serious damage.

[VonHarley]

You can, but it's a bit of a hassle. You're not using the big battery that makes the car go; you're using a small 12-volt battery up front, just like in a regular car. The trick is finding the specific terminals under the hood—they're not out in the open. You have to follow the manual exactly. Messing up the wiring could lead to a very expensive repair bill for your Tesla's electronics. Honestly, for most people, calling roadside assistance or using a portable jump starter is a safer bet.

[DeMaggie]

As a Tesla owner who's looked into this, the answer is a cautious yes. The key is understanding that your car has two batteries. The massive lithium-ion pack under the floor is off-limits. Instead, you access the smaller 12V battery, typically hidden under a panel in the front trunk ("frunk"). The connection process is precise to protect the car's complex computer systems. I keep a portable jump starter in my frunk specifically to avoid this situation altogether. It's simpler and eliminates any risk of damaging my car while trying to help someone else.

[DeNadia]

Technically, yes, but it's not straightforward. Don't just pop the hood and look for a normal battery—it's not there. You need to locate the dedicated 12V jump-start terminals, which are often behind a plastic cover. The correct sequence for connecting the cables is also vital to prevent voltage spikes. My advice? Before you're ever in this situation, download the PDF of your Tesla's owner's manual and find the section on jump-starting. Save it on your phone. Knowing the exact steps beforehand is much better than trying to figure it out on the side of the road.

[Phyllis]

The procedure is possible but comes with important caveats. You are essentially using the Tesla as a stable power source for its own 12-volt system, which then helps crank the other car's engine. This works for jump-starting gasoline-powered vehicles. However, you should never attempt to use a Tesla to jump-start another electric vehicle. The charging systems are fundamentally different and such an attempt could cause catastrophic damage to both vehicles. For helping another EV, the only safe solution is professional roadside assistance or a flatbed tow to a proper charging station.