No, you cannot start a car using the cigarette lighter socket. The cigarette lighter, or more accurately the 12V accessory power outlet found in modern vehicles, is designed for low-power devices like phone chargers, tire inflators, or portable coolers. It is not wired to handle the massive electrical current required by the starter motor.
Attempting to use a device marketed as a "jump starter" through this outlet is ineffective and potentially dangerous. The starter motor needs hundreds of amps to crank the engine, while the fuse for the accessory circuit is typically rated for only 10 to 20 amps. Plugging a high-draw device into this circuit would instantly blow the fuse, protecting the wiring but leaving you without a solution.
The correct method for jump-starting a car involves connecting jumper cables directly from a donor battery to your car's dead battery. This creates a robust circuit capable of delivering the necessary power. For a safer, more convenient option, a portable lithium-ion jump starter pack is recommended. These compact devices connect directly to the battery terminals via heavy-duty clamps, bypassing the vehicle's fragile accessory circuits entirely.
| Component | Typical Power/Amperage | Function | Why It Can't Start a Car |
|---|
| 12V Accessory Outlet | 10-20 Amps (fused) | Powers small electronics | Fuse will blow instantly under high load |
| Starter Motor | 150-200+ Amps | Cranks the engine to start it | Requires a direct, high-capacity power source |
| Portable Jump Starter | 400-1000+ Peak Amps | Delivers starting power via clamps | Must connect to battery terminals, not the outlet |
| Jumper Cables | Varies by gauge | Transfers power from donor battery | Connects battery-to-battery, not through outlets |
In summary, the accessory outlet is for convenience, not critical functions like starting. Always refer to your vehicle's manual for the proper jump-starting procedure.
