To learn more yourself about the features you ought to be looking out for, have a look through our Buyer’s Guide. We’ve done all the research for you, and it’s all here in one easy to read article. Forget spending hours on Google!
And finally, should you find yourself with any remaining questions, concerns or worries, it may be worth looking at the set of Frequently Asked Questions, found at the end, where we’re providing answers to the most common customer queries.
Need A Jump Start Right Now? Here’s Our Top Pick:
In a hurry? This is our Winner!
Our Top Pick
9.4/10 Our Score
NOCO Boost XL GB50 1500 Amp 12-Volt
- For diesel engines up to 4 liters – start your car in seconds
- Weather-resistant, rough and tumble proof
- Lightweight, portable and fits in your glovebox
Jump Starters for Diesel – Top Model Compared
| Image | Product | Technical Spec | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
OUR TOP PICK  | NOCO Boost XL GB50 1500 Amp 12-Volt |
| Check Price On Amazon |
EDITOR’S CHOICE  | NOCO Boost HD GB70 UlstraSafe Portable Lithium Model |
| Check Price On Amazon |
BEST VALUE  | NOCO Boost Pro GB150 3000 Amp 12-Volt |
| Check Price On Amazon |
RUNNER UP  | UTRAI Jstar 4 Jump Starter |
| Check Price On Amazon |
RUNNER UP  | Clore Automotive Jump-N-Carry JNC770r Premium 12 Volt |
| Check Price On Amazon |
RUNNER UP  | SANROCK 2500A Peak Portable Model |
| Check Price On Amazon |
RUNNER UP  | MegaWise 2500A Peak 21800mAh Car Battery |
| Check Price On Amazon |
RUNNER UP  | Jump Starter, Crosstour JT240 Car Jump Starter |
| Check Price On Amazon |
RUNNER UP  | TACKLIFE T8 800A Peak 18000mAh Lithium Car Jump Starter |
| Check Price On Amazon |
Best Jump Starters for Diesel
1. OUR TOP PICK: NOCO Boost XL GB50 UltraSafe Portable Lithium Model
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Summary
NOCO have clearly mastered the art of jump starters, so we’d be remiss not to include a few from their line on our list, with the Boost XL GB50 being our number one choice this time around. Let’s talk about why!
For up to 4-liter diesel engines and 7-liter engines that run on gasoline, you can safely resurrect your car’s battery in just a couple of seconds, thanks to this small yet mighty machine, a 1500amp lithium pack that jumps up to 30 times on one charge!
It’s incredibly safe and straightforward to use, and you won’t need to worry about sparks or incorrect connections, as reverse polarity protection and spark-proof technology allows you to hook up to any 12-volt car battery worry free.
It is also a portable power bank with USB ports to charge your smart devices, and there’s even a built-in, tactical grade 200 lumen LED flashlight with seven modes, including SOS and emergency strobing.
Using their most advanced technology ever, NOCO implements high-discharge lithium technology, making this one safe to use even in adverse weather conditions, especially given its water-resistant, rugged casing.
Pros:
- For diesel engines up to 4 liters – start your car in seconds
- Weather-resistant, rough and tumble proof
- Lightweight, portable and fits in your glovebox
- Includes everything you need to jump start, right out of the box
- Customers report the included manual is very thick with tiny font
2. EDITOR’S CHOICE: NOCO Boost HD GB70 UlstraSafe Portable Lithium Model
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Summary
Bigger and better than its predecessor (the GB50 above), NOCO’s Boost HD GB70 jump starter is designed for use with larger engines, capable of resurrecting up to 8 liter gasoline and up to 6-liter diesel engines in just a couple of seconds. This is easily one of the best diesel jump starters available on the market today.
Offering up to 40 jump starts from a singular charge, packing 2000 amps of portable lithium power, this starter can connect up to any 12-volt car battery (within the limits of engine size) without a worry, thanks to their promise of a mistake-proof design.
With a casing that’s IP65 certified, water-resistant and rubberized, it’s hard-wearing and sturdy whilst remaining lightweight and compact. At under 5lb in total, you’ll have no trouble stowing it in your glove compartment or the trunk of your car.
High discharge lithium technology ensures you’ll be safe to operate this starter in any climate or condition, and a spark prevention system is in place to doubly protect you from any danger should you connect the wires improperly.
Included in box is everything you need to get your car going again, as well as a charging cable and microfiber storage bag to keep the pack safe. Designed in the USA and backed by a year’s warranty, you’re sure to be satisfied.
Pros:
- Immediately jump starts diesels with engines up to six liters
- Portable, strong and sturdy design, stows away easily
- Weather resistant with safety precaution technologies
- 1 year’s warranty, no questions asked
- USB charger is slow to replenish
3. BEST VALUE: NOCO Boost HD GB150 UltraSafe Portable Lithium Model
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Summary
Whilst it’s definitely the most expensive of the three NOCO products we’ve highlighted, the Boost HD GB150 is absolutely a worthwhile investment, able to deliver a jump start to diesel engines up to 7 liters and gasoline up to 9. Impressive!
Restart your car’s 12 volt battery in seconds with an almighty 4,000 amps of lithium ion power, which boasts a whopping 40 jumps on a single charge. Rest assured you’ll be safe every time thanks to reverse polarity protection and spark-proof tech.
Likewise, the high discharge lithium design utilized means there’s no worry about jump starting your car in difficult weather conditions, nor will you have any problems in an especially hot, cold or humid climate.
Created to withstand impact, the rugged over-molded rubberizedrefueling casing is IP65 rated and water-resistant, so it should stay in impeccable condition even after years of use. Operation is a breeze, too – no need to puzzle over a manual.
An integrated 500-lumen LED flashlight with emergency strobe and SOS modes, plus a USB port to charge your smartphone and other compatible devices, mean this bad boy is so much more than a jump starter. It’s the ideal car owner’s multi tool!
Pros:
- Everything you need to jump start your diesel (up to 7 liters) in one box
- It is also a flashlight and portable charger
- High discharge lithium ion battery with 4000 amps of power
- 12-volt, 15 amp outlet that powers 12 volt DC devices, e.g inverters/tire inflators
- Very pricey compared to other options we’ve chosen
4. RUNNER UP: TACKLIFE T8 800A
Summary
More budget friendly than the NOCOs, whilst still delivering a considerable amount of power, our next choice is the T8 from TACKLIFE, boasting 800amps of peak power for up to 30 jump starts to a diesel engine (up to 5.5 liters) on just one charge.
Heavy duty boulder cables and all-metal clamps with thickening grips are provided, allowing for the optimum connection between the jumper and your car’s battery, so you don’t have to worry about sparks or other safety issues.
An intelligent jumper cable with red/green indicator lights, the LCD screen and manual BOOST button make this one of the easiest jump starters on the market to operate, and thanks to 8 key safety features, safely connects with any car battery.
You’ll also notice 18,000 mAh capacity dual USB smart outputs, capable of quickly and safely fast charging your smartphone and other devices, whilst a 12 volt DC port likewise offers power to your other car accessories.
For wilderness enthusiasts or those afraid of getting lost on the road, there’s an also inbuilt compass and integrated LED flashlight with multiple light modes, including SOS and Emergency functions that will help you find your way back home.
Pros:
- Decently priced for up to 5.5 liter diesel engines
- USB and 12V AC ports for charging and powering your other devices
- High quality cables and rugged power pack, built to last
- 2 years worry-free replacement warranty
- Can be a little bulky in the case provided
5. RUNNER UP: UTRAI Battery For Cars, Trucks, SUV
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Summary
Able to bring diesel cars up to 7.5 liters back from the dead, this high rate polymer option from UTRAI is ideal for vehicles with a 12 volt battery, suitable for use with SUVS, trucks, vans, even motorcycles and snowmobiles. Pretty powerful stuff!
The inbuilt protection circuit works alongside intelligent alligator clamps, featuring eight different advanced safety precautions: remorse polarity, overload and short-circuit protection make it safe to use with peace of mind, even in difficult weather.
Dual USB-C quick charging ports and a cigarette lighter socket deliver power to your compatible devices, whilst an integrated flashlight and compass serve as great backup if you should break down at night or in an unfamiliar area.
Included with your purchase are the power pack, USB charging cable, smart jumper cable, cigarette lighter adapter and a storage bag for safekeeping, so you’ll find everything you need to keep in your glove compartment right outside the box.
A 30 day return service, 24/7 online support service promise and full 12 month warranty guarantee you’ll be satisfied with your product, but if you aren’t, it’s easy enough to come to a solution that suits you.
Pros:
- Suitable for use on diesel cars with engines up to 7.5 liters
- Safety features assure all-weather usage
- Intelligent jumper cable included
- Compass and flashlight built into power pack
- No screen – can be difficult to figure out at first
6. RUNNER UP: Clore Automotive Jump-N-Carry JNC770r Premium 12 Volt
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Summary
Thanks to patented PROFORMER battery technology, Clore Automotive promise that their Jump-N-Carry JNC770r will jump start most 12 volt car batteries, built to provide exceptional and extended cranking power for more jumps per charge.
A 68 inch heavy-gauge jumper cable is long enough to reach the starting point of even the largest vehicles, featuring all-new PowerJaw clamps that deliver maximum contact and power transfer, boasting dual-molded grip and 1000 amps of capacity.
Though it might be bigger and bulkier than other starters on our list, it still fits in your trunk with ease. An extra strength, rubberized bottom provides stability no matter where you put it down, so you can jump start even in rough conditions.
There’s even a fully automatic 3 amp charging system, so you can keep your unit completely charged and ready to go at all times, with an included quick charging cord that won’t take ours to supply the juice!
The digital feedback display shows the unit’s charge status and current battery level, whilst a high-intensity LED task light comes in handy when you need to jump start in the dark – and hopefully you don’t!
Pros:
- Powerful enough to restart (most) 12 volt car batteries
- Heavy duty, sturdy design
- Solid jumper cables with tough reinforced clips
- Dual USB ports for charging your smart devices
- Much bulkier than other models we’ve listed
7. RUNNER UP: SANROCK 2500A Peak Portable Model
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Summary
Promising to be both powerful and portable, this option from SANROCK is capable of jump starting 12 volt cars, SUVS, trucks and vans up to 30 times on a single charge, operating on 2500 amps of peak current.
Intelligent jumper cables feature more safety precautions than ever, keeping you protected from overload, too much and too little voltage, short circuiting and more – it’s even safe to use at especially high or low temperatures.
Uniquely designed, the four-in-one function of this system is simple to use, with an audible buzz and flashing lights to indicate incorrect use It also incorporates an LED flashlight for those unexpected late-night emergencies.
The upgraded quick charging system is efficient, providing dual USB charging ports compatible with most USB devices, refuelling them at double the speed of a standard outlet. Reassuring in an emergency if you find yourself with a dead cell!
A ballistic style carrying case is also included to keep this small but mighty unit protected in your glove compartment or underneath the driver’s seat. Got a problem? Just get in touch with customer service and they’ll respond in one working day.
Pros:
- Will jumpstart a diesel with an engine up to 8 liters
- More affordable than the NOCO HD GB150 despite outperforming
- Recharges your smart devices via dual quick-charge USB ports
- Includes intelligent jumper cable with plenty of safety features
- Can have a lengthy charge time according to a few customer reviews
8. RUNNER UP: MEGAWISE 2500A Peak 218000mAh
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Summary
It might only weigh 615 grams, but this choice from MEGAWISE is definitely mega and certainly packs a punch, jump starting a diesel with an engine up to 6.5 liters up to 30 times running on a single charge.
Having had an upgrade from earlier designs, high quality, gilded intelligent jumper cables provide an impeccable connection, with an inbuilt LCD screen proffering a voltmeter that registers the battery’s strength immediately.
Thanks to its compatibility with USB C charging, you can have this jump starter at full power again in a much shorter time than competing products, and the required cable is found in-box as part of your purchase.
The in-built USB charging port offers quick-charge functionality to bring your smart devices back from the dead that bit quicker, whilst the additional DC output can easily power a laptop or other car accessories you may need.
Also included is an ultra-bright LED flashlight with a trio of illumination modes: a solid beam to see in the dark, strobes to attract attention and SOS signal flashing if you find yourself in need of emergency assistance.
Pros:
- Resurrects diesel cars with engines up to 6.5 liters
- USB ports for charging your smart devices, and an in-built flashlight
- Upgraded jumper cables featuring an LCD voltmeter
- Charges more quickly than competing brands to ensure you’re always protected
- Some customer reviews suggest it appears cheaper in quality than other options on the market
9. RUNNER UP: Crosstour JT240
Summary
Last but certainly not least on our list is this powerful auto battery booster from Crosstour, capable of jump starting 12 volt batteries in diesel vehicles with engines up to 5.5 liters approximately 25 times before needing to recharge.
Highly reliable and efficient, the manufacturer has adopted a double protection design, utilizing four high capacity battery packs that supposedly revive your car at a much quicker rate than other alternatives on the market.
Useful design features include a light and sound indicator that audibly buzzes and flashes should you fail to connect correctly, whilst the included intelligent jump cables made from ABS V0 flame resistant materials ensure your constant safety.
It’s also multifunctional, serving as a portable power bank with a USB port that offers quick charging capability, whilst a built in LED light has three modes to keep you safe in the dark and help you attract attention if you ever need help.
A full year of warranty and 24/7 online customer support should assure you of this product’s quality, but in the event you’re dissatisfied with your product, obtaining a replacement or another resolution is easy enough.
Pros:
- Revives diesel cars with engines up to 5.5 liters
- Well designed with clever features that make operation a breeze
- USB ports charge your phone; flashlight for emergencies
- One year warranty and customer service 24/7 online
- With only five star reviews, we struggled to find a con for this one!
A few Things you Should Consider
Jump Starter: How It Works
To those who are uneducated, the idea of wrangling with one might sound really intimidating. In actuality, they’re very straightforward to use and the science behind them is simple enough to understand.
Where previously these devices could only be found in large and bulky designs, they’ve been slimmed down considerably in recent years, meaning they can be as small as a portable power bank and nestle easily into your glove box.
In layman’s terms, this simple yet effective little invention works by delivering a huge amount of power in a quick burst of time, kick-starting your dead battery the same way a human heart can be suddenly revived by a shot of adrenaline.
No longer will you need to summon a friend who drives and happens to be in the area (or willing to come and rescue you!) and mess around with humongous, easily tangled cables so they can hook their battery up to yours.
Even if you’re stuck in the middle of nowhere, you won’t need to call Triple A for a tow – you can depend on this little box you keep in your car, and provided it still has enough charge, you’ll kickstart your dead battery in seconds.
Simply attach your red alligator clip to the positive terminal (indicated by a little plus sign +) on your car’s battery, ensure everything is hooked up correctly, switch your jump starter on and away you go – the engine should roar to life!
Remember to turn off any of the bonus features, whether that be the USB charging ports or the LED flashlight (unless you’re using it to see, of course!) as otherwise you might not be able to devote enough power to reviving your car.
Bear in mind that, with poor quality starters, you’ll only have one or two chances to successfully jumpstart your car before it gives up and runs out of power itself. If you needed another reason to invest in a more expensive model, there it is.
Features To Consider
Vehicle Engine Size
Not all types are made equally. The more expensive they are, the greater power they’ll wield, and the more likely they are to power your engine. Some can only work with four liter engines, whilst others go all the way up to eight. Be sure to do your research: find out what size your car’s engine is – if you don’t know already! – and buy one with a capacity that matches. The manufacturer will usually state it clearly, as is the case with most of our choices. Should you want to go for a starter that doesn’t offer a clear indication, however, you could search through reviews from other customers to try and find out how much success you’ll have. Not powerful enough, and your battery will just stay dead!Portability
Yeah, it’s staying in your car, but you don’t want it to take up the whole of your floor, or your trunk, or wherever you want to keep it. The smaller and sleeker your device is, whilst still being able to generate enough power, the better. That doesn’t mean you should just go for the flimsiest option you see! An iPhone is impressive but it still smashes to smithereens with ease! You want a heavy-duty product that is built to withstand bumps and bangs when you’re on the road.Cable Quality
Sure, you could just buy some new ones, but that’s besides the point. You want one with a set of cables that are not just built to last, but operate at an optimum level and guarantee the best connection possible. After all, you are putting the fragile life of your car – its battery – in the metal jaws of these clips, so you want to make sure they’re going to be a help, not a hindrance. You want those cables to be reinforced and heavy duty, with gold plated/gilded clips. The thicker and sturdier, the better, as there is nothing worse than a flimsy cable. It should also be long enough to reach your car’s battery without any stretching or strain. The implementation of spark-proof technology is always a good sign, too!Safety Features
Opening up the hood of your vehicle to clip cables onto it doesn’t sound like the safest activity in the world, and you’d be right. Shoddy, poorly made equipment could cause you some real danger, especially when it comes to electrocution. You want one that takes plenty of precautions in its circuitry, keeping you safe from any potential voltage issues, whether that’s overload, underload or outright shorting – don’t overlook this, unless you want a unit that fries first time. Most manufacturers will do as much as they can to ensure your safety, so make sure you go for a starter that incorporates as many safety features as your budget can afford – it’s worth spending a little extra in the long run for that piece of mind.Additional Extras
It’s not necessary for the function of the jump starter, but it can make them infinitely more useful! For a product that you don’t want to use (who wants their battery to die?!), adding in a USB port makes it something you’ll whip out every day. Look for those with dual wield, fast-charging ports that will power up your phone and other smart devices much quicker than the standard 1.0 design. These will always prove useful in a pinch, especially if you’ve broken down! Likewise, one with a built in flashlight will not only be easier to use should you need it early in the morning or late at night, but it can also serve to attract the attention of help if you find yourself in an emergency situation.Will Premium Jump Starters for Diesel Engines also work for RV batteries during boondocking?
Certainly, jump starters of superior quality intended for diesel engines can also effectively power RV batteries in remote locations. However, it is essential to choose the best RV battery for boondocking to ensure a reliable energy source when you’re distant from traditional power options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are portable ones safe?
Whilst the product in general is safe to use – otherwise it wouldn’t be mass marketed! – that doesn’t mean it is without danger. Anything that involves electricity has an element of potential injury if you don’t operate correctly. Always follow manufacturer’s instructions and never attempt to override their safety features, as these have been included to keep you safe, and there are limits for a reason! Failure to do so could cause problems with your car, the starter, or you!Which battery do I jump on a diesel?
For the majority of diesel vehicles, the batteries have been installed to work in parallel, which means you can jump start by connecting to just one battery, this usually being the one that’s easiest to access. Once the engine has been started, the alternator can kick into gear and will begin to redeliver a charge back to both batteries, even if your vehicle remains idle. Simply put – just use the battery closest to you!How do you test it?
To test the function of one, you’re going to need a voltmeter. Some jumper cables, like those that come with the MEGAWISE starter we’ve listed above, have a built in voltmeter that will tell you whether the device is working or not. Otherwise, all you have to do is position your clamps so they’re apart, turn your voltmeter and the jump starter on, and measure at the clamps: a measure of 13.5 to 14.5 volts indicates that it has a full charge.Our Top Pick
9.4/10 Our Score
NOCO Boost XL GB50 1500 Amp 12-Volt
- For diesel engines up to 4 liters – start your car in seconds
- Weather-resistant, rough and tumble proof
- Lightweight, portable and fits in your glovebox
