Can You Jumpstart a Hybrid Car: The Ultimate Guide

If you’re asking yourself, “Can you jumpstart a hybrid car?” we’ve got the answers you need! You can get a dead hybrid car battery up again! However, it helps to fully understand what is under the hood and how they work together. This may differ by make and model at Toyota of Clermont. Lastly, always check what your manual states about these batteries. We’re “Making it Simple®” so you never have to wonder, “Can you jumpstart a hybrid car?”

Two Different Batteries Inside a Hybrid Car

First, hybrid car batteries have two separate batteries, and they operate and do things differently. So, if you’re asking yourself, “Can you jumpstart a hybrid car? The short answer is no.

12-Volt Battery

• The 12-volt car battery powers the computers, dashboard, locks, lights, and any relays. Also, its main job is to wake up your Clermont Toyota vehicle and close the contractors so that your car can turn on.

• In addition, this Clermont Toyota auto part is located in the trunk. However, many models provide a special jump terminal under the hood so you don’t have to reach the physical battery.

High-Voltage Hybrid (Traction) Battery

• Additionally, the purpose of the high-voltage hybrid (traction) battery is to feed the electric motors that move the car and work alongside the gasoline engine to power this car and improve fuel efficiency.

• Plus, this hybrid battery is located under the rear seat or in the back of the vehicle and sealed. There are typically orange-colored cables and warning labels, so if you see this, you know you’re getting close! This battery is never jump-started in the traditional sense with cords.

If your hybrid won’t start, it’s usually due to the 12-volt battery being discharged. So, if you’re asking yourself, “Can you jumpstart a hybrid car?” we hope you’re getting the answer you’re looking for!

Can You Jumpstart a Hybrid Car: Step-by-Step Instructions

If you’re asking yourself, “Can you jumpstart a hybrid car?” Toyota of Clermont has prepared a step-by-step guide for you. The goal is to give the 12-volt system enough power to trigger it into the “READY” mode.

Before You Start

• If you’re asking yourself, “Can you jumpstart a hybrid car?” then here are the basics you need to know!

• First, read the owner’s manual on how to jumpstart a hybrid car. This may differ from different makes and models. It might say there’s a special under-hood jump terminal and exact grounding points.

• Plus, be sure to use good cables that aren’t worn out. If you use thin and flimsy cables, they can overheat and might not work as well.

• Lastly, make sure that both vehicles are parked on a flat, safe surface with the parking brakes on and that everything is switched off.

Step 1: Locate the Connection Points

The first step when you’re asking yourself, “Can you jumpstart a hybrid car?” is to locate the connection points.

• Pop the hood of your Clermont Toyota vehicle.

• Next, find the positive jump terminal (usually under a red plastic cap in the fuse/relay box) and the recommended ground point. This part is typically a solid, unpainted metal part of the body and engine bay.

• Lastly, if the 12-volt battery is in the trunk, be sure to use the under-hood terminal if the owner’s manual tells you to.

Step 2: Connect the Cables in the Right Order

Next, when you’re asking yourself, “Can you jumpstart a hybrid car?” be sure to connect them in the right order.

• First, put the red clamp on the positive jump terminal on the Clermont Toyota hybrid.

• Next, place the red clamp on the positive terminal on the other car or jump pack.

• Then you should place the black clamp on the negative terminal on the other car or jump pack.

• Finally, bring the black clamp to the ground point on the Clermont Toyota hybrid (unpainted metal away from moving parts and fuel components). Be sure this isn’t on the positive terminal and not directly to the negative post of the 12-volt battery unless the manual states to do this.

Step 3: Energize and Wait Shortly

If you’re using another car, start the helper vehicle and let it sit idle for a few minutes to feed some charge into it. However, if you’re using a jump pack, turn it on (if it has a switch) and let it stay connected for 1-3 minutes before you try to start the Clermont Toyota hybrid vehicle.

Step 4: Turn the Hybrid “On”

When you’re asking yourself, “Can you jumpstart a hybrid car?” make sure it’s on.

• First, sit behind the wheel and press the brake pedal firmly. Next, press the start/power button as you normally would.

• Next, look for the “READY” light on the dashboard.

• The gasoline engine might not start immediately, but don’t worry!

Step 5: Remove the Cables in Reverse Order

When you’re asking yourself, “Can you jumpstart a hybrid car?” now you know the answer!

• Remove the black clamp from the hybrid ground point.

• Next, remove the black clamp from the helper vehicle or jump pack.

• Also, you’ll remove the red clamp from the helper vehicle or jump pack.

• Finally, remove the red clamp from the hybrid’s positive jump terminal.

Step 6: Let the Car Stay in READY: Can You Jumpstart a Hybrid Car?

• Be sure that you leave the car in READY for at least 20-30 minutes so the system can recharge the 12-volt battery.

• Next, avoid turning the car off right away. If the 12-volt battery is weak, it might not have enough charge to power up the computers next time.

• Lastly, if the Clermont Toyota hybrid car won’t go into READY mode, then you have a deeper problem.

Reasons Why You Can’t Jump the Hybrid (Traction) Battery

Hybrid vehicles are designed to work as a high-voltage system and aren’t designed to be “boosted” like a normal car battery. Below are some key reasons why you shouldn’t “jump” the hybrid pack.

• Dangerous Voltage Levels.

• Complex Battery Management.

• Fire and Damage Risk.

This is not a DIY situation you should find yourself in. If you need further help, stop by our dealership today!

Stop by Toyota of Clermont!

If you’re asking yourself, “Can you jumpstart a hybrid car?” we’ve got answers! Stop by Toyota of Clermont at 16851 State Road 50, just west of the Florida Turnpike. We’ll get you into the vehicle of your dreams!

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