How do you jumpstart a push button ignition?
To jumpstart a push-button ignition, connect a live 12V battery to the dead car with jumper cables, run the donor car, and then start the dead car by pressing the push button while the brake is engaged.
In practice, this procedure mirrors jumpstarting a traditional keyed car, but you must account for where the battery sits in your push-button model (under the hood or in the trunk), any special start procedures the system requires, and the presence of the key fob. This guide provides a safe, up-to-date approach you can follow in most situations.
What you need
Before you begin, gather the essentials and review model-specific notes in your owner's manual. Having these items on hand helps ensure a smooth, safe jumpstart.
- A donor vehicle with a healthy 12V battery
- A pair of fully charged jumper cables rated for automotive use
- A portable jump starter (booster pack) as an alternative to a second vehicle
- The owner's manual for your vehicle (to confirm battery location and any push-button nuances)
- Safety gear such as gloves and eye protection (optional but recommended)
With these items ready, you can proceed to the step-by-step procedure described below.
Step-by-step jumpstart procedure for push-button ignition
Follow these steps in order and observe all safety precautions. If you encounter sparks, smoke, or a strong battery odor, discontinue the attempt and seek professional help.
- Park both vehicles in a safe, level area. Engage the parking brakes and set the transmission in Park (automatic) or Neutral (manual). Turn off all accessories and lights in both cars.
- Locate the jump points. In cars with a dedicated jump terminal under the hood, locate the positive post (usually marked +) and the negative post (usually marked −) or a designated jump point. If the battery sits in the trunk, check the manual for the exact jump points or remote terminals.
- Connect the red (positive) jumper clamp to the donor battery's positive post, then connect the other end of that red clamp to the recipient car's positive post or to the vehicle's designated jump post.
- Connect the black (negative) jumper clamp to the donor battery's negative post. Attach the other end to an unpainted metal ground point on the recipient car (such as a bracket or engine block away from the battery) to minimize the risk of sparks near the battery.
- Start the donor vehicle and let it run for a few minutes to build a charge in the recipient's battery.
- Attempt to start the recipient vehicle by pressing the push-button while pressing the brake pedal (the exact method may vary by model). If the engine doesn't start immediately, wait a few more minutes and try again. Do not crank for long durations repeatedly.
- Once the recipient starts, carefully remove the cables in reverse order: first the negative clamp from the recipient, then the negative clamp from the donor, then the positive clamp from the donor, and finally the positive clamp from the recipient.
- Leave the recipient running and drive or idle for at least 20–30 minutes to help recharge the battery. If possible, take a short drive to 60–80 mph? No, keep it simple: drive normally to recharge the battery.
- If the car fails to start after multiple attempts or keeps dying after you remove the cables, consult roadside assistance or a mechanic. Some vehicles with push-button start have immobilizer or fob-related quirks that may require additional steps.
Aftercare note: If your push-button model uses the key fob to authorize starting, ensure the fob battery is working or try holding the fob near the start button during the attempt, as some systems rely on the fob being detected to enable starting.
Summary
Jumpstarting a push-button ignition follows the same core principles as a traditional key-start: restore 12V power with a donor or booster, then start the car by engaging the push button with the brake. Know where your battery sits, follow proper cable polarity and grounding, and remove cables in the correct order. Always consult your owner’s manual for model-specific instructions and safety cautions, and seek professional help if starting remains unsuccessful.
