The NOCO GB40 is a powerful and reliable jump starter that can boost your car’s battery with ease. Whether you’re stranded on the side of the road or in need of a quick jump at home, the NOCO GB40 offers a safe and efficient solution.
In this guide, we will walk you through how to use the NOCO GB40 to jump-start your car, along with some essential tips to ensure you get the most out of this portable device. Additionally, we will cover key safety precautions and troubleshooting advice to avoid any potential issues.
Best Jump Starters for Your Car: Top 3 Picks
When selecting the right jump starter, it’s crucial to consider reliability, battery capacity, and ease of use. While the NOCO GB40 is an excellent choice, there are other top products worth mentioning. Here are three highly-rated jump starters that will help you boost your car with confidence.
NOCO GB40 UltraSafe Lithium Jump Starter
The NOCO GB40 is a leading portable jump starter. With 1,000 amps of peak current, it can easily jump-start cars, trucks, motorcycles, and boats. Its compact design and powerful performance make it a top choice for those who need a reliable solution. I recommend this product for its excellent safety features, like spark-proof technology and reverse polarity protection, ensuring that even beginners can use it with confidence.
DBPOWER 800A Peak 18000mAh Car Jump Starter
The DBPOWER 800A Peak Jump Starter is another strong contender in the market. With 800 amps of peak power, it can jump-start a 12V vehicle up to 7.2L gas or 5.5L diesel engine. It’s not just a jump starter but also doubles as a power bank, which makes it perfect for emergencies. The large LCD screen displays important information, and the device includes built-in safety protections.
TACKLIFE T8 800A Peak Car Jump Starter
The TACKLIFE T8 offers 800A peak current and is designed to jump-start vehicles with up to 7.0L gas or 5.5L diesel engines. It’s equipped with a high capacity of 18,000mAh, which ensures multiple jump-starts before needing a recharge. Its durable construction and compact size make it ideal for everyday use. I recommend this product for its value for money and versatile features like an integrated LED flashlight and USB charging ports.
How to Use the NOCO GB40 to Jump-Start Your Car: A Step-by-Step Guide
Jump-starting your car with the NOCO GB40 is a simple process that can save you in an emergency. By following these steps, you can safely get your car back on the road without the need for professional assistance.
Step 1: Prepare Your Vehicle and the NOCO GB40
Before you begin, ensure that your car is parked in a safe location. Turn off all accessories such as lights, radio, and air conditioning, as this will reduce the load on the battery. The NOCO GB40 should also be fully charged before use. If it’s not charged, you can connect it to a wall outlet to ensure it has enough power.
Tip: If you have a battery tester or multimeter, check your car battery’s voltage to ensure it’s low enough to need a jump-start. A reading below 12V generally indicates a weak or dead battery.
Step 2: Connect the Jump Starter Cables to the NOCO GB40
The NOCO GB40 comes with two jumper cables – one red (positive) and one black (negative). It’s important to connect these cables to the correct terminals to avoid any damage or safety risks.
- Red (positive) clamp: Attach the red clamp to the positive terminal of the car battery. This terminal is typically marked with a “+” symbol.
- Black (negative) clamp: Attach the black clamp to a grounded metal part of your car (usually the engine block or a metal part of the frame). Never attach the negative clamp directly to the negative battery terminal to avoid the risk of sparks.
Step 3: Power On the NOCO GB40 and Start Your Vehicle
Once the cables are connected securely, turn on the NOCO GB40 by pressing the power button. The device will automatically detect the connection and indicate that it’s ready to jump-start your vehicle.
- Start Your Car: With the NOCO GB40 turned on, attempt to start your car as you normally would. You should hear the engine turn over after a few seconds of trying. If your car doesn’t start immediately, wait a few minutes and try again. The NOCO GB40 can handle multiple attempts.
Step 4: Disconnect the NOCO GB40 and Cables
Once your car is successfully started, it’s time to disconnect the NOCO GB40 and cables in the reverse order:
- First, remove the black (negative) clamp from the car’s ground.
- Then, remove the red (positive) clamp from the battery.
- Important: Never disconnect the cables while the engine is running to avoid causing a surge in the system.
Step 5: Allow Your Car to Run for a While
After your car starts, allow it to run for at least 15-20 minutes to ensure that the alternator has enough time to charge the battery. If you plan to drive, make sure the vehicle stays running during this time.
Tip: If your car battery has been weak for a while, it may need to be replaced soon. You can have it tested at an auto parts store to see if it still holds a charge.
Safety Tips When Using the NOCO GB40
Using the NOCO GB40 is relatively straightforward, but safety should always be your top priority. Here are some essential safety tips to ensure that your jump-starting experience is as smooth and safe as possible.
Check the Battery Condition First
Before using the NOCO GB40, always inspect your car battery. Look for any signs of corrosion around the terminals, which could affect the connection. Corrosion appears as a white, powdery substance around the terminals and can create a poor connection, making it harder for the jump starter to work.
Tip: If corrosion is present, clean the battery terminals using a mixture of baking soda and water before attempting to jump-start the vehicle. Dry the terminals thoroughly afterward.
Ensure Proper Cable Connections
When connecting the jump starter cables, make sure they are securely attached. A loose connection could prevent the NOCO GB40 from delivering power properly. Always double-check that the red (positive) cable is connected to the positive terminal, and the black (negative) cable is connected to a grounded metal part, not directly to the negative terminal of the car battery.
Caution: Never connect the negative clamp to the negative terminal of the battery when jump-starting, as this could lead to sparks and potentially cause an explosion in the battery.
Keep the NOCO GB40 Dry and Clean
The NOCO GB40 is designed to be portable and safe for use in various weather conditions. However, you should always ensure it remains dry and clean. Avoid using it in extremely wet environments or when the jump starter itself is wet. If the device gets wet, allow it to dry before using it again.
Tip: Store the NOCO GB40 in a dry and cool place when not in use, especially during extreme weather conditions.
Do Not Attempt to Jump-Start Damaged Batteries
If your car’s battery is visibly damaged (cracked, leaking, or swollen), do not attempt to jump-start the car with the NOCO GB40 or any other device. Damaged batteries pose significant risks, including acid leaks or explosions, and may not respond well to a jump start.
Important: In such cases, contact a professional mechanic to assess and replace the damaged battery.
Avoid Overheating the NOCO GB40
The NOCO GB40 is built to handle multiple jump-starts, but it’s important to give the device a break between uses. Overheating the device by performing continuous jump-starts without allowing it to cool down can reduce its lifespan and performance.
Tip: If you’re jump-starting multiple vehicles in a row, allow the NOCO GB40 to rest for 10-15 minutes between each use to prevent overheating.
Troubleshooting Common Issues with the NOCO GB40
While the NOCO GB40 is a highly reliable and efficient jump starter, you may occasionally encounter issues. Below are some common problems and how to troubleshoot them to ensure smooth operation.
The NOCO GB40 Won’t Power On
If the NOCO GB40 doesn’t turn on when you press the power button, there could be a few possible causes:
- Battery Charge Issue: The most common reason is that the NOCO GB40 battery is too low. Ensure that the device is fully charged before use.
Solution: Plug the NOCO GB40 into a power outlet and allow it to charge fully before attempting to use it again. The device typically takes around 3 hours to fully charge.
- Internal Safety Feature Activation: If the device’s internal safety systems (such as reverse polarity protection) detect an issue, the unit may not power on as a precaution.
Solution: Double-check your connections. Ensure the cables are properly attached, especially the polarity, to reset the internal safety features.
The Car Won’t Start After Connecting the NOCO GB40
If your car doesn’t start after following the proper jump-starting procedure, there are a few potential reasons for the failure:
- Incorrect Cable Connections: If the cables were not connected properly, the NOCO GB40 may not be able to provide the necessary power to the battery.
Solution: Double-check that the positive (red) cable is attached to the positive terminal of the car battery, and the negative (black) cable is connected to a metal ground point on the car’s frame.
- Car Battery Is Completely Dead: If your car’s battery is severely damaged or completely dead, it might not hold a charge, even with a jump start.
Solution: In this case, the battery may need to be replaced. Have it tested at an auto parts store or mechanic shop.
- NOCO GB40 Insufficient Power: If the NOCO GB40 is undercharged or has insufficient power to jump-start your car, it may not work.
Solution: Check the charge level of the NOCO GB40 and make sure it has enough power. If it is low, charge the jump starter fully before attempting to use it again.
The NOCO GB40 Emits a Beeping Sound or Flashes an Error Light
The NOCO GB40 has built-in safety features that can trigger an alert if something goes wrong. A beeping sound or flashing error light typically indicates an issue with the connection or the battery.
- Possible Causes: Incorrect cable connections, such as reverse polarity or trying to jump-start a vehicle with an extremely low battery, can trigger these alerts.
Solution: Ensure that the positive and negative cables are correctly attached, and that you are using the jump starter in the right conditions. Consult the user manual for the specific error codes if the light or beeping persists.
The NOCO GB40 Is Charging Slowly
If your NOCO GB40 seems to be charging at a slower rate than expected, it could be due to several factors:
- Faulty Charging Cable: The charging cable or adapter might be damaged, leading to slower charging.
Solution: Inspect the charging cable for any visible signs of wear or damage. Try using a different compatible charging cable and adapter if necessary.
- Charging Port Obstruction: Dust or dirt in the charging port could also slow down the charging process.
Solution: Clean the charging port with a soft brush or compressed air to remove any debris that may be blocking the connection.
How to Maintain the NOCO GB40 for Longevity
To get the most out of your NOCO GB40 and ensure it remains a reliable tool for jump-starting your car for years to come, regular maintenance and care are essential. Here are some important tips to help maintain the device and extend its lifespan.
Charge the NOCO GB40 Regularly
Even if you don’t need to use your NOCO GB40 frequently, it’s important to charge the device regularly. Lithium batteries, like the one in the NOCO GB40, perform best when kept between 50-75% charge. Leaving the battery completely drained or fully charged for prolonged periods can degrade its performance.
Tip: If you don’t plan on using the NOCO GB40 for an extended period, charge it to about 50% and store it in a cool, dry place. Charge it again every 3-4 months to keep the battery in good condition.
Store the NOCO GB40 in a Safe, Dry Place
Temperature extremes, both high and low, can negatively affect the lifespan of your NOCO GB40. Excessive heat can cause the internal components to overheat, while extreme cold can reduce the efficiency of the battery.
Tip: Store the NOCO GB40 in a cool, dry place, ideally at room temperature. Avoid leaving it in hot areas like a car in the sun or extremely cold spaces like an unheated garage.
Clean the Terminals and Connections Regularly
Dirt, dust, and corrosion can build up on the terminals of your NOCO GB40, potentially affecting the device’s performance. Regular cleaning is essential to maintain proper connections and ensure the jump starter works effectively.
Tip: Use a dry microfiber cloth to wipe down the NOCO GB40, especially the jumper cable connections. If you notice any corrosion on the clamps, gently clean them with a mixture of baking soda and water, followed by thorough drying.
Inspect the Cables and Clamps for Damage
Over time, the cables and clamps of the NOCO GB40 may wear out due to regular use. Frayed cables or damaged clamps could prevent the device from delivering power efficiently or safely.
Tip: Regularly inspect the cables for any visible signs of wear, cracking, or fraying. If you notice any damage, contact the manufacturer or retailer for a replacement part. Avoid using the jump starter if the cables are damaged, as this could cause sparks or short circuits.
Avoid Overloading the Device
The NOCO GB40 is capable of jump-starting a wide range of vehicles, but it’s important not to overwork the device. Using the jump starter continuously without allowing it to rest can cause overheating and shorten its lifespan.
Tip: After using the NOCO GB40 for multiple jump-starts, give the device time to cool down before using it again. This will help prevent damage and maintain its peak performance.
Conclusion
The NOCO GB40 is a powerful and reliable jump starter that can get your vehicle back on the road in minutes. By following the correct jump-starting procedure, ensuring proper cable connections, and adhering to essential safety tips, you can use the device effectively and avoid potential hazards.
Regular maintenance, such as charging the NOCO GB40 periodically, storing it in optimal conditions, and keeping its cables and clamps in good condition, will extend its lifespan and keep it ready for emergencies. Additionally, troubleshooting common issues ensures that you can quickly address any problems that may arise during use.
If you’re looking for a dependable, portable jump starter, the NOCO GB40 is an excellent choice. Keep it in your car as a backup, and you’ll never have to worry about a dead battery leaving you stranded again.
Frequently Asked Questions About How to Boost with NOCO GB40
How long does it take to charge the NOCO GB40?
The NOCO GB40 typically takes about 3 hours to fully charge using the provided charging cable and wall adapter. If you’re using it frequently, it’s important to keep the jump starter at least partially charged (around 50-75%) to maintain optimal battery health.
Can the NOCO GB40 jump-start vehicles with a dead battery?
Yes, the NOCO GB40 is designed to jump-start 12V vehicles with a dead or weak battery. It’s capable of starting cars, trucks, motorcycles, and boats with up to 1,000 amps of peak current. However, if the battery is severely damaged, the NOCO GB40 might not be able to start the vehicle.
Is it safe to use the NOCO GB40 in cold weather?
The NOCO GB40 can operate in temperatures as low as -4°F (-20°C). However, it’s important to store it in a place with a temperature between 32°F and 104°F (0°C and 40°C) to ensure the battery remains in good condition. Avoid using it in extreme cold for extended periods to prevent the internal battery from degrading.
Can I leave the NOCO GB40 plugged in to charge overnight?
While it’s safe to leave the NOCO GB40 plugged in overnight occasionally, it’s not recommended to do so on a regular basis. Charging for extended periods can reduce the battery’s overall lifespan. Ideally, charge the NOCO GB40 until it reaches 100%, then unplug it to avoid overcharging.
What happens if I connect the NOCO GB40 incorrectly?
If you connect the NOCO GB40 incorrectly, it will activate its internal safety features, such as reverse polarity protection, to prevent damage or injury. The device will not function until the cables are correctly connected. Always ensure the red (positive) clamp is connected to the positive terminal, and the black (negative) clamp is connected to a metal ground point.
How can I tell if the NOCO GB40 needs to be replaced?
If the NOCO GB40 is no longer able to charge fully, or if it frequently struggles to start vehicles despite being fully charged, it may be time for a replacement. If you notice any unusual behavior or failure to power on, contact NOCO customer support for guidance and possible repair or replacement.