Everstart 1200A Jump Starter

As a car enthusiast and someone who’s spent countless hours tinkering under the hood, I’ve had my fair share of dead battery experiences. Some happened in my garage, but others—well, let’s just say I’ve stood on the side of countless roads, in various weather conditions, wondering how my day was about to get even longer. That was until I discovered what I now consider an essential piece of equipment for any vehicle owner: the Everstart 1200A Jump Starter. After using it consistently for over a year, I’m convinced this compact powerhouse deserves more attention than it gets. So I decided to put together this comprehensive guide based on my personal experience and countless hours of research.

Understanding the Basics: What Exactly Is the Everstart 1200A Jump Starter?

Before diving into the nitty-gritty, let’s clarify what we’re talking about here. The Everstart 1200A Jump Starter is essentially a portable power bank on steroids. But unlike the slim device charging your phone, this robust unit packs enough punch to bring a dead vehicle battery back to life. The 1200A in its name refers to its peak amperage—the maximum current it can deliver in short bursts to jump-start your vehicle.

When I first held this device, I was genuinely surprised by its compact size relative to its capabilities. Coming from someone who used to lug around traditional jumper cables and hope for a good Samaritan with a running vehicle, this self-contained solution felt like discovering fire for the first time.

The Everstart isn’t just a one-trick pony, though. Beyond its primary function as a jump starter, it serves as a multi-purpose emergency tool that can charge electronic devices, provide emergency lighting, and in some models, even inflate tires. It’s like having a miniature roadside assistance crew tucked away in your glove compartment or trunk.

The Full Spectrum: What Can the Everstart 1200A Actually Do?

The primary function is obvious—it jump-starts dead vehicle batteries. But understanding the scope of its capabilities requires digging deeper:

Jump-Starting Capabilities

The 1200A peak current is substantial enough to start most consumer vehicles with ease. During my testing, I’ve successfully jump-started:

• My own 5.7L V8 truck (multiple times during a particularly cold winter)
• My wife’s 4-cylinder sedan
• My neighbor’s diesel pickup (yes, it handles diesel engines admirably!)
• A friend’s completely dead motorcycle battery
• Even a small tractor at my father-in-law’s farm

The versatility impressed me, especially considering its relatively compact size. Where traditional jumper cables require another vehicle, the Everstart stands alone, providing independence that’s invaluable when you’re stranded in isolated areas.

Power Bank Functionality

Beyond emergencies, I’ve found myself regularly using the USB ports to charge devices during camping trips, power outages, and even regular workdays when I forgot my regular charger. The unit features:

• 2.1A USB output that charges smartphones surprisingly quickly
• Multiple USB ports for charging several devices simultaneously
• Enough capacity to charge a typical smartphone 8-10 times from empty

Additional Features

Depending on your specific model (as there are slight variations), you might also enjoy:

• A built-in LED flashlight with multiple modes (steady, strobe, SOS)
• An LCD display showing battery percentage and charging status
• Short circuit protection
• Reverse polarity protection (which saved me once when I absentmindedly reversed the connections)

Some premium models include a built-in air compressor, though my standard version doesn’t have this feature. I’ve occasionally wished for it when dealing with slightly deflated tires, but the core jump-starting functionality remains the most critical aspect.

How Do You Actually Use This Thing? A Step-by-Step Guide

The first time I needed to use the Everstart in an actual emergency, I was thankful for its intuitive design. Here’s the process I follow, refined after multiple uses:

1. Retrieve the jump starter from your storage location (ideally kept at 50-70% charge at minimum)
2. Position it securely near the vehicle’s battery, but not directly on top of it
3. Ensure the jump starter is OFF before making any connections
4. Connect the RED clamp to the positive (+) terminal of your dead battery
5. Connect the BLACK clamp to the negative (-) terminal or a ground point on the vehicle frame
6. Turn the jump starter ON using the power button
7. Wait approximately 30 seconds to allow initial charging
8. Attempt to start your vehicle (it should turn over immediately if connections are good)
9. Once the vehicle is running, turn off the jump starter
10. Disconnect the BLACK clamp first, followed by the RED clamp
11. Allow your vehicle to run for at least 15-20 minutes to recharge its battery

What surprised me most was how quickly the whole process works. From opening my trunk to having my engine running took less than two minutes the first time—and I’ve gotten even faster with practice.

A word of caution from personal experience: despite the built-in safety features, always follow the proper connection sequence. During one particularly stressful roadside situation, I nearly connected the clamps in reverse order, which could have potentially damaged the unit or my vehicle’s electrical system.

Vehicle Compatibility: What Can It Handle?

This is where the Everstart truly shines compared to less powerful competitors. The 1200A peak output provides enough current to start:

• Most gasoline engines up to 8.0L (which covers virtually all consumer vehicles)
• Diesel engines up to 6.0L (including most consumer pickup trucks)
• Motorcycles, ATVs, boats, and other recreational vehicles
• Lawn tractors and small agricultural equipment
• Even some small commercial equipment

I’ve personally verified its effectiveness on engines ranging from tiny 4-cylinder economy cars to substantial V8 trucks. The only time I encountered any difficulty was attempting to start my friend’s heavily modified diesel truck with dual batteries—which is well beyond the scope of most portable jump starters anyway.

One aspect I particularly appreciate is how it handles cold weather starts. Living in an area that regularly sees temperatures well below freezing, I’ve found the Everstart performs admirably even when temperatures drop to single digits. During one particularly brutal cold snap (-15°F), it successfully started my truck after it had been sitting overnight—something even my relatively new vehicle battery struggled with.

Battery Life and Capacity: What to Expect

The internal battery of the Everstart 1200A is typically a lithium-ion unit with approximately 12000-18000mAh capacity (varying slightly between production batches). This translates to:

• Approximately 20-30 jump starts on a fully charged unit (for average-sized engines)
• Several months of standby power when stored properly
• Multiple hours of continuous LED flashlight operation
• Multiple full charges for smartphones and tablets

What impressed me most was the unit’s ability to hold its charge during storage. After leaving it untouched in my garage for nearly three months, it still retained about 80% of its charge—ready when I unexpectedly needed it.

The real-world battery performance does depend significantly on:

1. The temperature (extreme cold reduces efficiency)
2. The size of the engine being started
3. The condition of your vehicle’s battery (completely dead batteries draw more power)
4. How deeply discharged the unit becomes between recharges

I’ve made it a habit to recharge the unit after every 3-4 jump starts, or every two months if unused, which seems to maintain optimal performance. The battery management system does an excellent job preventing overcharging or deep discharging during normal use.

Charging the Unit: Methods and Best Practices

Keeping the Everstart ready for action requires regular charging. The unit can be charged via:

• Wall outlet using the included AC adapter (approximately 4-5 hours for a full charge)
• Car 12V outlet using the included DC adapter (approximately 8 hours while driving)
• Some models support USB-C input charging (slower but convenient)

From my experience, the wall charging method is most efficient and convenient. I typically connect it overnight every couple of months, which ensures it’s always ready when needed.

A few charging tips I’ve discovered through trial and error:

• Avoid charging in extreme temperatures (below 32°F or above 105°F)
• The initial charge out of the box should be a full 8 hours, regardless of the indicated battery level
• For optimal battery longevity, try to avoid letting it drop below 20% charge
• If storing for extended periods (3+ months), charge to about 80% rather than 100%

The charging indicators are generally accurate, though I’ve noticed they sometimes show 100% slightly before the battery is truly full. I typically give it an extra 30 minutes after reaching “full” for good measure.

Additional Features: Beyond Jump Starting

While the primary purpose remains jump-starting vehicles, several secondary features have proven surprisingly useful in my daily life:

USB Charging Capability

The dual USB ports deliver 2.1A output, which is sufficient for fast-charging most smartphones and tablets. During a three-day power outage last winter, this feature became invaluable for keeping communication devices operational. I was able to charge:

• Two smartphones multiple times
• A tablet twice
• My wireless earbuds several times
• Even my wife’s e-reader

The charging speed is comparable to standard wall chargers, which was a pleasant surprise for a device primarily designed for automotive use.

LED Flashlight

The built-in LED light offers three modes:

1. Standard continuous beam (surprisingly bright and focused)
2. Flashing strobe (useful for roadside visibility)
3. SOS emergency pattern

During nighttime jump-start situations, this eliminated the need for juggling a separate flashlight while connecting cables. The beam is bright enough to fully illuminate an engine bay, and the battery capacity allows for several hours of continuous operation.

LCD Display

The digital readout provides essential information:

• Current battery percentage
• Charging status
• Error codes (if something goes wrong)
• Output mode indicators

This level of feedback elevates the user experience significantly compared to simpler units with basic indicator lights.

What’s in the Box? The Complete Package

When you purchase the Everstart 1200A Jump Starter, you receive:

• The main jump starter unit with integrated jumper cables
• AC wall charging adapter
• DC car charging adapter
• User manual and quick-start guide
• Carrying case (semi-rigid with interior organization)
• Some models include a basic air compressor attachment

The carrying case deserves special mention—it’s well-designed with dedicated compartments for each component, preventing cable tangling and protecting the unit during storage. I keep mine secured in my trunk, where it’s survived countless grocery runs and weekend trips without damage.

Cost Considerations: Value for Money

The Everstart 1200A typically retails between $79-$99 depending on promotions and the specific model variation. Compared to other emergency solutions, this represents excellent value:

• Professional roadside assistance callout: $75-150 per incident
• Traditional jumper cables: $20-30 (requiring another vehicle)
• Premium competitor jump starters: $120-200+
• Budget jump starters with lower amperage: $40-60

When I consider that I’ve used mine at least a dozen times for myself and others, the cost per use has been phenomenal. Even if only used once in an emergency situation, the convenience and immediate resolution it provides easily justifies the price.

Special promotions occasionally bring the price down to around $70, which is when I purchased a second unit for my wife’s vehicle. At that price point, it’s practically a mandatory purchase for any vehicle owner.

Where to Purchase: Finding the Best Deal

The Everstart 1200A is widely available through:

• Walmart (both in-store and online, as it’s their house brand)
• Amazon and other online retailers
• Occasionally at auto parts stores under slightly different packaging

In my experience, Walmart typically offers the best regular pricing, though Amazon occasionally features competitive deals. I recommend checking both, as well as watching for seasonal sales around Black Friday and automotive sales events.

When purchasing, verify you’re getting the genuine 1200A model, as there are several similar-looking units with lower amperage ratings in the Everstart line. The packaging should clearly state “1200A Peak” to ensure you’re getting the appropriate power capacity.

Physical Specifications: Size and Portability

The physical dimensions make this unit particularly practical:

• Approximate dimensions: 8.5″ x 3.5″ x 1.5″
• Weight: Approximately 2.5 pounds
• Cable length: About 8 inches from unit to clamps

While I initially worried the cables might be too short, in practice they’ve proven adequate for reaching battery terminals in most engine bay configurations. The compact size allows for storage in glove compartments, center consoles, or door pockets in larger vehicles.

The unit features a robust plastic housing with rubberized grip sections that provide excellent handling even in wet conditions. I’ve accidentally dropped mine twice on concrete with zero functional impact—a testament to its durability.

Comparative Analysis: How Does It Stack Up?

I’ve had the opportunity to use several competing products from friends and family members, giving me some perspective on how the Everstart compares:

vs. Premium Brands (NOCO, Jump-N-Carry)

• Power output: Comparable or slightly lower
• Build quality: Slightly less premium, but still very solid
• Features: Similar core features, fewer “bells and whistles”
• Price: Typically 30-50% less expensive
• Warranty: Shorter warranty period (usually 1 year vs. 3+ years)

vs. Budget Brands

• Power output: Significantly higher (1200A vs. 400-800A)
• Build quality: Superior materials and construction
• Reliability: Much more consistent performance
• Safety features: More comprehensive protection systems
• Price: 20-40% higher, but justified by performance

The Everstart occupies an ideal middle ground—offering nearly premium performance at a price point closer to budget options. For most consumers, it hits the sweet spot of value and capability.

Weather Resistance and Environmental Factors

Living in an area with dramatic seasonal changes, I’ve tested the Everstart across a wide range of conditions:

Cold Weather Performance

The unit performs admirably in cold weather, though with some expected limitations:

• Operational down to approximately 0°F (-18°C)
• Slightly reduced capacity in extreme cold (about 10-15% loss)
• Requires longer “preparation time” before cranking in sub-freezing temperatures
• Still outperforms traditional jumper cables in cold conditions

I’ve successfully used it during a -15°F cold snap, though I did bring the unit inside to warm up briefly before attempting the jump start.

Heat Tolerance

Summer heat presents fewer challenges:

• Operational up to approximately 120°F (49°C)
• No noticeable performance degradation in high heat
• Internal thermal protection prevents damage during extreme conditions
• Avoid storing in direct sunlight or hot vehicles for extended periods

During a particular heatwave with 100°F+ temperatures, the unit worked flawlessly to jump-start a neighbor’s vehicle that had been sitting in direct sunlight.

Moisture Resistance

While not fully waterproof, the unit offers decent moisture protection:

• Can withstand light rain during use
• Resistant to morning dew and humidity
• Ports feature protective covers to prevent water ingress
• Should be dried thoroughly if exposed to significant moisture

I accidentally left mine out overnight during a light rain, and it continued to function perfectly after drying the external surfaces.

Safety Features: Protection When You Need It Most

The engineering behind the safety systems impressed me most during my first accidental reverse polarity connection. The unit features:

• Spark-proof technology that prevents sparking during connections
• Reverse polarity protection that alerts you to incorrectly connected cables
• Over-voltage protection to prevent damage to vehicle electronics
• Short circuit protection to prevent internal damage
• Over-temperature automatic shutdown
• Over-charging protection for the internal battery

These systems provide peace of mind, especially for those less familiar with automotive electrical systems. The audible alarm and visual indicators make it nearly impossible to use incorrectly, which is crucial for a device often used in stressful emergency situations.

Maintenance and Longevity: Keeping It Ready

Based on my experience and manufacturer recommendations, these maintenance practices have kept my unit in perfect working condition:

1. Charge every 3-4 months when not in use (more frequently in extreme temperatures)
2. Store in moderate temperatures (avoid leaving in vehicles during extreme weather)
3. Keep terminals clean by occasionally wiping with a dry cloth
4. Check cable integrity periodically for cracks or wear
5. Test functionality occasionally by using the flashlight or checking charge level

With proper care, the expected lifespan appears to be 3-5 years of regular use before any noticeable capacity degradation. Mine is approaching the two-year mark with no measurable decrease in performance.

For longer-term storage (such as seasonal vehicles), I recommend a maintenance charge every two months and storage at approximately 80% capacity rather than 100%, which lithium-ion batteries prefer for longevity.

Troubleshooting Common Issues: Solutions From Experience

Even the best devices occasionally encounter issues. Here are solutions to the problems I’ve encountered or researched:

Unit Won’t Turn On

1. Ensure it’s charged (connect to power source for at least 30 minutes)
2. Try a reset by holding the power button for 10+ seconds
3. Check for visible damage to the housing or cables
4. Allow to reach room temperature if it’s been in extreme conditions

Unit Turns On But Won’t Jump Start

1. Verify battery connections are clean and secure
2. Ensure the vehicle’s issue is actually a dead battery (not starter, alternator, etc.)
3. Allow 30-60 seconds of connection before attempting to start
4. For extremely dead batteries, try multiple short starting attempts rather than one long attempt
5. Check that the unit is showing adequate charge (at least 50% recommended)

Reduced Capacity Over Time

1. Perform a full discharge/recharge cycle (use until nearly empty, then fully recharge)
2. Ensure you’re using the original charging equipment
3. Avoid exposure to extreme temperatures during storage
4. Check the manufacturing date (units over 3-4 years may need replacement)

In my experience, most issues resolve with proper charging and connection techniques. The most common problem I’ve encountered was attempting to jump-start a vehicle with a problem beyond a dead battery—something no jump starter can fix.

Is It Suitable for Diesel Engines?

This question comes up frequently, and based on both specifications and my personal testing, the answer is a qualified yes. The Everstart 1200A can handle:

• Diesel engines up to approximately 6.0L displacement
• Most consumer diesel pickups and SUVs
• Some light commercial diesel equipment
• Diesel engines in cold weather with some limitations

The 1200A peak capacity provides sufficient current for most diesel applications, though extremely large engines or severely cold conditions might push its limits. I successfully jump-started my friend’s 5.9L Cummins diesel multiple times without issues, though it did require about 40% of the unit’s charge each time.

For context, diesel engines typically require more cranking power than equivalent gasoline engines due to higher compression ratios. The Everstart provides enough reserve capacity to handle this increased demand in most consumer applications.

Warranty and Support: What to Expect

The Everstart 1200A typically comes with a 1-year limited warranty covering manufacturing defects and premature failure under normal use conditions. This is shorter than some premium competitors offering 3-5 year warranties, but still provides reasonable coverage.

My experience with Everstart support (through Walmart) has been limited but positive:

• Responsive email support within 1-2 business days
• Clear warranty process requiring proof of purchase
• Replacement rather than repair for defective units
• Support for basic troubleshooting via phone

I haven’t needed to make a warranty claim personally, but a friend who received a defective unit reported a straightforward replacement process requiring only the original receipt and returning the defective unit to any Walmart location.

Real-World Applications: Beyond Emergency Starts

While emergency jump-starting remains the primary function, I’ve found several additional uses that demonstrate the versatility of this device:

Planned Battery Disconnection

When performing maintenance requiring battery disconnection, I now connect the Everstart first to preserve memory settings in vehicle computers. This has saved me from:

• Having to reprogram radio presets
• Resetting adaptive transmission learning
• Recalibrating power window auto-up/down features
• Dealing with various “check engine” lights that appear after power loss

Camping and Outdoor Activities

The combination of portable power and bright LED lighting makes it useful for:

• Charging phones and cameras during hiking trips
• Providing emergency lighting at campsites
• Jump-starting recreational vehicles like ATVs and boats
• Creating a reliable power source during outdoor events

Home Emergency Preparedness

During power outages, the unit has provided:

• Critical device charging capability
• Emergency lighting
• Power for small USB-powered fans
• Charging for emergency weather radios

These secondary applications have actually resulted in me using the device more frequently than for its intended jump-starting purpose, increasing its overall value proposition significantly.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

After extensive use across various situations, my verdict is an emphatic yes. The Everstart 1200A Jump Starter represents one of the best values in automotive emergency equipment available today.

For approximately $90, you get a device that can potentially save hundreds in towing costs, hours of waiting for assistance, and provide genuine peace of mind across numerous situations. The combination of jump-starting capability, USB charging, and emergency lighting creates a versatile tool that belongs in every vehicle.

What impressed me most wasn’t any single feature, but rather the thoughtful integration of multiple functions into a cohesive, user-friendly package. From the intuitive interface to the comprehensive safety features, it’s clear this device was designed by people who understand real-world automotive emergencies.

If you own a vehicle—any vehicle—this device deserves consideration as an essential safety item, alongside your spare tire and first aid kit. In my case, it’s paid for itself multiple times over in avoided towing costs alone, not counting the intangible value of reduced stress and inconvenience during battery failures.

Whether you’re a daily commuter, weekend adventurer, or someone who simply values preparedness, the Everstart 1200A represents a small investment with potentially significant returns in convenience, safety, and peace of mind.