How to Jump a Car with a Flat Head Screwdriver

In addition to its standard uses a flat head screwdriver can be used to jump a car. It's not the most common use for the tool but it is one that’s useful to know in an emergency.

Step 1: Warning

A flat head screwdriver can be used to jump start a car in two different ways. However, unless you own the car or have the permission of the owner, it’s illegal to do. With a lot of newer vehicles, you won’t be able to use these methods because of the way the components are arranged or because of the kill switches that prevent screwdriver jumps from working.

Step 2: Locating the Coil Wire

The first step is to pop the hood and look for the red coil wire. It will be in different places depending on the size or model of your car. With four cylinder vehicles, expect to find it to the right of the center of the engine. With six cylinder engines, you will find them just to the left of center of the engine. Move up to eight cylinders and you should look toward the rear of the engine for it.

Step 3: Power to the Dashboard

Now, take a wire and run it from the positive terminal on the battery. You'll see a red wire running off the coil. You can attach it to that. Alternatively, attach the wire directly to the coil, on the positive side. Doing this will give you power to the dashboard, which you’ll need to start a car with a flat head screwdriver.

Step 4: Steering Wheel

This method will only work if the starter solenoid for your car is under the steering wheel as it generally is in GM cars. If your car is a stick shift, put it in neutral and ensure the parking brake is firmly on.

Step 5: Starting the Car

You will need to get to the start solenoid. To do this, place your flat head screwdriver on the center top of the steering column, where you see the gap that separates the steering column from the steering wheel. Now, bring pressure down on the screwdriver. This will force the locking pin away and give you access to the solenoid.

There will be a small wire at the top of the solenoid and below it ,you’ll see the positive cable for the battery. Lay the metal part of your flat head screwdriver across them. Make sure you only hold the screwdriver by the insulated handle or you’ll receive a serious electrical shock. The engine will now start.

Step 6: Alternative Method

There is another, much rougher way to start a car with a flat head screwdriver. With a small bit on your drill, position it about 2/3 of the way up the ignition keyhole on the steering column. Start the drill and push the bit in to the same depth as a key. This will take out all the lock pins. Now, you can jam your flat head screwdriver into the ignition and turn it to start the engine as if it was a key.