Can you jump start a forklift battery with a car?

It depends on the type of forklift and its battery system. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Electric Forklift (High-Voltage Battery) –  NO

• Electric forklifts use large deep-cycle batteries (24V, 36V, 48V, or higher) that are much more powerful than a car's 12V system.

• Jump-starting with a car battery won’t work and could damage both vehicles. Instead, recharge the forklift battery properly or use a compatible external charger.

2. Internal Combustion (Gas/Diesel/LPG) Forklift –  YES

• These forklifts have a 12V starter battery, similar to a car battery.

• You can safely jump-start it using a car, just like jump-starting another vehicle:
  Steps:

  1. Ensure both vehicles are turned off.

  2. Connect positive (+) to positive (+).

  3. Connect negative (-) to a metal ground on the forklift.

  4. Start the car and let it run for a minute.

  5. Try starting the forklift.

  6. Once started, remove cables in reverse order.