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How to Buy a Portable Jump Starter and Air Compressor

How to · Auto

How to Buy a Portable Jump Starter and Air Compressor

Get your emergency kit sorted now while October prices are low and pay for it over time without interest.

VoAtlas editorial Updated · 3 min read
Typical cost $200 before anything else
Across the 0% window $13.33/mo 15 months, no interest

How we got that: $200 spread evenly across the 15-month introductory window on the Discover it® Cash Back. Checked · at the bank Carry a balance past the window and the standard APR applies to what is left.

A high-capacity jump starter and air compressor is the kind of thing you hope never to use, but you will be glad to have when your battery dies in the cold. Buying one in October is smart because stores often discount winter prep gear before the first real freeze hits.

You can expect to spend around $200 for a reliable unit. Instead of taking that hit all at once, you can use the Discover it® Cash Back card to smooth out the cost over the next year.

The 0% intro APR window is a deadline, not a gift. If you have not paid off the full $200 by the end of the 15 months, the bank will charge you interest on the remaining balance.

The steps

  1. 01

    Compare your top models

    Look for a unit that provides enough cranking amps for your specific engine size. Check user reviews for how long the battery holds a charge while sitting in the trunk. Stick to your $200 budget and ignore the gimmicky extras you do not need.

  2. 02

    Time your purchase

    Wait for October sales to find the best deals on winter safety gear. Check major online retailers and auto parts stores mid-month. Prices tend to dip right before the real winter rush begins.

  3. 03

    Use your card window

    Pay for your purchase using the Discover it® Cash Back card. You will get 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers, which acts as a window to pay off the $200 without interest charges.

  4. 04

    Set up a payment plan

    Divide the $200 cost by 15 months to get your monthly payment of $13.33. Set up an automatic payment for this amount so you do not have to think about it. This keeps you on track to clear the balance before the intro period ends.

  5. 05

    Test the device

    Once the unit arrives, charge it fully and test the air compressor on your tires. Keep the instructions in your glove box so you know exactly what to do if you get stranded in the dark.

  6. 06

    Check the card terms before you commit

    Every figure we publish for the Discover it® Cash Back carries the date a person verified it against Discover and a link to where they checked. Intro windows and APRs change without notice, so confirm the current terms before applying.

    See Discover it® Cash Back terms →

Common questions

Do I really need both a jump starter and a compressor?

Yes. Dead batteries and low tire pressure are the two most common roadside issues in the winter. Having both in one device saves trunk space and ensures you are covered for both problems.

What happens if I miss a payment?

You might lose your promotional interest rate and get hit with a late fee. Stick to your plan and pay the $13.33 every month to avoid this.

Is the cheapest model okay to buy?

Not always. You want a unit with enough power to actually start your engine. Read the specs to ensure it is rated for the size of your car battery.

Does this card really have no interest for 15 months?

It does, but only on what you buy within the intro window. If you use the card for other things, you must pay those off too to avoid interest charges.