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Q: How did the tool/equipment function as far as saving you time?
A: The Cobra Jump Starter can save some time when one carries it in their vehicle. While it will provide enough juice for getting 95 percent of vehicles to turn over, even with a close to dead battery, some are just too far gone for it.
Q: What kind of setup was involved before using the product?
A: The CPJS1000A has a few different setups. To use it from inside a vehicle by way of a power port more time is needed. You need to have the key in a position that allows power through the power port, usually, the accessory position works. The display will read “Output”, the bars will flash and then become solid; you need to wait for all five charge bars to light before attempting a start. This takes varying amounts of time; they say up to 15 minutes.
To use the jump starter cables, “Direct to Battery” method, first connect the clamps to the positive and negative terminals provided by the OEM, or directly to the battery, before making the connection to the power bank. After a second or two, the led on the cable pack will turn green letting you know it's ready to attempt a start. Cobra also recommends unhooking the power bank before the cable clamps. Using the unit as a power bank for other needs has no setup; the unit automatically detects what you're using it for.
Q: How easy was it to use?
A: I found it as easy as any other jump starter.
Q: How was its packaging? Did it come with any accessories?
A: The CPJS1000A came in a box covered with information and pictures. It also had a nylon case, USB-C to A cable, 12V power cable, and jump starter cable clamp (magic box).
Q: Was there a manual included? If so, did you use the manual, and was the manual easy to understand?
A: Yes, there is a “Quick Start” guide, registration slip, and safety instructions. I didn’t have any trouble understanding any of them.
Q: What features did you like?
A: Easy to use, not having to reset connections to make another start attempt should the first result in a “Start-Run-Stall" event. Being able to use it as an alternate power source for other things. The display is easy to read, use, and understand. The displayed “Available” power is reliable, unlike a few others I have owned.
Q: What types of jobs/repairs did you use this tool for?
A: The Cobra has been used to jump everything from SUVs, Diesel trucks (light duty), and cars. On a 2011 Dodge Journey with a system voltage under 5V, the CPJS1000A had enough juice for five, failed to start, crank events in a row. It started a 2015 Dodge Grand Caravan no problem. Next, it met its match with a 2005 Ford F250 Super Duty.
That 6.0 Powerstroke had 0V. The CPJS1000A didn’t have the power needed to make it turn over, even after the glow plugs cycled. It did have enough, even after the failed crank, to let me communicate with the PCM so I could gather codes and data.
Q: Have you used a previous version of this tool? If so, what are some new features compared to the old version?
A: My “Supercapacitor” jump pac’s started long ago. I have used three different models from three different manufacturers. The Cobra CPJS1000A is on par with all but the first one I owned – the Cobra is far better.
Q: Is there any way you could think to improve or add to the tool?
A: More power and faster re-charging. Longer cables would be useful too.
Q: Is there anything you had questions or concerns about in regard to the tool?
A: The only concern would be not knowing how well it performs in the winters we have here.
Q: On a scale of 1 to 10, how would you rate this tool overall? Why?
A: I am going to rate the Cobra CPJS1000A jump pac a 10. It is well put together, easy to use, and stores nicely in the provided bag. I also think this unit is perfect for anyone to carry as an emergency power source.
