Schumacher SC1362 Fully Automatic Jump Starter and Battery Charger

Our review of the Schumacher SC1362 finds it best suited to drivers, boaters and powersport owners who want a compact, no-fuss unit that both jumps and maintains 6 V and 12 V batteries. The single biggest reason to buy is its combination of an 85 cranking amp start and a 30-amp boost mode paired with fully automatic charging and float monitoring, which makes getting a dead battery going and keeping batteries healthy straightforward for routine roadside and garage use.

Key Features

• 85 cranking amps: Provides enough engine-start assistance for most cars, SUVs and light trucks when a quick, dependable start is needed.
• 30-amp boost mode: Quickly adds charge to deeply depleted batteries so you can attempt an immediate restart without lengthy charging cycles.
• Automatic 6 V/12 V detection: The unit senses battery voltage and switches charging and maintain modes automatically to prevent overcharge.
• Built-in tester: Integrated battery and alternator diagnostics help identify whether a battery or charging system is the root cause of starting trouble.
• Multi-stage charging and float: Charging profiles and maintain mode help extend battery life by avoiding constant overcharging once full.
• Reverse hook-up protection: Advanced protection prevents damage if clamps are connected incorrectly, which adds a layer of safety for casual users.

Who It's For

The SC1362 is ideal for weekend mechanics, riders, and owners of cars, trucks, boats and powersport vehicles who want an easy-to-use combined jump starter and charger that handles both 6 V and 12 V batteries. Its automatic operation and built-in tester make it useful for home garages and seasonal storage maintenance.

It is less appropriate for users who need very high cranking power for heavy commercial diesel engines or those who expect to draw power from unconventional sources without verifying compatibility, since some customers reported issues when using generator power or when long-term internal battery life was a concern.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Compact 85 cranking amp start with a 30-amp boost covers most passenger vehicles and powersports reliably.
• Automatic detection and multi-stage float charging make battery maintenance hands-off and safer for long-term storage.
• Built-in battery and alternator tester helps diagnose electrical problems without separate equipment.

Cons

• Some users reported limited internal battery life or problems when using generator power, so results can vary with non-standard power sources.
• Not intended for very large commercial diesel engines that require much higher cranking amps.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The Schumacher SC1362 is a practical, value-oriented choice for most drivers and powersport owners who need a reliable, automatic jump starter and battery charger. It combines useful start power, boost capability and diagnostic tools in a compact package, making it a good pick for routine vehicle maintenance and emergency starts, provided you do not require very high cranking amps or depend on unconventional power sources.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can it jump start both 6 V and 12 V batteries?
Yes. The SC1362 automatically detects and works with both 6 V and 12 V batteries including standard, AGM and deep-cycle types.

Does it protect against incorrect clamp connection?
Yes. The unit includes reverse hook-up protection to prevent damage if clamps are connected improperly.

Will it maintain battery health in long-term storage?
Yes. Multi-stage charging and float/maintain modes are designed to keep batteries topped up without overcharging during storage.