These instructions apply to the Toyota Tacoma Mk3 (N300) 2016-2023.
For other models, please choose your vehicle here.
A dead 12 V battery will keep a 2016–2023 Toyota Tacoma from cranking. Jump it in order, grounding the last clamp to bare metal. This is the US-market procedure.
- Park a 12 V donor close but not touching; parking brakes on, both ignitions off.
- Red (+) to the Tacoma’s positive (+), then to the donor’s positive (+).
- Black (−) to the donor’s negative (−), then to a solid unpainted metal point on the Tacoma — not the dead battery post.
- Run the donor ~5 minutes at a slightly raised idle, then start the Tacoma.
- Remove the cables in exact reverse order.
FAQ
Where does the negative clamp go?
Bare engine metal away from the battery, never the dead battery’s negative terminal.
Can I tow-start it?
No — the automatic can’t be push- or tow-started. Use cables or a jump pack.
It won’t hold a charge.
Have the battery and alternator tested — a healthy pair holds charge once running.
If your Tacoma stores a fault code with the warning light, look it up on autodtcs.com.
Independent guide — not affiliated with Toyota. Always follow your official service manual and safety precautions. Read our full disclaimer.