Rating of the best cigarette lighter wires for 2022

The best manufacturers always try to please their fans and produce the most modern and functional starting wires. There are a lot of popular models. Which company is better to purchase goods depends on the personal preferences of the motorist. Before buying, it will not be superfluous to familiarize yourself with the rating of popular device models that are used to light up batteries.

What it is

Devices are also called starting or starting-charging devices. Special equipment designed to start the battery, the charge of which has gone to zero. For these purposes, you will need a working battery device on another car and a set of starting components. The simplest devices consist of several elements with terminals. They are used when the battery has gone to zero, and it is not possible to start it without additional help.

The situation can occur when parking lights, various electronics are left on for a long time, if the battery breaks down or when the car is in the cold for a long time.

The best and most functional device is starting wires. They are in the arsenal of any driver, and can help out in a difficult situation not only him, but also another motorist who has encountered such a problem. This will help you quickly get out of a negative situation, start the car without making significant efforts and without wasting a lot of free time, as well as money.

What are the wires and their characteristics

Cigarette lighters from both domestic and foreign manufacturers differ in the cross section of the product and its length, design features of the terminals, options, operational and electrical characteristics.

Based on the functionality, the devices are:

View	Characteristics
Standard	They perform a single task - they supply current from the battery to the starter.
With extended functionality	In addition to the main purpose, they are equipped with an overload protection unit, a diagnostic unit for determining the degree of battery charge, and so on.

The length of the structures varies. Popular models are produced in 7, 5, 4.5, 3, 2.5, 2.2 and 2 meters. The cross section of one element can be in the range from 4 to 23 sq.m. All products end with cigarette lighter clips. They differ in appearance, in connection with which they distinguish the following types:

1. Ticks. Sponges are semicircular corrugated or smooth.
2. Crocodiles. They have pointed jagged lips (hence the name).

The main characteristics of starter structures:

1. The voltage drop limits on the wire are from 1 to 6 V.
2. The period of operation at the rated starting current is at least 10 seconds.
3. The indicator of the rated starting current is from 100 to 1000 A.

All of the above qualities depend on the section of the structure. The thicker the product, the more current it is able to pass through itself, without a significant voltage drop. The norm is considered to be a voltage drop in the range from 1 to 2 V. If the drop occurs in the range of 5 - 6 V, then the car will not start.

What should you pay special attention to when choosing a product? According to buyers, the main operational characteristics of the accessory are:

• the degree of heating of products and terminals during their use;
• operating temperature range (especially the lower value).

Everyone has different criteria for choosing a product, but it is worth paying special attention to structures that are able to function in severe frosts up to -50 degrees.

In the process of starting the motor, the current flowing through the structures heats them and the terminals. Moreover, the higher the voltage indicator, the more significant the heating. Products with a large cross-section practically do not heat up if the voltage drops to 2 V, while a voltage drop from 4 to 6 V will lead to strong heating. If the device is used incorrectly, severe burns can occur.

Design features of the ignition wires

Regardless of whether the product is from a Russian or foreign manufacturer, it consists of three structural elements:

• stranded conductive core;
• polymer insulation;
• terminals.

In most cases, the core is made of copper. In order for the device to be flexible and have improved electrical characteristics, it is made stranded. The number of cores varies from 60 to 320 pieces, with a diameter of 0.3 mm.

The insulating layer can be silicone, rubber, PVC and other polymeric materials. So that they can endure severe frosts, modified polymers are used. In most cases, one element is covered with a black insulating layer (“-”), the other is covered with red (“+”). On sale you can find new products with a transparent insulating layer. Devices with a high frost resistance index have soft black insulation.

In the manufacture of terminals, copper and brass are most often used. However, on sale there are steel models with a copper coating, the strength of which is at its best. Due to the special coating, their electrical resistance is minimal. They are connected by means of screw or spade clamps. Handles have black or red plastic insulation.

Lighting wires are always sold in pairs.At the same time, the kit may additionally include gloves, a fabric bag and other devices are convenient.

How to choose the right model

Before making a final decision, it is necessary to put the engine size of your vehicle and the climatic conditions in the region of residence at the forefront. Be sure to take care of such a device in the following cases:

1. Starting the engine "cold" is very difficult.
2. The battery has almost exhausted its working life and has lost its original characteristics.
3. The machine is constantly operated in extreme conditions (with too much frost).

Drivers can refuse to "light up" only if they do not have the appropriate elements. In order not to get into trouble, you need to purchase your own emergency kit and place it in the trunk. What is the best product to buy? In order to avoid mistakes when choosing, you need to pay attention to such nuances.

Purpose

The main function of such accessories for vehicles is the ability to start the engine when the charge of its own battery has gone to zero. There are craftsmen who can start a car without such structures. First, they remove the battery in their car and put another working one in its place. Start the engine and warm it up a little. After this procedure, without turning off the motor, the terminals are folded back, and their own poorly functioning battery is put in place. The recommendations of experts boil down to the following: you can’t do this! This is very dangerous based on the following:

1. When switching the battery, “free” terminals can cause a short circuit.
2. If the generator contributed to increased voltage, as soon as the terminals are removed with the engine not turned off, all electrical equipment available there receives abnormal voltage, which will lead to failure of electronic control units, lighting and other electrical equipment.
3. When you turn off / on the battery, there is a high probability of its polarity reversal. And this applies to both your own car and the donor vehicle. And this is a very dangerous situation.
4. The process of removing the terminals from the battery is fraught with immobilizer problems, problems with setting up the radio and alarm. This applies to both cars, both foreign and Russian-made, whether they are budget or expensive.

Specialized outlets will offer a choice of a huge range of products for every taste and budget, for trucks and cars, as well as universal options, with and without additional features. Devices are bought for many years, so the choice must be taken seriously. Experts advise to carefully consider such device parameters.

Length

The opinion that long wires are the best is erroneous. The longer the conductor, the more it loses voltage. If in meter structures the drop is 0.5 Volts, then in three-meter structures the figure will reach 1.5 Volts. If we take into account that the number of elements is two, then the voltage will generally drop by 3 Volts.

The length of the product is greatly influenced by the installation location of the standard battery. If the battery is located in the trunk or passenger compartment, then a powerful terminal must be installed inside the hood to allow the vehicle to be started in an emergency. As a rule, the manufacturer installs it under a red insulating protection.The place is marked with a "+" sign.

The most optimal length is considered to be 2 - 3.5 meters. In order for this length to be enough to light up a car in the garage, experienced motorists turn it with the hood towards the gate. When the battery is located under the hood on the passenger side, it is worth considering purchasing longer fixtures, since the donor car will not be able to drive very close to the stalled vehicle. This is especially true of the case that occurred on the track.

Section index

The most acceptable indicator for these purposes is 16 sq. mm (or 5 mm in diameter). If this value is less, then the element will heat up and the voltage will drop significantly. It should be borne in mind that Chinese manufacturers save a lot on cross-sections in order to minimize the cost of manufactured goods and get more profit in the process of selling them. To this end, they make the thickness of the cores scanty, while the insulation layer is made significant. Therefore, give preference to goods from a domestic manufacturer.

Material for the manufacture of structural elements

As a rule, in the production of current-carrying conductors, a copper stranded conductor is used. It is worth noting that copper itself comes across both good and poor quality. At the same time, its production technology also differs. So, in the manufacture of acoustic products, seven different technologies are used. For lighting wires, inexpensive copper is sufficient, since the technological features in their manufacture are almost identical.

As for aluminum, its resistivity is less than that of copper. Based on these characteristics, it is more suitable for the manufacture of conductors.However, it should be borne in mind that aluminum is too brittle and melts easily, so manufacturers do not use it.

Almost all models have insulation made of polyvinyl chloride. He is very soft. Appearance says nothing about its quality. The packaging must contain information about the operating temperature range. In severe frosts (below -30 degrees), poor insulation can crack and render the structure unusable.

In the manufacture of crocodile clips, copper, bronze, steel and brass are used. The best, according to buyers, are brass and copper options. Steel has a high contact resistance, which leads to an increase in electrolysis processes. Elements become green or white, covered with a bloom. If the thickness of the bronze is insignificant, then it can quickly break. On the market you can find good combination clamps made of steel, equipped with copper teeth.

Where to buy fixtures

Purchasing this category of goods is quite simple. A huge range of these products from different manufacturers is supplied to specialized stores. It is advisable to visit them to purchase the desired device. If you have any difficulties with the choice, a professional sales manager will help you decide on this issue, introduce you to the new products, tell you how much it costs and how long this or that equipment will last.

You can order goods online in the online store. However, before placing an order, it is advisable to review the proposed devices, carefully review the photo of the product, and read user reviews. It will not be superfluous to check the supplier for decency.Otherwise, instead of an expensive foreign device, you can get a low-quality Chinese one-time fake.

There is a third option - to make the product yourself. It is not as difficult as it seems at first glance. Especially the option is acceptable for motorists who prefer to do everything with their own hands. If there are difficulties in the manufacturing process, detailed instructions posted on the Internet will come to the rescue. Before starting work, you need to purchase the following components:

1. Stranded structures with a length of at least 2 meters and a cross section of at least 25 sq. mm in the amount of two pieces. Insulation should be of different shades. The best option is red and black.
2. Steel knife or side cutters. Needed to remove the insulating layer.
3. Powerful soldering iron (at least 60 W), solder POS - 60.
4. Active plus for soldering and tinning.
5. Clamps - alligator clips made of brass or copper (4 pieces).
6. Insulating heat shrink or cambric. Needed to isolate the connection section with the clamp.
7. Pliers.

The manufacturing process is as follows:

1. At both ends of the structure, the insulating layer is removed (1.5 cm on each side),
2. Soldering clamps or copper products are tinned.
3. Products are attached to the clamps with pliers and a hammer.
4. The last step is to solder the electrical contact areas with the clamps. If the contact points are crimped with high quality, then there will be no need for soldering. If you use high-quality products, then electrical connections can be fixed using the spot welding method.

Rating of inexpensive quality devices

KRAFT KT/880002, 400 A, 2.5 m

Starting wires are made of high-quality copper.Thermoplastic rubber acts as an insulating layer. Belong to the category of frost-resistant. Withstand temperatures from -40 to +80 degrees. Length - 2.5 meters. How many amps are the wires? The maximum current indicator is 400 A. The question of how to connect them is not worth it. At the ends are special clips - crocodiles.

The average price is 849 rubles.

• practical;
• convenient to use;
• withstand severe frosts;
• high quality copper;
• optimal length;
• Comes with a handy carrying case.

• not installed.

Nova Bright

Products of the American brand are produced in the Middle Kingdom. Belongs to the category of budget models. The length varies from one and a half to two and a half meters. The structures are made separately. The insulating layer is transparent plastic. The double crimp method is used to connect the clamps and the cable. Crocodiles steel, covered with copper coating. The total cross section is 4.2 sq. mm.

You can buy goods at a price of 275 rubles.

• good performance;
• ease of operation;
• reliability;
• functionality.

• section is too small.

Battery 400 A ARNEZI A0102004

Wire diameter - 9 mm, length - 2.5 meters. They work with a voltage of 12/24 V. They consist of 170 wires. The operating temperature indicator is from +80 to -40 degrees. Insulation - polyvinyl chloride. Designed to start the engine by using a working battery. They belong to the generic type. Product reviews are only positive.

The average cost is 680 rubles.

• long service life;
• practicality;
• ease of use;
• reliability;
• safety;
• the set includes a bag for transportation;
• value for money.

• not installed.

Battery ARNEZI A/0102006

The product is 2.5 meters long. The total number of cores is 64 pieces. Wire diameter - 7 mm. Supply voltage - 12 V. Current strength - 150 A. Insulating material - silicone. Qualitatively functions at 80 degrees of heat and 40 degrees of frost. In the absence of sufficient charge on your own car, it will help to launch using another auto-donor. For ease of transportation, a high-quality bag is provided.

The purchase price is 374 rubles.

• comfort in use;
• functionality;
• withstands extreme heat and severe frosts;
• does not crack or melt;
• reliable;
• durable.

• missing.

STANDARD AIRLINE SA/150/07S

Products are manufactured for lighting up the battery. The length is 2 meters. Current strength - 150 A. Very convenient for use by car owners. It will help to quickly get out of the situation with a dead battery. Can be used in both hot and cold. Completely safe. It can be purchased both at specialized outlets and ordered online in the online store.

The purchase price is 243 rubles.

• ease of use;
• reliable;
• acceptable length;
• inexpensive;
• long service life.

• not installed.

Stels 55917

The main task of the starting wires is to carry out additional feeding of the starter in a car with a discharged battery or oil that has thickened during severe frost. The length is 2.3 meters, the current strength is 200 A.Belongs to the category of universal goods. Purchased by owners of both trucks and cars. They will help to start the car during its long-term storage in the cold season, when the battery has completely self-discharged.

The average price is 820 rubles.

• universality;
• practicality;
• reliability;
• durability;
• acceptable cost.

• missing.

ringleader

Goods from a domestic company with production facilities in St. Petersburg. You can buy it at any specialized outlet at an affordable price. The declared current indicator is only 220 A, but in reality it is not achieved. The length is 2 meters. Cold is not afraid.

The average price is 300 rubles.

• practicality;
• functionality;
• inexpensive.

• bad contacts.

Products of the middle price segment

Autoprofi APBC5000XL

The length of the wires for lighting is 3.5 meters. It is very convenient to use for charging the battery in both trucks and cars. Operated in severe frosts and hot weather. Doesn't break or crack. Serves long enough. Clamps are strong and good quality.

The average price is 1550 rubles.

• ease of use;
• optimal length;
• positive reviews;
• value for money;
• safety.

• missing.

Battery Vympel 146227

The product is produced by a Russian company. The current indicator is 500 A, the length is 3 meters with a diameter of 10 mm. Consists of 94 cores. Designed for operation at temperatures from 50 degrees below zero to 80 degrees Celsius. Differs in safety and long service life.Made from quality materials.

The purchase price is 1794 rubles.

• comfort in use;
• durability;
• functionality;
• versatility.

• not installed.

Stels 55919

The products are produced in order to fulfill such a task - to additionally feed the starter in the vehicle if its own battery is completely dead or the oil has frozen in severe frost. The length of the product is 2.5 meters, it works with a current of 400 A. It will become an indispensable tool for starting cars and trucks.

The purchase price is 1330 rubles.

• universality;
• practicality;
• functionality;
• durability.

• missing.

Astro Smart PLU

The model is in great demand due to its complete safety and reliability in operation. Even if a polarity reversal or contact closure occurs, the driver will never be shocked thanks to the presence of safety clamps. If an emergency situation occurs, there will be no negative impact on the electrical systems. The manufacturer has equipped his offspring with special LED indicators that will let you know if you connected the wires to the terminals correctly. The ends are connected separately, so even if the cables touch each other, there will be no short circuit. Able to pass a current of 400 A. The thickness of the cores is 6 mm. Wire length 5.3 meters. The manufacturer guarantees a service life of 10 years.

The purchase price is 1300 rubles.

• safety;
• reliability;
• universality;
• functionality;
• positive user reviews;
• value for money.

• not installed.

Expensive fixtures

Deka

The product is considered very reliable. Cable of essential thickness. Designed for lighting large vehicles - trucks and tractors. The length of the fixture is 8 meters. Difficulties when connecting from another machine does not arise. Copper wires, good quality. Throughput - 600 A. The insulating layer is very reliable. In its manufacture, a thermoplastic elastomer is used, which is characterized by increased stability. It is not afraid of mechanical influences, aggressive environments and significant temperature changes. Belongs to the industrial grade.

The average cost is 9000 rubles.

• significant thickness;
• safety;
• functionality;
• reliability;
• long service life;
• positive reviews.

• overcharge.

Heyner

The kit is made by a German company. A distinctive feature of the device is wear resistance, practicality and the ability to operate at very low temperatures. Available in lengths from 3.5 to 4.5 meters. For easy storage, the set includes a durable fabric case with a handle. Clips - alligator clips are attached to the cable by means of a thread. The clamps are made of brass with a plastic coating. Each wire consists of 320 copper wires with a total cross section of 22.5 sq. mm.

The purchase price is 4000 rubles.

• practicality;
• functionality;
• wear resistance;
• withstands any temperature;
• does not break and does not burst;
• long service life.

• not identified.

Coleman

The model is designed for lighting cars and small trucks. Available in lengths from 4 to 8 meters. The cable diameter also varies. The operating temperature range is significant. Flexibility is maintained at forty-degree frosts. Clamps are ergonomic. The cable is not afraid of significant loads. There are polarity indicators so that the connection to the terminal is correct.

The purchase price is 2600 rubles.

• positive user reviews;
• long service life;
• reliability;
• ease of use;
• the quality of the materials used.

• aluminum is used in the manufacture of the core.

Smart Power Berkut RYH SP-400

The product is made in China, but there are no complaints about its quality. The operating temperature range is impressive. The device will quickly complete the task assigned to it, even if the temperature outside drops to 50 degrees below zero. The declared current is 400 A, drops by only 1.4 V. The cable is made three meters long, of a dual type. It's easy to work with him.

The average price is 2700 rubles.

• wide temperature range;
• practicality;
• long service life;
• reliability.

• weak contacts.

Airline Expert SA/1000/06E

The product is manufactured in the Celestial Empire, but the developers are engineers from St. Petersburg. The launcher is very popular due to the ratio of price and functionality. Differs in frost resistance. Withstands 40 degree frosts. Produced in lengths from 2 to 5 meters. The throughput ranges from 200 to 400 A. The clamps are made of plastic, the contacts are steel. In the manufacture of crocodiles, the technology of dual contacts is used. The total cross section is 8.5 sq. mm.

The purchase price is 3549 rubles.

• affordable price;
• practicality;
• ease of use;
• functionality;
• wear resistance.

• not identified.

Conclusion

All motorists know how important it is to have ignition wires with you when an emergency occurs: the degree of battery wear is high and the vehicle does not want to start. Then special devices for smoking will come to the rescue. The main advice of experts boil down to the following:

1. Don't skimp on your purchase. By purchasing a cheap Chinese product, one cannot be sure of a positive outcome of the event. Poor-quality cables will not help, even if it is warm outside.
2. When connecting wires, you need to be extremely careful and careful. Even a minor oversight can lead to disastrous consequences.
3. It is advisable to purchase a special bag or case for storing the device, if they are not provided in the kit. If it is a pity to spend money, then use the services of a plastic bag.