Embodiments include smart jumper cables for jump-starting a vehicle. A jumper cable is configured with an electronic control module that monitors the connection at each end of the jumper cable, and only closes the circuit when a battery or vehicle electrical system is detected as properly connected to each end. In some embodiments, the electronic control module opens the circuit when a successful jump-start is detected. In some embodiments, the electronic control module further monitors the temperature of the jumper cable, and modulates the power transfer or opens the circuit if the temperature exceeds a predetermined level.