The safest way to jack up a car from the side is to lift one end at a time using designated jack points on the vehicle's frame, never the side rocker panels. This method raises two wheels on the same side, but it's crucial for stability to place jack stands under the frame immediately after lifting and to never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
First, consult your owner's manual to locate the front and rear jack points, which are reinforced sections of the frame designed to handle the load. These are typically located behind the front wheels and ahead of the rear wheels. Park on a firm, level surface, engage the parking brake, and chock the wheels opposite the side you're lifting.
For a typical side lift:
- Position your floor jack under the front jack point. A floor jack is essential for this as bottle jacks are less stable and not recommended.
- Lift the vehicle until the front wheel is just off the ground.
- Immediately slide a jack stand under a solid part of the frame, such as a designated stand point or a subframe member. Lower the jack slowly until the vehicle rests securely on the stand.
- Repeat the process for the rear jack point on the same side.
Vehicle weight distribution is key to stability. The following table shows approximate weight distribution for common vehicle types, illustrating why supporting both ends is critical.
| Vehicle Type | Approximate Front/Rear Weight Distribution | Key Consideration for Side Lifting |
|---|
| Front-Wheel-Drive Sedan | 60/40 | Heavier front end requires secure front jack stand placement first. |
| Rear-Wheel-Drive Sports Car | 50/50 or 55/45 | More balanced lift, but chassis rigidity is paramount. |
| Mid-Size SUV | 55/45 | Higher center of gravity demands extreme caution with jack stand height and placement. |
| Full-Size Pickup Truck | 55/45 to 60/40 | Requires a heavy-duty jack and stands rated for the vehicle's weight. |
| Compact Electric Vehicle | 48/52 to 50/50 | Battery weight in the floor creates a low center of gravity; avoid lifting on any part of the battery casing. |
The rocker panels (the bodywork underneath the doors) are not structural and will crumple if used as a jack point, causing significant damage. Always perform a stability test by gently rocking the car before going underneath. Your safety depends entirely on using jack stands correctly.
