Lifting a car with a jack requires knowing the correct lifting points to avoid damaging the vehicle's frame or components. The safest method involves using a floor jack on the vehicle's designated jack points, which are reinforced sections of the frame or pinch welds, and always supporting the vehicle with jack stands before working underneath it. Never rely solely on a jack to hold the car's weight.
Step-by-Step Guide to Safe Jacking
-
Park on a Level, Solid Surface: Ensure the car is on flat, stable ground like concrete. Avoid asphalt on a hot day, as it can soften. Engage the parking brake and place wheel chocks against the tires opposite the end you're lifting.
-
Locate the Front and Rear Jack Points: Consult your owner's manual. For most unibody cars, the primary front jack point is a reinforced central area behind the front bumper, and the rear point is beneath the rear differential or a central crossmember. For individual wheels, use the pinch weld jack points along the sides, often marked by notches.
-
Position the Floor Jack: Place the jack's saddle directly under the correct central jack point. Ensure the jack's lifting arm is perpendicular to the ground for stability.
-
Lift the Vehicle Slowly: Pump the jack handle smoothly until the car is high enough to place jack stands. Do not lift higher than necessary.
-
Place Jack Stands Immediately: This is the most critical safety step. Position sturdy jack stands under a solid, load-bearing part of the frame or a designated stand point, often near the main jack points. Slowly lower the jack until the car rests securely on the stands. Give the car a gentle shake to test stability.
Common Jack Types and Their Uses
| Jack Type | Ideal Use Case | Max Lift Capacity (lbs) | Pros | Cons |
|---|
| Floor Jack | Garage, serious maintenance | 3,000 - 5,000+ | Stable, easy rolling, high lift | Heavy, bulky, requires storage |
| Scissor Jack | Emergency tire changes only | 1,000 - 1,500 | Compact, stored with spare tire | Unstable, slow, low capacity |
| Bottle Jack | Trucks, SUVs (high ground clearance) | 4,000 - 12,000+ | High lifting power, compact | Can be tippy on uneven ground |
The final check is to ensure the car is solidly on the stands before you slide underneath. Reversing the process, you lift the car slightly with the jack, remove the stands, and lower it completely.
