Where to Place the Jack When Changing a Car Tire?
2 Answers
When changing a car tire, the jack is generally placed about 10 to 20 centimeters away from the tire. Below are the precautions for using a jack: Do not jack up the chassis guard plate: The jack should not directly lift the chassis guard plate or the lower control arm of the suspension. Incorrect use of the jack or supporting it in the wrong place can easily cause damage to the vehicle. Choose a hard surface: The ground supporting the jack should preferably be a hard surface. Soft surfaces: On softer surfaces like sand, grass, or mud, it is recommended to place a hard wooden board or stone slab under the jack to prevent it from sinking or slipping.
As a novice driver, I was really nervous the first time I changed a tire—I didn’t even know where to place the jack. After checking the manual, I learned that for sedans, there are usually dedicated support points under the body near the tires, such as small notches or marked spots on the sill panel. Avoid placing it randomly on the wheel arch or plastic panels, as this could damage the undercarriage. The ground must be level—I almost had the car slip on soft soil once, but luckily someone reminded me to engage the handbrake and put it in gear. I’d recommend beginners practice beforehand and bring aids like wooden blocks for stability. Never crouch under the car while the jack is raised—safety first! After changing the tire, remember to tighten the lug nuts and lower the jack properly.
