Why won't the jack lower?
4 Answers
When a jack won't lower, it's usually due to a stuck check valve, which requires maintenance or replacement. Additional information about jacks: 1. Jack: A compact lifting device that uses rigid lifting components as working mechanisms to raise heavy objects through small movements of either the top support seat or bottom support claws. Jacks are primarily used in factories, mines, transportation sectors for vehicle repairs and other lifting/support tasks. They feature lightweight yet sturdy construction, flexible operation, and can be carried and operated by a single person. 2. Principle: Hydraulic jacks operate on Pascal's Law - equal pressure throughout a confined liquid. In a balanced system, applying small pressure to a smaller piston creates proportionally greater pressure on a larger piston, maintaining liquid equilibrium.
Last time my car was lifted, the jack wouldn’t come down and got stuck—it was so frustrating. It’s probably because the hydraulic jack leaked oil or got air inside, causing insufficient pressure to lower it. The mechanical parts might also be rusted and jammed, especially if left in damp conditions for too long. Another common issue is a clogged release valve that won’t function. First, check if the oil level is normal; if low, top up with hydraulic oil. Try slowly turning the release valve to see if it loosens. If it still doesn’t work, don’t force it—you might damage the car or even hurt yourself. The safest option is to drive to a repair shop and let a professional handle it. Remember, regular jack maintenance is crucial: lubricate it lightly before and after each tire change to extend its lifespan and avoid last-minute failures.
I'm an experienced driver and have seen many cases of jack malfunctions. There are usually several reasons why a jack won't lower: the most common is improper use, such as incorrect angles when jacking that jam the gears or screw; hydraulic types may have dirty oil clogging the pipes; or mechanical jacks may get stuck due to dirt or rust. Additionally, some low-quality products have poor durability and internal damage that prevents proper lowering. For solutions, first ensure the ground is level and try slowly rotating the lowering mechanism to loosen any rust. If that doesn't work, don't waste time struggling—just replace the jack with a new one. Buying a reputable brand on the market won't cost more than a few hundred bucks and is safer and more reliable. Store it away from rain and perform regular cleaning and lubrication annually to prevent such troubles.
It's really scary when the jack won't lower. Last time my husband encountered this while changing a tire. Most likely it's due to hydraulic system failure or stuck components, like when the hydraulic rod won't move after rusting. For simple checks, see if the oil reservoir is empty or contaminated. Or try gently tapping the jack body to loosen it up. But don't force it - it's dangerous! If the car suddenly drops, it could crush someone. If you're not sure how to fix it, stop immediately and call professional roadside assistance. By the way, most passenger car jacks are stored in the spare tire compartment. Don't wait until you need it - it's recommended to check its condition every six months. It's also good practice to do a quick lift test before long trips.
