Don’t Miss Out: Learn How to Jack Up a 2018 Ford Edge with Ease
What To Know
- A hydraulic floor jack with a lifting capacity of at least 2 tons is recommended for a 2018 Ford Edge.
- Once the vehicle is lifted to a safe height, place the jack stands under the frame, near the jack points.
- A general rule of thumb is to lift the vehicle high enough to allow you to comfortably work underneath, but not so high that it becomes unstable.
Whether you’re changing a flat tire, performing routine maintenance, or tackling a more complex repair, knowing how to safely jack up your 2018 Ford Edge is essential. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, ensuring you have the knowledge and confidence to lift your vehicle securely.
Gather Your Tools and Supplies
Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary tools and supplies on hand:
- Jack: A hydraulic floor jack with a lifting capacity of at least 2 tons is recommended for a 2018 Ford Edge.
- Jack Stands: Always use jack stands to support the vehicle while it’s lifted. Two stands are generally sufficient for most tasks.
- Lug Wrench: This is used to loosen and tighten the lug nuts on your wheels.
- Chocks: Place chocks behind the rear wheels to prevent the vehicle from rolling while it’s jacked up.
- Gloves: Protecting your hands is always a good idea when working under a car.
- Work Light: A good work light will help you see what you’re doing, especially if you’re working in low-light conditions.
Find the Jack Points
The 2018 Ford Edge has designated jack points located on the vehicle’s frame. These points are designed to safely support the weight of the vehicle when it’s jacked up. You can find the jack points by:
1. Consulting Your Owner’s Manual: The owner’s manual will have a diagram showing the exact location of the jack points.
2. Looking Under the Vehicle: The jack points are typically located near the front and rear wheels, usually marked with small raised bumps or indentations.
Prepare the Vehicle for Lifting
1. Park on a Level Surface: It’s crucial to ensure your vehicle is parked on a level, solid surface. This will prevent the vehicle from rolling while it’s jacked up.
2. Engage the Parking Brake: Always engage the parking brake to prevent the vehicle from rolling.
3. Chock the Rear Wheels: Place chocks behind the rear wheels to keep the vehicle from rolling forward or backward.
Jack Up the Vehicle
1. Position the Jack: Place the jack under the designated jack point, ensuring it’s securely positioned.
2. Raise the Vehicle: Slowly and carefully pump the jack handle to raise the vehicle until the desired height is achieved.
3. Place Jack Stands: Once the vehicle is lifted to a safe height, place the jack stands under the frame, near the jack points. These stands should be positioned securely to support the vehicle’s weight.
4. Lower the Jack: Carefully lower the jack, ensuring the weight of the vehicle is fully supported by the jack stands.
Perform Your Task
Now that your vehicle is safely supported, you can perform the necessary task, whether it’s changing a tire, inspecting the undercarriage, or performing repairs.
Lowering the Vehicle
1. Remove Jack Stands: Carefully remove the jack stands, making sure the vehicle is still supported by the jack.
2. Lower the Vehicle: Slowly lower the vehicle using the jack until it rests on the ground.
3. Remove the Jack: Once the vehicle is fully on the ground, remove the jack and store it safely.
Final Thoughts: Safe Lifting is Paramount
Remember, safety should always be your top priority when working on your vehicle. Always follow the instructions in your owner’s manual and use caution when lifting and supporting your 2018 Ford Edge.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: How high should I jack up my Ford Edge?
A: The height you jack up your vehicle will depend on the task you’re performing. For a tire change, you’ll need to lift the vehicle high enough to remove the tire. For other tasks, you may need to lift it higher. A general rule of thumb is to lift the vehicle high enough to allow you to comfortably work underneath, but not so high that it becomes unstable.
Q: What if I don’t have jack stands?
A: Never rely solely on a jack to support your vehicle. Jack stands are essential for safety and should always be used whenever a vehicle is lifted.
Q: Can I use a scissor jack to lift my Ford Edge?
A: While scissor jacks are included with many vehicles, they are not designed to support the weight of a vehicle for extended periods. It’s best to use a hydraulic floor jack and jack stands for any repairs or maintenance that requires lifting the vehicle.
Q: What if I can’t find the jack points on my Ford Edge?
A: If you can’t locate the jack points, consult your owner’s manual or contact a Ford dealership for assistance. Never attempt to lift your vehicle without knowing the correct jack points.