Unlock the Key: How To Jack Up 2018 Toyota Highlander Safely and Effectively!

The 2018 Toyota Highlander is a reliable and versatile SUV, but like any vehicle, it may require occasional maintenance or repairs that necessitate lifting it off the ground. Knowing how to jack up your Highlander safely and effectively is crucial for these situations. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, ensuring you can confidently handle any undercarriage work.

Gather Your Tools and Supplies

Before you begin, ensure you have the following tools and supplies readily available:

• Jack: A hydraulic floor jack with a lifting capacity of at least 2 tons is recommended for a Highlander.
• Jack Stands: A set of two or more sturdy jack stands with a capacity of at least 3 tons is essential for safety.
• Lug Wrench: A lug wrench that fits your Highlander’s lug nuts is necessary to loosen and tighten the wheels.
• Chocks: Wheel chocks are crucial for preventing the vehicle from rolling while it’s jacked up.
• Flat, Level Surface: Find a flat, firm, and level surface to work on. Avoid loose gravel or uneven ground.
• Gloves: Wearing gloves will protect your hands from dirt and grime.
• Safety Glasses: Safety glasses will shield your eyes from debris.

Choosing the Right Jacking Points

The 2018 Toyota Highlander has designated jacking points located on the frame, specifically designed to handle the weight of the vehicle safely. These points are typically marked with a small triangle or a raised lip.

• Front Jacking Points: Locate the jacking points on the front frame rails, near the front wheels.
• Rear Jacking Points: The rear jacking points are situated on the frame rails, near the rear wheels.

Preparing the Vehicle for Jacking

1. Engage the Parking Brake: Ensure the parking brake is firmly engaged to prevent the vehicle from rolling while you’re working.
2. Shift into “Park” (Automatic) or “First Gear” (Manual): This adds an extra layer of security against unintended movement.
3. Chock the Wheels: Place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels if you’re jacking up the front, and behind the front wheels if you’re jacking up the rear. This prevents the vehicle from rolling backward or forward.
4. Loosen Lug Nuts: Use the lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts on the wheel you’ll be removing, but don’t remove them completely. This will make it easier to remove the wheel once the vehicle is lifted.

Jacking Up the 2018 Toyota Highlander

1. Position the Jack: Carefully position the jack under the designated jacking point on the frame. Ensure the jack is securely placed and stable.
2. Start Lifting: Slowly begin lifting the vehicle using the jack. Pay close attention to the movement and ensure the jack is lifting the vehicle evenly.
3. Reach Lifting Height: Lift the vehicle just high enough to clear the ground by a few inches. This will allow you to safely place the jack stands.
4. Position Jack Stands: Place the jack stands under the frame, directly below the jacking points. Ensure the stands are securely positioned and stable.
5. Lower the Vehicle Onto Jack Stands: Slowly lower the vehicle onto the jack stands until the weight is fully supported.
6. Remove the Jack: Carefully remove the jack from under the vehicle.

Working Under the Vehicle

Now that the vehicle is safely supported by the jack stands, you can proceed with your maintenance or repairs.

• Remember to always use caution when working under a raised vehicle.
• Never crawl under the vehicle unless it’s fully supported by jack stands.
• If you need to move the vehicle, lower it onto the ground and reposition the jack stands before lifting it again.

Lowering the Vehicle

1. Raise the Vehicle Slightly: Use the jack to raise the vehicle slightly to relieve the pressure on the jack stands.
2. Remove Jack Stands: Carefully remove the jack stands from under the vehicle.
3. Lower the Vehicle to the Ground: Slowly lower the vehicle to the ground using the jack.
4. Tighten Lug Nuts: Tighten the lug nuts fully with the lug wrench.
5. Remove Chocks: Remove the wheel chocks.
6. Release the Parking Brake: Release the parking brake.

Safety Precautions

• Always use caution when working with a jack and jack stands.
• Never work under a vehicle that is supported only by a jack.
• Never place yourself or any part of your body directly under the vehicle while it is being lifted or lowered.
• Always use jack stands that are rated for the weight of your vehicle.
• Inspect the jack and jack stands for damage before each use.
• If you are unsure about any aspect of this process, consult a qualified mechanic.

Final Thoughts: A Safe and Secure Experience

Knowing how to safely jack up your 2018 Toyota Highlander equips you with the confidence to handle routine maintenance and repairs. By following these steps and prioritizing safety, you can ensure a smooth and secure experience when working under your vehicle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use a scissor jack to jack up my Highlander?

A: While a scissor jack may work for changing a tire, it is not recommended for general maintenance work. Scissor jacks are less stable than hydraulic floor jacks and may not be able to handle the weight of the Highlander safely.

Q: Can I jack up my Highlander on uneven ground?

A: No, it is not safe to jack up your Highlander on uneven ground. The vehicle may become unstable and could tip over. Always find a flat, level surface to work on.

Q: How often should I inspect my jack and jack stands?

A: You should inspect your jack and jack stands before each use. Look for any signs of damage, such as cracks, dents, or rust. If you find any damage, do not use the jack or jack stands.

Q: What should I do if I can’t find the jacking points on my Highlander?

A: If you can’t find the jacking points, consult your owner’s manual or contact a Toyota dealership. They can provide you with the correct location of the jacking points.