Mastering the Art of How to Jack Up a 2016 Ford Explorer: Your Step-by-Step Tutorial

Are you ready to tackle your next car maintenance or repair project? Whether you’re changing a tire, performing an oil change, or simply need to access the undercarriage of your 2016 Ford Explorer, knowing how to properly jack up your vehicle is essential. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process, ensuring you can safely and effectively lift your Explorer for any task.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Before you begin, gather the necessary tools and equipment to ensure a smooth and safe experience:

• Jack: A hydraulic floor jack is recommended for lifting your Explorer. Ensure it has a lifting capacity that exceeds your vehicle’s weight.
• Jack Stands: These are crucial for supporting the vehicle once it’s lifted, ensuring your safety. Select jack stands with a capacity that matches or exceeds the jack’s lifting capacity.
• Lug Wrench: A sturdy lug wrench is essential for removing and tightening lug nuts.
• Chocks: Place chocks behind the rear wheels to prevent the vehicle from rolling while you work.
• Work Gloves: Protect your hands from dirt and potential injuries.
• Flat Surface: Ensure you’re working on a level, solid surface.

Safety First: Understanding the Risks

Jacking up a vehicle involves inherent risks. Always prioritize safety by following these precautions:

• Never work under a vehicle supported only by the jack. Always use jack stands to provide stable support.
• Park on a level surface. An uneven surface can cause the vehicle to shift or fall.
• Engage the parking brake. This prevents the vehicle from rolling while you’re working.
• Use chocks on the rear wheels. This provides an additional layer of safety against accidental movement.
• Never work under a vehicle alone. Always have someone nearby in case of an emergency.

Locating the Jack Points

The 2016 Ford Explorer has designated jack points strategically placed on the frame for safe and effective lifting. These points are typically located:

• Front Jack Points: On the frame rails, near the front wheels.
• Rear Jack Points: On the frame rails, near the rear wheels.

Consult your owner’s manual for precise locations and diagrams of the jack points on your specific Explorer model.

Step-by-Step Guide to Jacking Up Your 2016 Ford Explorer

Now, let’s walk through the process of safely jacking up your 2016 Ford Explorer:

1. Prepare the Vehicle:

• Park the vehicle on a level, solid surface.
• Engage the parking brake.
• Place chocks behind the rear wheels to prevent rolling.
• Open the hood and locate the jack and jack stands.

2. Locate the Jack Point:

• Refer to your owner’s manual to identify the correct jack point for the task at hand.
• Ensure the jack point is free of debris and obstructions.

3. Position the Jack:

• Position the jack directly under the designated jack point.
• Ensure the jack is securely positioned and in contact with the jack point.

4. Begin Lifting:

• Slowly and carefully begin lifting the vehicle with the jack.
• Lift the vehicle just enough to clear the ground for the jack stands.

5. Place the Jack Stands:

• Position the jack stands under the vehicle, ensuring they are on a solid, flat surface.
• Lower the vehicle onto the jack stands, ensuring it rests securely on the stands.
• Once the vehicle is resting on the jack stands, remove the jack.

6. Perform Your Work:

• With the vehicle safely supported, you can now perform your necessary maintenance or repair tasks.

7. Lowering the Vehicle:

• When finished, carefully raise the vehicle using the jack to remove the jack stands.
• Once the vehicle is lifted enough to clear the jack stands, carefully lower it to the ground.
• Remove the jack stands and chocks.

Important Considerations

• Never exceed the jack’s lifting capacity.
• Always use jack stands for support.
• Ensure the vehicle is securely resting on the jack stands.
• Never work under a vehicle supported only by the jack.
• If you are unsure about any aspect of the process, consult a professional mechanic.

Beyond the Basics: Additional Tips

• Use a torque wrench to tighten lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specifications.
• Clean and lubricate the jack points regularly to prevent rust and corrosion.
• Inspect the jack and jack stands before each use to ensure they are in good condition.

Time to Get Started!

Now that you’re equipped with the knowledge and confidence to safely jack up your 2016 Ford Explorer, you can confidently tackle your next car maintenance or repair project. Remember to prioritize safety and follow the steps outlined in this guide. Happy wrenching!

Answers to Your Questions

Q: What if I don’t have a jack and jack stands?
A: It’s essential to have a jack and jack stands for safe vehicle lifting. If you don’t have them, consider purchasing them or seeking assistance from a professional mechanic.

Q: How often should I inspect my jack and jack stands?
A: It’s recommended to inspect your jack and jack stands before each use to ensure they are in good working condition.

Q: Can I use a scissor jack to lift my Ford Explorer?
A: While a scissor jack is included with your vehicle, it’s not recommended for lifting the entire vehicle. Scissor jacks are primarily designed for tire changes and may not provide adequate support for other tasks.

Q: What are some signs that my jack or jack stands need to be replaced?
A: Look for signs of damage, rust, or wear on the jack and jack stands. If you notice any of these issues, replace them immediately.

Q: Is it okay to use a regular floor jack to lift my Ford Explorer?
A: Yes, a regular floor jack is suitable for lifting your Ford Explorer as long as it has a lifting capacity that exceeds your vehicle’s weight.