The Ultimate Guide to How to Jack Up a Car and Put it on Stands

Whether you’re a seasoned mechanic or a DIY enthusiast just starting out, knowing how to jack up a car and put it on stands is a crucial skill. This procedure is essential for various tasks, from changing tires and performing routine maintenance to tackling more complex repairs. However, improper jacking can lead to accidents and damage, making it vital to understand the correct techniques and safety precautions. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process, ensuring you can confidently lift your car and work on it with peace of mind.

Gathering Your Tools and Supplies

Before you begin, ensure you have all the necessary tools and supplies. You’ll need:

• A hydraulic floor jack: This is the most common type of jack used for lifting vehicles. Choose a jack with a lifting capacity that exceeds the weight of your car.
• Jack stands: These are crucial for supporting the weight of your car once it’s lifted. Always use two jack stands, placed under the vehicle’s frame at designated lift points. Ensure the jack stands have a weight capacity greater than your car’s weight.
• Lug wrench: This is used to loosen and tighten lug nuts.
• Chocks: These are essential for preventing the car from rolling while it’s lifted. Place chocks behind the rear tires to keep the car stationary.
• Gloves: Protect your hands from dirt and grime.
• Work light: A bright light will help you see what you’re doing.
• Safety glasses: Protect your eyes from flying debris.

Choosing the Right Jack Points

The jack points are specific locations on the vehicle’s frame designed for lifting. Consult your car’s owner’s manual to identify the correct jack points. These points are usually marked by a small indentation or a raised area.

Preparing Your Work Area

Before you start jacking up your car, ensure you have a safe and stable work area:

• Level Surface: Work on a flat, level surface, like a concrete driveway or garage floor. Avoid lifting the car on uneven ground, as this can make the jack unstable.
• Clear Space: Ensure there’s enough space around the car to safely lift and move around. Clear away any obstacles, including loose items, tools, and other vehicles.
• Emergency Brake: Engage the parking brake firmly to prevent the car from rolling.
• Chocks: Place chocks behind the rear tires to prevent the car from rolling forward or backward.

Lifting the Car with a Jack

Now, you’re ready to lift the car:

1. Position the Jack: Position the jack under the designated jack point, ensuring it’s directly beneath the lifting point.
2. Engage the Jack: Slowly crank the jack handle to lift the car. As the car rises, ensure the jack remains centered under the jack point.
3. Check for Stability: Once the car is slightly lifted, check its stability. If the jack seems unstable, immediately lower the car and reposition the jack.
4. Lift to Desired Height: Continue lifting the car until it’s high enough to place the jack stands. The goal is to have enough clearance to comfortably work under the vehicle.

Placing the Jack Stands

Once the car is lifted to the desired height, it’s time to place the jack stands:

1. Locate the Jack Stand Points: Consult your car’s owner’s manual to identify the appropriate jack stand points. These points are usually located on the vehicle’s frame, near the jack points.
2. Position the Jack Stands: Carefully position the jack stands under the designated points, ensuring they are securely in place.
3. Lower the Car onto the Jack Stands: Slowly lower the car onto the jack stands, ensuring the weight is evenly distributed. Once the car is resting on the jack stands, remove the jack.

Safety Precautions

It’s crucial to prioritize safety when working with a jacked-up car:

• Never Work Under a Car Supported Only by a Jack: Always use jack stands to support the weight of the car.
• Inspect the Jack and Stands: Before using any lifting equipment, inspect the jack and stands for damage or wear.
• Never Get Under the Car Without Jack Stands: Always use jack stands to support the car before getting underneath.
• Use a Block of Wood or a Sturdy Surface: Place a block of wood or a sturdy surface under the jack to prevent it from sinking into soft ground.
• Avoid Overloading the Jack: Never exceed the jack’s weight capacity.
• Never Use a Jack on a Sloped Surface: Always work on a flat, level surface.
• Keep Your Body Clear of the Car: Avoid getting under the car while it’s being lifted or lowered.
• Listen for Unusual Sounds: If you hear any unusual sounds while lifting the car, immediately stop and investigate.

Lowering the Car and Removing Jack Stands

Once you’ve finished working on your car, it’s time to lower it and remove the jack stands:

1. Raise the Car Slightly: Using the jack, raise the car slightly to relieve pressure on the jack stands.
2. Remove the Jack Stands: Carefully remove the jack stands, ensuring the car remains stable.
3. Lower the Car: Slowly lower the car using the jack until it’s resting on the ground.

The Final Word: Ensuring Safety and Efficiency

Knowing how to jack up a car and put it on stands is an essential skill for any car owner. By following these steps and prioritizing safety, you can confidently lift your car and tackle various maintenance and repair tasks. Remember, always consult your car’s owner’s manual for specific instructions and safety recommendations.

What You Need to Learn

What if I don’t have a jack stand?

It’s highly discouraged to work under a car supported only by a jack. Jack stands are crucial for safety and stability. If you don’t have jack stands, consider borrowing them from a friend or renting them from an auto parts store.

How do I know if my jack is strong enough?

Check the jack’s weight capacity, which is usually printed on the jack. Ensure the capacity is greater than the weight of your car.

How often should I inspect my jack and stands?

Inspect your jack and stands before each use. Look for any signs of damage, wear, or rust. If you notice any problems, replace the equipment immediately.

What are some common mistakes people make when jacking up a car?

Common mistakes include:

• Using the wrong jack points
• Not using jack stands
• Working under the car without proper support
• Overloading the jack
• Lifting the car on an uneven surface

What are some tips for choosing the right jack stands?

Choose jack stands with a weight capacity greater than your car’s weight. Look for stands made from durable materials like steel or cast iron. Consider stands with adjustable heights for greater versatility.