Master the Art of Lifting: How to Jack Up a Chevy HHR
What To Know
- Place chocks behind the rear wheels if you’re jacking up the front, and in front of the front wheels if you’re jacking up the rear.
- Once the vehicle is lifted just enough to clear the ground, carefully position the jack stands under the frame, directly below the jacking point.
- Once the vehicle is back on the ground, remove the jack and store it safely.
Are you ready to tackle some maintenance or repairs on your Chevy HHR? Whether you’re changing a tire, replacing brake pads, or simply need to access the undercarriage, knowing how to safely jack up your car is essential. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, ensuring you have the knowledge and confidence to lift your HHR without any mishaps.
Gathering Your Tools and Supplies
Before you start, gather the necessary tools and equipment. You’ll need:
- A hydraulic floor jack: This is the most common type of jack used for lifting cars. Ensure it has a lifting capacity that exceeds your HHR’s weight.
- Jack stands: These are crucial for supporting the vehicle once it’s lifted. Choose jack stands with a capacity that matches or exceeds the jack’s capacity.
- Lug wrench: This is used to loosen and tighten the lug nuts on your wheels.
- Chocks: These are essential for preventing the vehicle from rolling while it’s jacked up.
- Gloves: Protect your hands from dirt and potential scrapes.
- Work light: This will help you see what you’re doing, especially if you’re working in low light conditions.
Choosing the Right Jacking Point
Finding the correct jacking point is crucial for safety. Your Chevy HHR has designated jacking points located on the frame, marked with a small circle or a raised bump. Consult your owner’s manual for the exact locations. Never attempt to jack up your car on any other part of the body, as this can cause damage.
Preparing for the Lift
1. Park on a level surface: Ensure the ground is firm and stable.
2. Engage the parking brake: This will help prevent the vehicle from rolling.
3. Place wheel chocks: Place chocks behind the rear wheels if you’re jacking up the front, and in front of the front wheels if you’re jacking up the rear.
Lifting the Vehicle
1. Position the jack: Place the jack under the designated jacking point, ensuring it’s positioned securely and centered.
2. Begin lifting: Slowly and steadily pump the jack handle to raise the vehicle.
3. Place jack stands: Once the vehicle is lifted just enough to clear the ground, carefully position the jack stands under the frame, directly below the jacking point.
4. Lower the jack: Slowly lower the vehicle onto the jack stands. Ensure the vehicle is resting firmly on the stands before removing the jack.
Performing Your Work
Now that your Chevy HHR is safely supported, you can proceed with your maintenance or repairs. Remember to always use caution and follow safety guidelines.
Lowering the Vehicle
1. Raise the vehicle slightly: Use the jack to slightly lift the vehicle off the jack stands.
2. Remove the jack stands: Carefully remove the jack stands, ensuring the vehicle is still supported by the jack.
3. Lower the vehicle: Slowly lower the vehicle to the ground using the jack.
4. Remove the jack: Once the vehicle is back on the ground, remove the jack and store it safely.
Final Touches
1. Remove the wheel chocks: Once the vehicle is completely lowered, remove the wheel chocks.
2. Double-check for safety: Ensure the vehicle is stable and secure before driving away.
Driving Away Safely
Before driving away, make sure you have tightened all bolts and nuts to the correct torque specifications. Always drive slowly and cautiously for the first few miles after lifting your vehicle.
Beyond the Basics: Troubleshooting and Maintenance
Jack Not Working Properly: If your jack isn‘t lifting properly, check for any obstructions, ensure the jack is fully extended, and inspect the hydraulic fluid level.
Jack Stands Not Secure: If the jack stands are not secure, double-check their placement and ensure they are fully engaged.
Vehicle Rolling: If the vehicle starts to roll, immediately stop the lifting process and re-engage the parking brake or add additional wheel chocks.
Jacking Point Damage: If you notice any damage to the jacking points, have them inspected and repaired by a qualified mechanic.
Wrapping Up: A Safe and Secure Lift
By following these steps, you can safely and confidently jack up your Chevy HHR for any maintenance or repair needs. Remember to prioritize safety throughout the entire process and always refer to your owner’s manual for specific instructions and warnings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How high should I lift my Chevy HHR?
A: Lift your HHR just high enough to clear the ground and allow for the installation of jack stands. Avoid lifting it too high, as this can put unnecessary strain on the jack and the vehicle’s suspension.
Q: Can I use a scissor jack instead of a hydraulic jack?
A: While scissor jacks are convenient for changing tires, they are not recommended for lifting a vehicle for extended periods or for more complex repairs. Hydraulic jacks offer greater lifting capacity and stability.
Q: What happens if I jack up my Chevy HHR on the wrong point?
A: Jacking up your HHR on an incorrect point can cause damage to the body or suspension. Always refer to your owner’s manual for the designated jacking points.
Q: Should I always use jack stands?
A: It is highly recommended to always use jack stands when lifting your vehicle. This provides an extra layer of safety and prevents the vehicle from falling if the jack fails.
Q: How often should I inspect my jack and jack stands?
A: It’s a good practice to inspect your jack and jack stands regularly for any signs of wear, damage, or corrosion. If you notice any issues, replace them immediately.