Safety First: How to Jack Up Acura TL Like a Pro
What To Know
- Once the car is lifted a few inches off the ground, place the jack stands under the frame rails, near the jacking points.
- Carefully lower the jack until the weight of the car is fully supported by the jack stands.
- Once the wheel is securely in place, lower the car using the jack until the wheel is resting on the ground.
Learning how to jack up your Acura TL is an essential skill for any car owner. Whether you need to change a flat tire, perform routine maintenance, or tackle a more complex repair, knowing how to safely lift your car is crucial. This comprehensive guide will break down the process step-by-step, ensuring you can confidently jack up your Acura TL without any hassle.
Gather Your Tools and Safety Gear
Before you begin, make sure you have the right tools and safety gear. You’ll need:
- A hydraulic floor jack: This is the most common type of jack for lifting cars. Choose one with a capacity of at least 2 tons, which is sufficient for an Acura TL.
- A set of jack stands: These are essential for supporting the car once it’s lifted. They should be rated for at least 2 tons as well.
- A lug wrench: This is used to loosen and tighten the lug nuts on your wheels.
- Gloves: These will protect your hands from dirt and grime.
- Safety glasses: Protect your eyes from flying debris.
- Chocks: These are essential for preventing the car from rolling while it’s jacked up.
Choosing the Right Jacking Points
The Acura TL has designated jacking points that are designed to support the weight of the car safely. These points are typically located on the frame rails, near the front and rear wheels. Consult your owner’s manual for the exact location of the jacking points on your specific Acura TL model year.
Preparing Your Acura TL for Jacking
1. Park on a level surface: Ensure the car is parked on a flat, solid surface. A driveway or parking lot is ideal.
2. Engage the parking brake: This will prevent the car from rolling while you’re working.
3. Shift the transmission into “Park” (automatic) or first gear (manual): This will further prevent the car from moving.
4. Chock the rear wheels: Place chocks behind the rear wheels to prevent the car from rolling backward.
Jacking Up Your Acura TL
1. Locate the jacking point: Identify the jacking point closest to the wheel you need to work on.
2. Position the jack: Place the jack directly under the jacking point. Make sure the jack is stable and secure.
3. Start lifting: Slowly pump the jack handle to lift the vehicle.
4. Place the jack stands: Once the car is lifted a few inches off the ground, place the jack stands under the frame rails, near the jacking points. Ensure the jack stands are secure and stable.
5. Lower the jack: Carefully lower the jack until the weight of the car is fully supported by the jack stands.
Removing and Replacing Wheels
1. Loosen the lug nuts: Use your lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts on the wheel you need to remove. Don’t remove them completely yet.
2. Finish lifting the car: If necessary, raise the car slightly more using the jack to make it easier to remove the wheel.
3. Remove the wheel: Once the lug nuts are loose, remove the wheel by hand.
4. Replace the wheel: To replace the wheel, reverse the process. Start by placing the wheel on the hub, then hand-tighten the lug nuts.
5. Lower the car: Once the wheel is securely in place, lower the car using the jack until the wheel is resting on the ground.
6. Tighten the lug nuts: Use the lug wrench to fully tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern.
Final Steps and Safety Tips
1. Remove the jack stands: Once the car is fully on the ground, remove the jack stands.
2. Lower the jack: Lower the jack completely and remove it from under the car.
3. Double-check your work: Ensure all lug nuts are tight, and the car is stable before driving away.
Maintaining Your Acura TL’s Jacking System
- Regularly inspect your jack and jack stands: Make sure they are in good working order and free of any damage.
- Lubricate the jack mechanism: This will help prevent rust and ensure smooth operation.
- Store your jack and jack stands properly: Keep them in a dry, safe location to prevent damage.
Beyond the Basics: Additional Jacking Tips
- Use a torque wrench to tighten lug nuts: This ensures the lug nuts are tightened to the correct specifications.
- Use a block of wood under the jack: This can help distribute the weight of the car more evenly and prevent damage to the jacking point.
- Never work under a car that’s only supported by a jack: Always use jack stands for safety.
- If you’re unsure about any part of the process, consult a mechanic: It’s always better to err on the side of caution when working on your car.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: How often should I inspect my jack and jack stands?
A: You should inspect your jack and jack stands at least once a year, or more often if you use them frequently.
Q: What should I do if I hear a grinding noise when using my jack?
A: A grinding noise could indicate that the jack is damaged or needs lubrication. It’s best to stop using the jack and have it inspected by a mechanic.
Q: Can I use a scissor jack to lift my Acura TL?
A: While a scissor jack may be included with your car, it’s not recommended for lifting the entire vehicle. Scissor jacks are designed for temporary use, such as changing a flat tire.
Q: What are the best jack stands for my Acura TL?
A: Look for jack stands that are rated for at least 2 tons and have a wide base for stability. You can find a variety of jack stands at auto parts stores or online retailers.
Learning how to jack up your Acura TL is a valuable skill that can save you time and money in the long run. By following these steps and safety tips, you can confidently lift your car and perform any necessary maintenance or repairs. Remember, if you’re ever unsure about anything, don’t hesitate to consult a professional mechanic.