From Novice to Pro: How to Jack Up Both Sides of a Car Like a Mechanic

Knowing how to jack up both sides of a car is a valuable skill for any car owner. Whether you’re changing a flat tire, performing routine maintenance, or tackling a more complex repair, understanding the proper techniques and safety precautions is crucial. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of safely jacking up both sides of your vehicle, equipping you with the knowledge and confidence to handle any situation.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Before you begin, ensure you have the following tools and equipment on hand:

• 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 essential safety devices that hold the vehicle securely in place once it’s lifted. Ensure you have two jack stands, one for each side of the car.
• Lugs wrench: This is used to loosen and tighten the lug nuts on your wheels.
• Chocks: These are wedge-shaped blocks that prevent the car from rolling while you’re working. Place them behind the rear wheels if you’re jacking up the front, and vice versa.
• Gloves: Wearing gloves will protect your hands from dirt, grime, and potential injuries.

Choosing the Right Jacking Points

Before you start jacking up your car, it’s crucial to identify the correct jacking points. These are designated areas on the vehicle’s frame or undercarriage designed to safely support the weight of the car. Consult your owner’s manual or search online for your specific car model to locate the recommended jacking points.

Preparing the Vehicle

1. Park on a level surface: Ensure the car is parked on a flat, solid surface. This will prevent the car from rolling while you’re jacking it up.
2. Engage the parking brake: This will help to further secure the car and prevent it from rolling.
3. Shift the transmission into “Park” (automatic) or 1st gear (manual): This will help to prevent the car from rolling.
4. Place chocks behind the rear wheels (if jacking up the front) or the front wheels (if jacking up the rear): This will prevent the car from rolling.

Jacking Up the First Side

1. Position the jack: Locate the designated jacking point on the side of the car you want to lift. Position the jack under the jacking point, ensuring it’s firmly in place.
2. Raise the car slightly: Slowly pump the jack handle to raise the car just enough to clear the ground.
3. Position the jack stand: Place the jack stand under the jacking point, ensuring it’s securely in place. The jack stand should be positioned close to the jacking point to provide maximum stability.
4. Lower the jack slightly: Gently lower the jack handle to transfer the weight of the car from the jack to the jack stand. Ensure the jack stand is supporting the weight of the car before fully lowering the jack.
5. Remove the jack: Once the weight is fully transferred to the jack stand, remove the jack.

Jacking Up the Second Side

1. Repeat the process: Repeat the steps above for the other side of the car, ensuring you use a separate jack stand for each side.

Safety Precautions

• Never work under a car supported only by a jack: Always use jack stands to support the vehicle.
• Never crawl under a car that is not securely supported: Ensure the jack stands are firmly in place before you crawl under the car.
• Never use a jack to lift a car that is on an incline: This can cause the car to roll and result in serious injury.
• Always use the correct jacking points: Using the wrong jacking points can damage the car’s frame.
• Never exceed the jack’s lifting capacity: Overloading the jack can cause it to fail.

Important Considerations

• Check your owner’s manual: Always refer to your owner’s manual for specific instructions on jacking up your car.
• Use caution when lifting heavy objects: If you’re lifting heavy objects, such as an engine or transmission, use a lifting beam and additional jack stands for extra support.
• Keep a clear work area: Ensure there are no obstructions in the area where you’re working.
• Use proper lifting techniques: Avoid lifting heavy objects with your back. Use your legs to lift and lower objects.

The Final Touch: Completing the Job

Once you’ve finished your work, you can lower the car by reversing the process.

1. Raise the jack slightly: Carefully pump the jack handle to raise the car just enough to clear the jack stand.
2. Remove the jack stand: Once the car is clear of the jack stand, remove it.
3. Lower the car slowly: Gently lower the car using the jack until it rests on the ground.

The End of the Journey: Ensuring Safety and Success

By following these simple steps and safety precautions, you can confidently jack up both sides of your car and perform your desired tasks. Remember, always prioritize safety and consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: What if I don’t have jack stands?

A: It’s strongly advised against working under a car supported only by a jack. Jack stands are essential safety devices that prevent the car from falling if the jack fails. If you don’t have jack stands, consider borrowing them from a friend or neighbor or purchasing them from an auto parts store.

Q: Can I jack up a car on uneven ground?

A: No, it’s not safe to jack up a car on uneven ground. The car could roll or become unstable, leading to injury or damage. Ensure the car is parked on a flat, solid surface before jacking it up.

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

A: It’s good practice to inspect your jack and jack stands before each use. Check for any signs of damage, wear, or corrosion. If you find any issues, replace the jack or jack stands immediately.

Q: What if I’m unsure about the correct jacking points for my car?

A: Consult your owner’s manual or search online for your specific car model. You can also ask a mechanic or knowledgeable car enthusiast for guidance.