Mastering the Art of How to Jack Up Lexus IS250: Tips and Tricks
What To Know
- Place the jack under the designated jack point on the side of the car you’re working on.
- Once the car is slightly raised, carefully position the jack stands under the frame rails, near the jack points.
- Once the car is safely supported by the jack stands, remove the lug nuts completely and pull the wheel off the hub.
The Lexus IS250 is a sleek and stylish sedan known for its performance and luxury. But like any car, it may require maintenance or repairs that necessitate lifting it off the ground. Knowing how to jack up your IS250 safely and effectively is essential for any owner who wants to tackle basic car care tasks themselves. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process, step-by-step.
Gather Your Tools and Materials
Before you begin, ensure you have the following tools and materials:
- Jack: A hydraulic jack specifically designed for your car’s weight. Check your owner’s manual for the recommended jack capacity.
- Jack Stands: Two sturdy jack stands capable of supporting the weight of your IS250.
- Lug Wrench: A lug wrench that fits your IS250’s lug nuts.
- Chocks: Wheel chocks to prevent the car from rolling.
- Work Gloves: Protective gloves to enhance grip and prevent injury.
- Level Surface: A flat, solid surface to park your car on.
Locate the Jack Points
The Lexus IS250 has designated jack points designed for safe and secure lifting. These points are usually marked with a small triangle or other symbol on the underside of the car. Refer to your owner’s manual for the exact location of the jack points.
Prepare the Car for Lifting
1. Park on a Level Surface: Ensure the car is parked on a firm, level surface. Avoid lifting the car on uneven ground or soft surfaces like gravel.
2. Engage the Parking Brake: Apply the parking brake firmly to prevent the car from rolling while lifting.
3. Chock the Wheels: Place wheel chocks behind the front and rear wheels opposite the side you’ll be jacking up. This prevents the car from rolling in any direction.
Jack Up the Car
1. Position the Jack: Place the jack under the designated jack point on the side of the car you’re working on.
2. Raise the Car Gradually: Slowly pump the jack handle to lift the car. Do not lift the car too high at once.
3. Place the Jack Stands: Once the car is slightly raised, carefully position the jack stands under the frame rails, near the jack points.
4. Lower the Car onto the Stands: Slowly lower the car onto the jack stands. Ensure the car is firmly resting on the stands before removing the jack.
Removing the Wheels
1. Loosen the Lug Nuts: Before lifting the car, slightly loosen the lug nuts on the wheel you want to remove. This will make it easier to remove the wheel after the car is lifted.
2. Remove the Wheel: Once the car is safely supported by the jack stands, remove the lug nuts completely and pull the wheel off the hub.
Completing the Task
After completing your maintenance or repairs, reverse the process.
1. Secure the Wheel: Place the wheel back on the hub and tighten the lug nuts by hand.
2. Lower the Car: Slowly lower the car using the jack until the wheels are just touching the ground.
3. Tighten the Lug Nuts: Tighten the lug nuts using the lug wrench in a star pattern, ensuring they are securely fastened.
4. Remove the Jack Stands: Once the lug nuts are tight, carefully remove the jack stands.
5. Lower the Car Completely: Lower the car to the ground.
6. Remove the Chocks: Remove the wheel chocks.
7. Release the Parking Brake: Release the parking brake.
Final Thoughts: Safe and Secure Lifting
Knowing how to jack up your Lexus IS250 safely and efficiently is a valuable skill for any car owner. By following these steps and using the right tools, you can confidently tackle basic maintenance tasks yourself, saving time and money. Always prioritize safety and never hesitate to consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions and warnings.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: How much weight can my car’s jack handle?
A: Check your owner’s manual for the recommended jack capacity. It’s crucial to use a jack that can safely support the weight of your IS250.
Q: Where are the jack points on my Lexus IS250?
A: Refer to your owner’s manual for the exact locations of the jack points. They are typically marked with a small triangle or symbol on the underside of the car.
Q: How do I know if I’m using the jack stands correctly?
A: Ensure the jack stands are placed on a solid, flat surface and are firmly under the frame rails, near the jack points. The car should be resting securely on the stands before removing the jack.
Q: What if I’m not comfortable jacking up my car myself?
A: If you’re unsure about any aspect of the process, it’s always best to consult a qualified mechanic. They can safely and efficiently lift your car for any maintenance or repairs.