Mastering the Art of How to Jack Up Nissan Altima: A Step-by-Step Guide
What To Know
- Whether you need to change a tire, perform an oil change, or inspect your undercarriage, this guide will walk you through the process of safely jacking up your Nissan Altima.
- Once the vehicle is slightly raised, position the jack stands under the designated jacking points on either side of the jack.
- The stands should be placed at a point that will support the vehicle’s weight when the jack is lowered.
If you’re a Nissan Altima owner who enjoys tackling your own car maintenance, knowing how to jack up your vehicle safely and efficiently is essential. Whether you need to change a tire, perform an oil change, or inspect your undercarriage, this guide will walk you through the process of safely jacking up your Nissan Altima.
Gather Your Tools
Before you begin, make sure you have the following tools:
- Jack: A hydraulic floor jack is recommended for its ease of use and lifting capacity. Ensure it’s rated for the weight of your Altima.
- Jack stands: These provide a stable platform to support your vehicle once it’s raised. Use two stands, one on either side of the jacking point.
- Lug wrench: This is used to loosen and tighten lug nuts.
- Chocks: These prevent your vehicle from rolling while it’s jacked up.
- Work gloves: Protect your hands from dirt and grime.
- Flat surface: Find a level, solid surface to work on. Avoid soft surfaces like gravel or grass.
Locate the Jacking Points
Your Nissan Altima has designated jacking points located on the frame of the vehicle. These points are designed to withstand the weight of the car and provide a secure lifting surface. Consult your owner’s manual for the exact location of your Altima’s jacking points. They are typically marked with a small triangle or a raised area on the frame.
Prepare Your Altima for Jacking
1. Engage the parking brake: This prevents your Altima from rolling while you’re working.
2. Shift into “Park” (automatic transmission) or “First gear” (manual transmission).
3. Chock the rear wheels: Place chocks behind the rear wheels to prevent the vehicle from rolling backward.
4. Open the hood and locate the jack: Most Nissan Altimas store the jack in a compartment under the hood.
Jacking Up Your Nissan Altima
1. Position the jack: Place the jack directly under the designated jacking point. Ensure the jack is positioned securely and that the lift arm is properly engaged.
2. Start lifting: Slowly raise the jack until the Altima is slightly lifted off the ground.
3. Place the jack stands: Once the vehicle is slightly raised, position the jack stands under the designated jacking points on either side of the jack. The stands should be placed at a point that will support the vehicle’s weight when the jack is lowered.
4. Lower the jack: Slowly lower the jack until the vehicle is resting securely on the jack stands.
5. Remove the jack: Once the vehicle is safely supported by the jack stands, you can remove the jack.
Working Under Your Altima
Now that your Nissan Altima is safely raised, you can proceed with your maintenance task. Remember to:
- Be mindful of your surroundings: Make sure you have enough space to work and that there are no obstacles in your way.
- Use caution: Always be aware of your surroundings and take care when working under the vehicle.
- Avoid touching hot exhaust components: Allow time for the exhaust system to cool before working near it.
- Keep tools organized: Have a designated spot for your tools to avoid losing them.
Lowering Your Altima
1. Raise the jack: Carefully raise the jack slightly to relieve the weight from the jack stands.
2. Remove the jack stands: Once the vehicle is slightly raised, remove the jack stands.
3. Lower the jack: Slowly lower the jack until the Altima is resting on the ground.
4. Remove the chocks: Once the vehicle is back on the ground, remove the chocks from behind the rear wheels.
5. Release the parking brake: Your Altima is now safely back on the ground.
Final Thoughts: A Safe and Successful Jacking Experience
By following these steps and taking necessary precautions, you can confidently jack up your Nissan Altima for routine maintenance or repairs. Remember to always refer to your owner’s manual for specific instructions regarding your vehicle.
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q: How much weight can the jacking points on my Nissan Altima hold?
A: The jacking points on your Nissan Altima are designed to withstand the weight of the vehicle. You should consult your owner’s manual for the specific weight capacity of your model.
Q: Can I use any jack to lift my Nissan Altima?
A: It’s crucial to use a jack that’s rated for the weight of your Altima. Using an undersized jack could result in a dangerous situation.
Q: Where can I find the jacking points on my Nissan Altima?
A: The jacking points are typically located on the frame of the vehicle, usually marked with a small triangle or a raised area. Consult your owner’s manual for the exact location.
Q: How often should I inspect my jack and jack stands?
A: Regularly inspect your jack and jack stands for any signs of damage or wear. If you notice any issues, replace them immediately.
Q: What if I can’t find the jacking points on my Altima?
A: If you have trouble locating the jacking points, consult your owner’s manual or contact a local Nissan dealership for assistance.