Essential Tips for Safely Jacking Up Your Subaru Crosstrek

The Subaru Crosstrek, known for its ruggedness and versatility, can take you on various adventures. But what happens when you encounter a flat tire or need to perform maintenance that requires lifting your Crosstrek? Knowing how to jack up your Subaru Crosstrek safely and efficiently is crucial. This blog post will guide you through the process, step-by-step, equipping you with the knowledge and confidence to handle any situation.

Gathering Your Tools: What You’ll Need

Before you start jacking up your Subaru Crosstrek, ensure you have the following tools readily available:

• Jack: Your Subaru Crosstrek comes equipped with a factory jack, typically located in a compartment under the cargo floor.
• Lug Wrench: This is also included with your vehicle and is used to loosen and tighten lug nuts.
• Wheel Chocks: These are essential for preventing the vehicle from rolling while it’s lifted.
• Flat Tire Repair Kit (Optional): If you have a flat tire, a repair kit can help you get back on the road.
• Work Gloves (Optional): These can protect your hands from dirt and grime.

Finding the Right Spot: Choosing Your Jacking Points

The Subaru Crosstrek has designated jacking points, which are reinforced areas designed to handle the weight of the vehicle. These points are crucial for safe and effective lifting:

• Front Jacking Points: There are two jacking points located on the front frame rails, near the front wheels.
• Rear Jacking Points: Two jacking points are located on the rear frame rails, near the rear wheels.

Preparing Your Subaru Crosstrek for Lifting

Before you start jacking up your Crosstrek, take the following steps to ensure safety:

1. Park on a Level Surface: Find a level and solid surface to park your Crosstrek. Uneven ground can make the jack unstable.
2. Engage the Parking Brake: Always engage the parking brake to prevent the vehicle from rolling.
3. Place Wheel Chocks: Position wheel chocks behind the rear wheels if you are lifting the front, and in front of the front wheels if you are lifting the rear.
4. Loosen the Lug Nuts: Slightly loosen the lug nuts on the wheel you’re going to remove. This makes it easier to remove the wheel once the vehicle is lifted.

The Jacking Process: Step-by-Step Guide

Now, follow these steps to safely jack up your Subaru Crosstrek:

1. Position the Jack: Place the jack directly under the designated jacking point.
2. Start Lifting: Slowly and gradually pump the jack handle to lift the vehicle.
3. Reach the Lifting Height: Lift the vehicle until the tire is slightly off the ground, providing enough clearance to remove the wheel.
4. Remove the Lug Nuts: Carefully remove the lug nuts and set them aside.
5. Remove the Wheel: Once the lug nuts are removed, gently pull the wheel off the hub.

Lowering Your Subaru Crosstrek: Reversing the Process

After you’ve completed your work under the vehicle, follow these steps to lower your Crosstrek:

1. Replace the Wheel: Align the wheel with the hub and gently push it back on.
2. Install the Lug Nuts: Start threading the lug nuts by hand, ensuring they are evenly tightened.
3. Lower the Vehicle: Slowly lower the jack until the tire is back on the ground.
4. Tighten the Lug Nuts: Use the lug wrench to tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern, ensuring they are securely fastened.
5. Remove the Jack: Remove the jack and store it safely.
6. Release the Parking Brake: Once the vehicle is safely on the ground, release the parking brake.

Safety First: Essential Precautions

While jacking up your Subaru Crosstrek might seem straightforward, safety is paramount. Always follow these safety precautions:

• Use the Correct Jack: Only use the jack that came with your Subaru Crosstrek. Using an incorrect jack can lead to accidents.
• Avoid Overlifting: Never lift the vehicle higher than necessary. Overlifting can strain the jack and potentially cause it to fail.
• Never Work Under the Vehicle Without Support: Never attempt to work under the vehicle without proper support. Use jack stands to ensure the vehicle is securely supported.
• Stay Clear of Moving Parts: Be aware of moving parts like the engine and transmission and avoid contact with them.
• Use Caution When Handling Heavy Objects: When handling heavy objects like wheels, use proper lifting techniques to avoid injuries.

Beyond the Basics: Additional Tips and Considerations

• Regularly Inspect Your Jack: Ensure your jack is in good working condition and lubricated regularly.
• Consider a Hydraulic Floor Jack: If you frequently work on your vehicle, a hydraulic floor jack can provide more stability and ease of use.
• Invest in Jack Stands: Jack stands offer extra safety and stability, especially when working on more complex tasks under the vehicle.

Wrapping Up: Mastering the Lift

Knowing how to jack up your Subaru Crosstrek safely and efficiently is a valuable skill for any owner. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can confidently handle any situation that requires lifting your vehicle. Remember, safety is always the top priority.

Questions You May Have

Q1: How often should I inspect my jack?

A1: It’s recommended to inspect your jack at least once a year, or more frequently if you use it often. Look for signs of wear, damage, or corrosion.

Q2: Can I use a jack from a different car on my Subaru Crosstrek?

A2: No, it’s strongly advised against using a jack from a different vehicle. Each jack is designed for specific vehicle weights and jacking points.

Q3: What should I do if I hear a grinding noise when lifting my Crosstrek?

A3: If you hear a grinding noise, immediately stop lifting and investigate the source of the sound. It could indicate a problem with the jack or a loose part.

Q4: Is it necessary to use wheel chocks when jacking up my Subaru Crosstrek?

A4: Yes, wheel chocks are crucial to prevent the vehicle from rolling. They provide an extra layer of safety during the jacking process.

Q5: What are some common mistakes people make when jacking up their cars?

A5: Common mistakes include using the wrong jack, lifting the vehicle too high, working under the vehicle without support, and failing to tighten the lug nuts properly.