How to Jack Up Tesla Model S: Ultimate Guide for Safe Lifting
What To Know
- The most common jacking points for the front are located just behind the front wheels, where you’ll find a small, raised bump on the frame rail.
- Ensure you are working on a flat, solid surface to prevent the car from rolling or tilting during the jacking process.
- Once the vehicle is lifted sufficiently, position the jack stands under the frame rails at the designated jacking points.
The Tesla Model S is a stunning electric vehicle known for its performance and sleek design. But just like any other car, it might require occasional maintenance or repairs that necessitate lifting it off the ground. This is where knowing how to jack up a Tesla Model S safely and effectively becomes crucial. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, ensuring you can confidently tackle any undercarriage work.
Understanding the Jacking Points
Before diving into the jacking process, it’s essential to understand where the designated jacking points on your Model S are located. These points are strategically designed to support the weight of the vehicle safely and prevent damage to the undercarriage.
Front Jacking Points:
- Front: The most common jacking points for the front are located just behind the front wheels, where you’ll find a small, raised bump on the frame rail.
Rear Jacking Points:
- Rear: The rear jacking points are situated near the rear wheels, also on the frame rail, looking for a similar raised bump.
Gathering Your Tools
Before you begin, ensure you have the following tools readily available:
- Tesla-approved jack: Using a jack designed specifically for your Tesla Model S is crucial for safety and optimal lifting. It’s recommended to use the factory-supplied jack that came with your car.
- Jack stands: Jack stands are essential for safely supporting the vehicle once it’s lifted. They provide a stable platform and prevent the car from falling if the jack fails.
- Lug wrench: You’ll need a lug wrench to loosen and tighten the lug nuts securing the wheels.
- Chocks: Place chocks behind the wheels that remain on the ground to prevent the car from rolling.
- Work gloves: Gloves will protect your hands from dirt and potential scratches.
- Level surface: Ensure you are working on a flat, solid surface to prevent the car from rolling or tilting during the jacking process.
Preparing Your Tesla Model S
1. Parking Safely: Park your Tesla Model S on a level, solid surface. Engage the parking brake and ensure the transmission is in “Park” to prevent accidental movement.
2. Chock the Wheels: Place chocks behind the wheels that will remain on the ground to prevent the car from rolling.
3. Locate the Jacking Points: Identify the designated jacking points on your Model S, as described earlier.
Lifting Your Tesla Model S
1. Position the Jack: Carefully place the jack under the designated jacking point, ensuring it’s securely positioned and centered.
2. Start Lifting: Begin lifting the vehicle slowly and steadily. Use the jack’s handle to crank it upwards until the vehicle is raised to the desired height.
3. Place Jack Stands: Once the vehicle is lifted sufficiently, position the jack stands under the frame rails at the designated jacking points. The stands should be firmly secured and provide a stable platform.
4. Lower the Jack: Carefully lower the jack until the weight of the vehicle is fully supported by the jack stands. Ensure the jack is completely removed from under the car.
Working Safely Under Your Tesla Model S
Now that your Tesla Model S is safely lifted, you can proceed with your maintenance or repairs. However, remember to always exercise caution when working under a vehicle:
- Stay Alert: Be aware of your surroundings and any potential hazards.
- Don’t Work Alone: If possible, have someone assist you, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the task.
- Secure Tools: Keep tools organized and within reach to avoid reaching or stretching excessively.
- Clear Work Area: Ensure the area under the vehicle is clear of debris or anything that could cause a trip hazard.
Lowering Your Tesla Model S
1. Remove Jack Stands: Carefully remove the jack stands, ensuring the vehicle remains stable and supported by the jack.
2. Lower the Vehicle: Slowly lower the vehicle using the jack until it rests firmly on the ground.
3. Remove the Jack: Once the vehicle is fully lowered, remove the jack and store it safely.
4. Re-Tighten Lug Nuts: After lowering the vehicle, ensure the lug nuts are tightened securely.
The Importance of Using the Correct Jack
Using a jack specifically designed for your Tesla Model S is crucial for several reasons:
- Safety: A Tesla-approved jack is engineered to handle the weight of the vehicle safely and prevent accidents.
- Stability: It provides a secure and stable lifting point, minimizing the risk of the car slipping or falling.
- Damage Prevention: Using the wrong jack can damage the jacking points or the undercarriage.
- Warranty: Using a non-approved jack may void your vehicle’s warranty.
What to Do If Your Jack Fails
While using a Tesla-approved jack is highly recommended, it’s crucial to know what to do if it fails during the lifting process:
- Don’t Panic: Remain calm and assess the situation.
- Try to Stabilize: If possible, try to stabilize the vehicle using other tools or objects, such as sturdy blocks of wood.
- Call for Assistance: Contact a qualified mechanic or towing service for immediate help.
Final Thoughts: A Safe and Secure Lift
Knowing how to jack up your Tesla Model S safely and confidently is a valuable skill for any owner. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure a smooth and secure lifting process, allowing you to perform necessary maintenance or repairs without compromising safety. Remember, always prioritize safety and use the correct tools for the job.
Frequently Discussed Topics
1. Can I use a regular car jack to lift my Tesla Model S?
No, it’s highly discouraged to use a regular car jack on your Tesla Model S. The weight distribution and undercarriage design of the Model S require a jack specifically designed for it.
2. How often should I check my jacking points for damage?
It’s a good practice to visually inspect your jacking points for any signs of damage or wear at least once a year, or more frequently if you regularly lift your car.
3. What should I do if I notice damage to my jacking points?
If you notice any damage to your jacking points, it’s crucial to have them repaired by a qualified mechanic immediately. Damaged jacking points can compromise the safety of lifting the vehicle.
4. What are some common mistakes people make when jacking up their cars?
Common mistakes include using the wrong type of jack, not using jack stands, not chocking the wheels, and not properly securing the jack.
5. Can I jack up my Tesla Model S to change a tire?
Yes, you can jack up your Tesla Model S to change a tire. However, it’s essential to follow the proper safety procedures outlined in this guide and use the correct jack.