Mastering the Art of Jacking Up a Car: How to Safely Lift the Rear

Whether you’re a seasoned mechanic or a newbie to car maintenance, knowing how to jack up the rear of a car is an essential skill. It opens the door to a world of DIY repairs, tire changes, and even just a closer look at your vehicle’s undercarriage. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process, equipping you with the knowledge and confidence to tackle this task safely and efficiently.

Gather Your Tools and Gear

Before you even think about lifting your car, make sure you have the right tools and equipment at your disposal. This includes:

• A hydraulic floor jack: This is the workhorse of car lifting. Choose one with a capacity that exceeds your car’s weight.
• Jack stands: These are crucial for safety. They provide a stable platform to support your car once it’s lifted. Get a set that can handle the weight of your vehicle.
• Lug wrench: This is used to loosen and tighten lug nuts. Ensure it’s compatible with your car’s lug nut size.
• Chocks: These are essential for preventing your car from rolling while you work. Place them in front of the front tires.
• Gloves: Protect your hands from dirt, grime, and potential injuries.
• Work light: This will provide adequate illumination for working under the car.
• Flat, level surface: This is crucial for stability and safety. Avoid lifting your car on inclines or uneven ground.

Locate the Jacking Points

The first step is to identify the designated jacking points on your car. These are reinforced areas designed to support the weight of the vehicle. Consult your car’s owner’s manual for the precise location of these points. They are typically found near the rear wheel wells, often marked with a small triangle or a raised bump.

Prepare Your Car for Lifting

Now that you’ve gathered your tools and identified the jacking points, it’s time to prepare your car for lifting:

1. Park on a flat, level surface: This is crucial for stability and safety. Avoid lifting your car on inclines or uneven ground.
2. Engage the parking brake: This will prevent your car from rolling while you work.
3. Place chocks in front of the front tires: This will prevent the car from rolling forward.
4. Shift the transmission into “Park” (automatic) or “First gear” (manual): This will further secure your car.

Positioning the Jack

With your car safely prepared, you can now position the jack:

1. Locate the jacking point: As mentioned earlier, consult your owner’s manual for the precise location.
2. Position the jack directly under the jacking point: Ensure the jack is centered and stable.
3. Make sure the jack is in contact with the jacking point: This ensures a secure lift.

Lifting the Rear of the Car

Now comes the crucial part:

1. Slowly crank the jack handle: Lift the car gradually, avoiding sudden movements.
2. Check the height of the car: Raise the car until the rear wheels are just off the ground.
3. Place the jack stands under the car: Place the jack stands securely under the designated jacking points. The stands should be positioned close to the jacking points for maximum stability.
4. Lower the car onto the jack stands: Slowly lower the car onto the jack stands, ensuring they are firmly in place.
5. Remove the jack: Once the car is securely resting on the jack stands, you can remove the jack.

Working Under the Car

With the rear of your car safely lifted, you can now perform your desired task. Remember to always be mindful of safety:

• Avoid working under the car without the jack stands in place: This is extremely dangerous and could result in serious injury.
• Be aware of your surroundings: Pay attention to potential hazards like loose parts or sharp edges.
• Use proper tools and equipment: Choose the right tools for the job and handle them with care.
• Take breaks if needed: Working under a car can be physically demanding. Take breaks to avoid fatigue.

Lowering the Car

Once you’ve finished your work, it’s time to lower the car:

1. Remove the jack stands: Carefully remove the jack stands, ensuring the car remains stable.
2. Lower the car using the jack: Slowly lower the car until the rear wheels are back on the ground.
3. Remove the jack: Once the car is firmly back on the ground, remove the jack.
4. Remove the chocks: Now that the car is stable, you can remove the chocks from the front tires.

Wrapping Up: A Safe and Successful Lift

Congratulations! You’ve successfully jacked up the rear of your car. Remember to always prioritize safety and follow the steps outlined in this guide. With practice and a little patience, you’ll become a pro at this essential car maintenance skill.

Common Questions and Answers

Q: What if I don’t have a jack stand?

A: It’s highly discouraged to work under a car without jack stands. They provide a safe and stable platform, preventing the car from unexpectedly falling. If you don’t have jack stands, it’s best to find a mechanic or a friend who can help you.

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

A: It’s crucial to regularly inspect your jack and jack stands for any signs of damage or wear. Check for cracks, dents, or loose parts. If you notice any issues, replace them immediately.

Q: What should I do if my jack slips?

A: If your jack slips, immediately stop lifting and lower the car slowly. Assess the situation and identify the cause of the slippage. If you’re unsure, seek professional assistance.

Q: Can I use a jack to lift my car for a long period?

A: No, never use a jack to support your car for extended periods. Jacks are designed for lifting, not supporting. Always use jack stands for prolonged work under the car.

Q: What are some common mistakes people make when jacking up a car?

A: Some common mistakes include:

• Not using jack stands: This is the most dangerous mistake, as it can lead to the car falling and causing serious injury.
• Not using chocks: This can cause the car to roll while you’re working.
• Not using the proper jacking points: Lifting the car from incorrect points can damage your vehicle.
• Overloading the jack: Using a jack that’s not rated for the weight of your car can lead to failure.

By understanding the proper techniques and safety precautions, you can confidently jack up the rear of your car for any necessary maintenance or repairs. Remember, safety should always be your top priority.