Using a car jack incorrectly is one of the most common causes of workshop and roadside injuries. Learn the critical safety rules for jacking up your vehicle.
The Golden Rule of Jacking
NEVER put any part of your body under a vehicle that is supported only by a jack. Jacks are lifting devices, not support devices. If you must go under the car, you must use jack stands.
Safe Jacking Procedure
- Surface: Only jack a car on hard, level ground (concrete or asphalt). Never jack on grass, dirt, or a slope.
- Chock the Wheels: If you are lifting the front, place bricks or chocks behind the rear wheels. If lifting the rear, chock the front.
- Jacking Points: Consult your manual to find the specific reinforced points on the chassis. Jacking on the floor pan or a plastic side skirt will cause structural damage.
Types of Jacks
The "Scissor Jack" found in most trunks is for emergency use only. They are inherently unstable. For home maintenance, always invest in a high-quality "Hydraulic Floor Jack" and a pair of sturdy jack stands.
