How to Jack Your Vehicle Safely
How to Jack Your Vehicle Safely
There are many reasons for why you may need to jack up your car yourself; whether it be to change a flat tire, inspect the underside of your car, or even to inspect your brakes. It is important to know the proper way to jack up your car so that you can do it safely and efficiently without injury to you or your car. Unless it is an emergency, such as a flat tire, you should leave the inspections to the professionals to ensure complete safety precautions are being taken. Visit our service centre for assistance.
Safety Precautions
Before jacking up your car, there are some safety precautions that you need to take.
Once you are in a secure environment with a level ground, you can begin the steps towards jacking up your car. First, make sure that your vehicle is in park, turn the engine off and engage the parking brake. Try to get something, such as bricks, to keep your wheels from rolling on the oppostite end of the car before you place the jack. If you are working under your vehicle, you need to use a jack and jack stands. Without jack stands, there is a big risk of injury or even death.
How to Jack Up Your Vehicle
Now that you are familiar with all the safety precautions, you can get started. First, locate the jacking points on your vehicle. Usually, they are just behind the front wheels and just ahead of the rear wheels. If you are still unsure, refer to your vehicle's owner manual for proper placement.
Next, place the jack under the jacking points and turn the jack handle clockwise slowly, ensuring that the jack is stable, secure, and not leaning or tilting. Do this until the tire is off the ground and able to be removed. Remember, do not go underneath the car without jack stands.
Once complete, slowly unwind the jack by turning the handle counterclockwise until the tire is firmly back on the ground, then remove the jack. Replace the jack and jack stands to their storage location and remove the wheel blockers. Then you are good to go.
Contact Us
Looking for more information about jacking up your car safely? Contact us today and our knowledgeable staff will be happy to help.