where to place car jack

That dreaded moment when a tire goes flat can leave anyone feeling a little stressed. Your first instinct might be to grab the jack and get to work, but knowing exactly where to place it is the most critical step for your safety. Getting it wrong can damage your car’s undercarriage or, even worse, cause the vehicle to fall. It’s a task that requires a bit of knowledge before you even start turning the jack handle.

Every vehicle is different, but manufacturers provide specific, reinforced points designed to handle the immense pressure of lifting the car. Finding these spots is the key to a safe and successful tire change. Let’s clear up the confusion about where to place car jack so you can handle your next roadside emergency with confidence.

The Critical Spots for Your Car Jack

Your car’s owner’s manual is your best friend here, as it will have diagrams showing the precise jack points for your model. Generally, you’re looking for two types of points. For the factory scissor jack that comes with your spare tire, you will use the vehicle’s dedicated jack points. These are usually small, notched metal tabs or reinforced sections on the side of the frame, located just behind the front wheels or just ahead of the rear wheels. You’ll feel them as a sturdy, defined edge.

If you’re using a floor jack for maintenance, the safest points are the central front and rear jack points. These are often more substantial sections of the frame, sometimes called the front crossmember or the rear differential housing (for rear-wheel drive). These points allow you to lift one entire end of the car at once, but always double-check your manual for their exact location.

Places You Should Absolutely Avoid

It’s just as important to know where not to place the jack. Never jack up the car on body panels, side skirts, or any part of the floor pan. These areas are not structurally sound and will crumple under the weight. Avoid the exhaust pipes, suspension components, and the oil pan, as contact with the jack can cause serious and expensive damage. If the metal feels thin or gives way easily, you are in the wrong spot.

Your Safety Checklist Before You Lift

Before you begin, always park on a firm, level surface and engage the parking brake. If you’re changing a flat, place a wheel chock or a large rock against the tire diagonally opposite the one you’re lifting. This prevents the car from rolling. Once the car is lifted, never get underneath it without the support of jack stands. A jack is for lifting; jack stands are for holding. They are an essential, non-negotiable part of any repair that requires you to be under the vehicle.

Taking a few extra moments to locate the correct jack points makes all the difference. It protects your vehicle from harm and, most importantly, keeps you safe while you work. With this knowledge, you can turn a potentially hazardous situation into a simple, manageable task.