how to use the car jack

There you are, on the side of the road with a flat tire. It’s a situation every driver hopes to avoid, but being prepared can turn a moment of panic into a manageable task. Your car jack is the key piece of equipment that will get you safely back on your way. Knowing the basics of how to use the car jack is an essential skill that provides peace of mind and ensures your safety during the process.

Getting Prepared Before You Jack

Before you even think about lifting the car, preparation is everything. Find a flat, stable surface away from traffic. Engage your parking brake firmly and place wheel chocks (or a sturdy rock) against the tire diagonally opposite the one you’re changing. Locate your car’s owner’s manual to find the specific jacking points on your vehicle’s frame. These are reinforced metal lips or notches designed to handle the weight; placing the jack anywhere else can cause serious damage.

The Step-by-Step Guide on How to Use the Car Jack

With the car prepared, it’s time to get to work. First, use your lug wrench to slightly loosen the lug nuts on the flat tire—just break their resistance, don’t remove them completely. Next, carefully position the jack under the correct jacking point. Begin pumping the jack handle slowly and steadily. As the car lifts, double-check that the jack is stable and not leaning. Lift the car just high enough for the flat tire to clear the ground by about an inch or two. You never want to lift the vehicle higher than necessary.

Staying Safe While Your Car is Lifted

Safety is the number one priority. Never place any part of your body under a vehicle that is supported only by a jack. The jack is for lifting, not for holding. Once the car is raised, slide the spare tire under the car’s frame near the jack. This acts as a safety net; if the jack fails, the car will fall onto the tire. It’s a simple step that can prevent a catastrophe. Now you can fully remove the loosened lug nuts and the flat tire.

Wrapping Up and Stowing Your Gear

Mount the spare tire onto the wheel studs, hand-tighten the lug nuts, and then carefully lower the car using the jack. Once the car is fully on the ground, use the wrench to tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern to ensure the tire is seated evenly. Do a final check to make sure everything is secure before stowing your flat tire, jack, and tools back in your trunk.

With these steps, you’ve not only changed a tire but also gained the confidence to handle a common roadside emergency safely and efficiently.