where do you put a jack on a car

That dreaded thumping sound from a tire is a moment every driver hopes to avoid. But when it happens, knowing how to safely lift your car is the most critical first step. It’s a task that seems simple, but getting it wrong can cause serious damage to your vehicle or, worse, lead to a dangerous accident. The key to safety and success lies entirely in one simple piece of knowledge: where do you put a jack on a car.

Lifting a car isn’t about finding any sturdy-looking piece of metal. Modern vehicles have specific points designed to handle the immense pressure of a jack, and using the wrong spot can bend frame rails, puncture the floor, or destabilize the entire vehicle.

The Critical First Step: Finding Your Owner’s Manual

Before you even touch the jack, your very best resource is your car’s owner’s manual. Manufacturers provide detailed diagrams showing the exact, approved jacking points for your specific model. These locations are engineered to support the car’s weight safely. If you don’t have a physical copy, a quick online search for your car’s make, model, and year along with “jacking points” will usually bring up the information you need.

Where Do You Put a Jack on a Car: The Safe Zones

Generally, there are two main types of safe jack placement. For a roadside tire change using the scissor jack that came with your car, you will be lifting from the vehicle’s designated jack points. These are typically reinforced metal tabs or notches located a few inches behind the front wheels or ahead of the rear wheels along the car’s side sill. You’ll see a clear area meant for the jack to fit. It’s essential to line up the jack’s groove or head with this point precisely.

If you’re using a garage floor jack for maintenance, the central jacking points are your target. These are more substantial parts of the vehicle’s frame, like the front crossmember or the central rear differential. Never place a floor jack under the oil pan, exhaust pipes, or any plastic bodywork, as they cannot handle the weight.

Essential Safety Tips Before You Lift

Once you’ve identified the correct spot, a few simple steps will ensure your safety. Always park on a firm, level surface and engage the parking brake. If you’re changing a tire, place a wheel chock or a large rock against the tire diagonally opposite from the one you’re lifting. As you begin to raise the car, do so slowly and stop immediately if you hear any concerning noises or see the car shifting. Finally, never get under a vehicle supported only by a jack. Always use jack stands to securely hold the car before performing any work.

Taking that extra minute to find the right jacking point makes all the difference. It protects your car from costly damage and, most importantly, keeps you safe while you handle the situation. With this knowledge, you can face a flat tire with confidence.