When it comes to working on a vehicle, safely lifting it off the ground is a crucial step. Whether you’re changing a flat tire, performing maintenance, or inspecting the undercarriage, knowing where to place a jack on a car ensures both safety and effectiveness. Many drivers are unfamiliar with the correct jacking points, which can lead to serious risks if the wrong areas are used. This article dives deep into where to position a car jack, why it matters, and the best practices to keep in mind for various types of vehicles and jacks.
Understanding Car Jacking Basics
Before delving into specific jacking points, it’s important to understand the foundational principles behind jacking a car safely. A jack is a mechanical device used to raise vehicles off the ground. However, not all areas of a car are designed to support this upward force. Using the wrong spot can damage the vehicle’s body, compromise structural integrity, or even lead to accidents.
Types of Car Jacks
There are several types of jacks commonly used for automotive work, and each is suited to different situations:
- Floor Jack – Ideal for use in garages or professional settings, floor jacks offer smoother, quicker lifting and are typically more stable.
- Scissor Jack – Often included with vehicles, these manual jacks are suitable for roadside emergencies like changing a tire.
- Bottle Jack – A type of hydraulic jack commonly used for heavier vehicles and workshops.
- Jack Stands – These are not jacks themselves but are essential for safety, used to support the vehicle once it is lifted.
Each type has specific placement and usage guidelines, but the principles for correct positioning under the car remain consistent.
Key Safety Considerations
Before ever placing a jack under a car, ensure the following:
- The car is parked on a level, stable surface.
- Apply the parking brake to prevent accidental movement.
- Use wheel chocks on the wheels that will remain on the ground.
- Avoid placing any body parts under the vehicle when it is supported only by a jack.
Always prioritize safety by using reliable equipment, including jack stands when working beneath a lifted car.
Locating Jacking Points on Your Car
Determining where to place the jack can vary depending on the vehicle’s make, model, and construction. However, all modern cars are designed with designated jacking points for safe lifting. These are reinforced areas specifically intended to bear the weight of the vehicle during lifting.
Manufacturer’s Recommendations
The first and most reliable source for identifying jacking points is your car’s owner’s manual. Manufacturers provide detailed diagrams and instructions for where to position a jack safely. Ignoring the manual might lead you to use areas not meant to support the vehicle’s weight, such as plastic bumper covers or fragile underbody panels.
For example:
| Vehicle Type | Recommended Jacking Points |
|---|---|
| Sedan with unibody frame | Reinforced pinch welds near the front and rear wheels |
| Truck with frame rails | Strongest structural frame points beneath the axles |
| Sports car with low ground clearance | Central lifting point in the front and reinforced areas near wheels |
Visible Jacking Points on Different Types of Vehicles
While manuals are the gold standard, most vehicles also have visual indicators that help drivers locate safe jacking spots.
Sedans and SUVs with Unibody Frames
Unibody vehicles (most modern passenger cars and SUVs) have reinforced pinch welds — thin gaps along the car’s sides, usually near each wheel. These are clearly indicated and designed to accept the jack platform without damaging the underbody.
To identify:
- Locate the flat side sill or pinch weld cover (these are often plastic panels that can be removed).
- Look for a cutout or triangle symbol near the wheel well.
Trucks and SUVs with Frame Rails
Older vehicles and heavy-duty trucks usually have separate frames — this means the safest jacking points are along the frame rails. These steel beams run the length of the vehicle and have stamped symbols or holes designated for jacking and towing.
When jacking trucks or frame-based vehicles:
- Position the jack directly under the front or rear axle mounting points.
- Use the frame rails symmetrically to avoid tipping the vehicle.
Low-profile Sports Cars and Electric Vehicles
Sports cars, convertibles, and electric vehicles like Teslas often have unique undercarriage designs, making traditional jack placement difficult. Some feature central front jack points, while others require the use of a special adapter or raised platform.
For these vehicles:
- Look for a reinforced lifting point under the front bumper area.
- Use foam jack pads or a lifting plate if equipped by the manufacturer to protect aerodynamic panels.
Step-by-Step Guide to Safely Jacking Up a Car
Now that you have identified the correct jacking points, follow these sequential steps to lift your vehicle confidently and safely.
Pre-Lifting Preparation
- Choose a Level Surface: Park on flat, solid ground — avoid slopes, gravel, or soft terrain.
- Turn on Hazard Lights: For visibility if working roadside.
- Gather Equipment: Floor jack, jack stands (for extended jobs), wheel chocks, safety glasses, gloves.
- Loosen Lug Nuts: Before lifting, slightly loosen the wheel nuts with a wrench or tire iron for smooth tire removal.
Proper Jack Placement
- Locate the Designated Jack Point: Refer to the owner’s manual or visual markers.
- Position the Jack: Center it under the jacking point, ensuring full contact with the vehicle and the ground.
- Begin Lifting: Use steady, even pressure on the jack handle. Lift until the tire just leaves the ground.
Stabilizing the Vehicle
- Use Jack Stands: Once raised, place jack stands under sturdy support points and slowly lower the vehicle onto them.
- Double-check Stability: Rock the car gently to ensure there’s no movement before working under it.
- Avoid Working Without Support: Never rely solely on a jack. It is not designed for long-term support and failure can be fatal.
- Plastic or rubber bumpers
- Engine oil pans or transmission cases
- Exhaust systems
- Fuel lines or delicate suspension components
- Reduce lifting efficiency
- Damage the jack and the vehicle
- Create instability and a tipping hazard
- Locate the jacking point nearest to the flat tire (refer to owner’s manual or symbols).
- Lift the car until the tire clears the ground (a few inches is enough).
- Remove the lug nuts and tire, replace with spare, and lower the vehicle gradually.
- Jack both sides at the designated front jacking points one at a time.
- Place jack stands beneath the appropriate frame or support point after lifting.
- Lower the car completely onto the stands before proceeding.
- Begin with front jacking points and raise a few inches.
- Jack up the rear using designated points.
- Use jack stands at appropriate support points on both front and rear.
- Double-check the stability before crawling underneath.
- Central front jacking points
- Reinforced plastic jack pad areas
- Frameless subframe reinforcements
- Using a foam adapter between metal jack pads and the vehicle to prevent cracking.
- Avoiding direct pressure on low-hanging underbody covers.
- Floor jacks — ensure they are centered to avoid scraping the underbody.
- Portable jacks — verify the lift height and wheelbase clearance.
- Vehicle-specific support tools — if available, use OE-approved tools for service.
Jacking Mistakes to Avoid
Knowing where to place the jack is just one part of the process; understanding what not to do is equally important.
Using Incorrect Jack Points
Avoid placing the jack under:
These areas are not reinforced and cannot support the weight of the vehicle. Using them can cause serious damage and is extremely dangerous.
Ignoring Jack and Vehicle Weight Limits
Each jack is rated by weight capacity — ensure that your jack can support the vehicle’s curb weight. For example:
| Vehicle Class | Weight (approx.) | Recommended Jack Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| Compact Sedan | 2,600–3,000 lbs | 2-ton jack |
| SUV or Crossover | 3,500–4,500 lbs | 3-ton jack |
| Full-size Pickup Truck | 5,000–6,500 lbs | 4.5–5-ton jack |
Using a jack with a lower weight rating than required can result in failure during lifting.
Incorrect Jack Angle
Always position the jack perpendicular to the ground and aligned with the jacking point. Tilting or uneven positioning can:
Jacking for Specific Tasks
Depending on what you’re doing, the placement of the jack may shift slightly while still adhering to safety rules.
Changing a Tire
Changing a tire is one of the most common reasons to jack a vehicle. The proper procedure is:
Never leave the vehicle fully suspended while working on it for an extended period without jack stands.
Oil Changes and Under-vehicle Maintenance
For under-car work like oil changes, exhaust inspections, or suspension checks, it’s best to lift the entire front or rear of the vehicle. Here’s how:
Some vehicles are equipped with built-in lift supports. If not, use heavy-duty jack stands rated for the vehicle’s weight.
Safely Raising the Entire Vehicle
For full-vehicle lifting:
Working with a professional mechanic lift is recommended for full-access vehicle maintenance.
Special Considerations for Lift Points on Modern Electric Vehicles
Electric vehicles (EVs) often come with unique undercarriage components like battery packs and aerodynamic covers, making traditional jacking points insufficient or risky.
EV-Specific Jacking Features
Many EVs from brands like Tesla, BMW, and Nissan have:
For these vehicles, manufacturers often recommend:
Battery Pack Protection
EVs house large lithium-ion battery packs beneath the vehicle. Hitting or exerting pressure on the battery enclosure using a car jack is dangerous and can cause permanent damage or fire hazards. Be especially cautious with:
Conclusion – Safety First When Jacking Your Car
Knowing where to place a jack on a car is essential for the safety of both the vehicle and the person performing the work. Whether you’re changing a tire, performing maintenance, or inspecting the underside of your vehicle, using the correct jacking points ensures stability, prevents damage, and offers peace of mind.
Ultimately, following manufacturer guidelines is the best and safest approach. Invest time in learning the designated lifting points for your vehicle, and always use jack stands when working beneath a car. By adopting safe jacking practices, you become a more informed and confident driver capable of handling roadside emergencies and maintenance tasks with ease.
Remember — the right jack in the right place can make all the difference in vehicle maintenance. Stay safe, stay informed, and ensure every lift you perform is both efficient and secure.
Why is it important to place the jack correctly under a car?
Proper jack placement is crucial for both vehicle integrity and personal safety. When lifting a car, the weight distribution shifts dramatically, and improper support can lead to the vehicle slipping or collapsing suddenly. This can result in serious injury or significant damage to the undercarriage components. Using the correct jack points ensures that the vehicle is stable and that the force from the jack is evenly distributed across the strongest parts of the chassis.
Most modern vehicles are designed with specific reinforced areas called jack points, which are meant to bear the stress of lifting. These locations are typically indicated in the vehicle’s owner’s manual and are often marked on the car’s body itself. Avoiding incorrect areas—such as plastic components, fuel tanks, or exhaust systems—prevents costly or dangerous mishaps. Always double-check the recommended spots before lifting the vehicle, regardless of how familiar you are with the model.
What are the recommended jack points on a typical passenger vehicle?
The recommended jack points on a passenger vehicle usually include reinforced sections of the frame rails, pinch welds, and designated lifting areas near the front and rear wheels. These spots are designed to handle the pressure of a jack without damaging the vehicle. In many cars, especially unibody models, manufacturers designate specific zones along the rocker panels or subframes that should be used for lifting. These points are often labeled in the owner’s manual or shown in maintenance guides.
Some vehicles feature underbody skid plates or crossmembers that can also serve as safe lifting points. It’s important to identify these prior to jacking up the car. For example, near the front wheels, the suspension crossmember is often a suitable spot, while near the rear, the rear axle or a designated subframe may be recommended. When in doubt, look for areas that are solid and robust rather than hollow or composed of plastic or soft materials.
Can I use a jack on uneven ground, and how does it affect placement?
It is unsafe to use a jack on uneven or soft ground, as this increases the risk of the vehicle shifting or the jack tipping over. Unstable surfaces like gravel, sand, or dirt may cause the jack to sink or wobble, compromising the lifting process. If you must work on a surface that isn’t level or firm, place a solid, flat board or steel plate under the jack to create a stable base and ensure even weight distribution.
Proper placement of the jack on uneven terrain also involves ensuring that the vehicle is on as level a surface as possible before lifting. Chock the wheels to prevent rolling and avoid jacking from an angle that might strain the undercarriage. If the ground slopes or is uneven, even if only slightly, it’s best to move the vehicle to a flatter, safer location before attempting any lifting or repairs.
How does jack placement differ for different vehicle types?
Jack placement varies significantly depending on the type of vehicle. For example, sedans and coupes typically have clearly defined jack points along the rocker panels, while SUVs and trucks may have additional sturdy areas under the axles or frame rails. Pickup trucks, especially those with solid frames, often allow for jacking directly under the front or rear axle, which is a safe and sturdy point.
Conversely, sports cars and low-profile vehicles often have limited ground clearance and delicate underbodies, so lift points may be confined to specific jacking pads or reinforced crossmembers. Electric vehicles also require special attention due to their heavy battery packs located underneath the chassis, which means you must adhere strictly to the manufacturer’s specifications to avoid damaging sensitive components or voiding warranties. Always consult the vehicle’s manual to identify correct lift points based on its specific design.
Can I place jack stands after lifting the car with a jack?
Yes, jack stands are essential to use once the car has been lifted to a safe working height. While the jack raises the vehicle, it is not meant to support it unattended. Jack stands provide a stable, secondary support system that allows you to work under the vehicle safely without the risk of hydraulic failure or sudden collapse. Before placing jack stands, ensure the car is raised evenly and securely.
Position the jack stands directly under the vehicle’s designated strong points—such as subframes or reinforced chassis rails—and lower the car slowly onto them. Always double-check that the stands are firmly in place and level before removing the jack. It’s also a good idea to test the setup by gently rocking the vehicle to make sure it’s stable. Never rely on the jack alone to support the car while performing repairs or working underneath it.
What tools do I need besides a jack for safe vehicle lifting?
Besides a floor jack or scissor jack, several other tools are essential for safe lifting. Jack stands are the most critical addition—they provide secure support once the vehicle is raised. Wheel chocks help immobilize the vehicle and prevent it from rolling during the lifting process. A lug wrench or breaker bar is also necessary for removing and tightening wheel nuts safely.
Additional tools like a torque wrench, axle stands, and a level work surface can further enhance safety and efficiency. Safety glasses and gloves are also recommended to protect against debris or unexpected slippage. If you’re lifting a modern vehicle with sensors or advanced undercarriage components, a lift pad adapter may be necessary to prevent damage to the underbody. Always ensure your tools are in good condition and appropriate for your vehicle’s weight and design before starting any lifting process.
Are there any visual cues to help locate proper jack points on a car?
Many vehicles include visual indicators to help locate proper jack points. These can include small notches, dimples, or rubber strips on the undercarriage or along the rocker panels where the jack should be placed. Some models have specifically marked areas with painted lines or cut-outs, especially near the wheels where the pinch welds are located.
If no visible markings are present, you can identify proper jack points by inspecting the underside of the vehicle for reinforced structures such as the main frame rails, suspension crossmembers, or robust steel components. Avoid plastic panels, exhaust pipes, or fuel lines when searching for a safe spot. If you’re unsure, inspect the vehicle from multiple angles or consult the owner’s manual for a diagram that shows recommended lift points for jacking and support.