How do I find the jack points on my car?
Jack points are reinforced spots on your car’s undercarriage where a jack can safely lift the vehicle. Most cars use reinforced pinch welds along the rocker panels near each wheel or a designated crossmember; always check the owner's manual for the exact locations.
In this guide, we explain how to locate these points on most models, what markings to look for, and best practices for lifting and supporting the car safely.
Understanding the concept of jack points
Jack points are deliberately reinforced areas designed to bear the pressure of a lifting tool without damaging the frame, suspension, or underbody components. Using the correct points helps prevent accidents and structural damage while you change a tire or perform maintenance.
Where to look on most cars
Common locations and indicators are usually found near each wheel on the vehicle’s frame or rocker panels. Start with these typical areas when you don’t have immediate access to the manual.
- Reinforced pinch welds along the rocker panels directly under the doors
- A designated crossmember or frame rail near the front and rear axles
- Small marks, arrows, or raised bosses on the undercarriage near each wheel
- Factory-installed jacking point indicators, sometimes shown as a triangle or plastic cover label
- The owner’s manual or the vehicle’s jacking point diagram for model-specific locations
If your car lacks obvious marks or you’re unsure, do not improvise. Refer to the manual or contact the manufacturer or a qualified technician for guidance.
Step-by-step: How to verify and lift safely
These steps outline safe lifting practices and how to confirm you’re using the correct points.
- Park on level ground, engage the parking brake, and turn off the engine. Place wheel chocks on the wheels that remain on the ground.
- Position the jack under the identified jack point and ensure the contact area is clean and stable. Do not lift from suspension arms, control arms, or rear axles not designated as jacking points.
- Slowly lift until the tire just loses contact with the ground, then verify that the jack is contacting the correct reinforced area.
- Slide a jack stand under a corresponding support point or crossmember and slowly lower the car onto the stands. Never rely on the jack alone to hold the vehicle up.
- Lower the car gently when you’re finished and remove the stands and the jack.
Always double-check that the stands are stable and that the vehicle is secure before you begin any work underneath. If in doubt, seek professional assistance.
Vehicle-specific variations
Different makes and models may place jack points in slightly different locations. Always consult your owner's manual for model-specific diagrams and instructions. Some trucks and SUVs use frame rails or dedicated lumber-style points, while certain sedans rely predominantly on pinch welds. If your vehicle has a unique carrying capacity or design, follow the manufacturer’s guidance to avoid damage.
Examples by vehicle type
As a rule of thumb, sedans and hatchbacks typically use pinch welds along the rocker panels, while larger SUVs and trucks may rely on frame rails or crossmembers near the wheels. Performance cars sometimes feature low-profile jack points integrated into the chassis. When in doubt, reference the official manual or contact a dealer for precise locations.
Safety reminders
Safety is paramount when lifting a vehicle. Use wheel chocks on the opposite wheels, engage the parking brake, work on level ground, and always use jack stands in addition to the jack. Never place any part of your body under a car that is supported only by a jack, and avoid spots that could bend or gouge the underbody.
Summary
Locating the right jack points starts with the owner’s manual and a careful look for reinforced areas near each wheel—usually the pinch welds or a dedicated crossmember. Use clean, stable surfaces, verify markings or diagrams, and always follow safe lifting procedures with wheel chocks and jack stands. By identifying and using the correct points, you protect yourself and your vehicle while performing tire changes or maintenance.
Do all vehicles have lift points on the frame?
Vehicle lifting points vary depending on the make and model of the vehicle. Not all vehicles have lift points on the pinch welds or the frame. Additionally, not all lifting points are identified by triangles on the lower rocker panels.
How do I find jack points on my car?
Jack Points on a Car (Quick Answer)
Most cars have four main spots. Look just behind the front wheels and just in front of the rear wheels along the pinch weld seam. Those areas are beefed up from the factory to take the load. A lot of times you'll see a notch or thicker seam there—that's your signal.
Where can you find the correct jacking point information?
Your vehicle owner's manual should have information on the jacking points and their locations. If you can't locate information about jack point locations in your vehicle owner's manual, the lift points are typically marked under the vehicle's side rails, just behind the front wheel or in front of the rear wheel.
How do you know where to jack up a vehicle at the proper points without damaging the vehicle?
Points you can find your car's specific jacking points in your owner's. Manual. These points are strong enough to lift your car up on so you'll have no problem putting your jack stands. There.
