Where can I find a jacking point?
Jacking points are essential for safely lifting a car for a tire change or inspection. In most passenger vehicles, these points are located at reinforced areas along the rocker panels, front and rear crossmembers, or frame rails, and they’re usually marked in the owner’s manual or on the underbody. Use official sources to identify the exact spots for your model.
Where to Look for Jacking Points
To verify and locate jacking points, check official sources and markings. The following places commonly indicate safe lifting points:
- Owner's manual diagrams and instructions for your exact model.
- Underside markings and stamped indicators such as triangles, arrows, or reinforced pads near pinch welds and crossmembers.
- Service or repair manuals that specify chassis-specific lift points.
- Manufacturer websites or dealer portals that publish jacking point diagrams and tips.
- Door jamb or under-hood labels that may illustrate or reference lifting locations.
Using these sources helps you identify safe spots and avoids damage to the frame or suspension while lifting.
Typical Locations by Vehicle Type
While there are general rules, locations can vary by model. Here are common patterns by vehicle type:
- Sedans and coupes: reinforced pinch welds along the rocker panels near the doors; sometimes front and rear crossmembers under the bumper are used if the rocker area isn’t reinforced.
- SUVs and crossovers: points on side frame rails or reinforced crossmembers under the doors; often there are two front and two rear points.
- Pickup trucks: stronger frame rails with designated front and rear lift points; avoid lifting from fuel lines or exhaust components.
- Minivans and certain hatchbacks: pinch welds near the doors and reinforced underbody brackets; check for two front and two rear points depending on model.
- Electric and hybrid vehicles: may use reinforced floor panels or a dedicated center lift pad; avoid battery housings and non-reinforced areas.
Always verify with the manual for your exact model, as misidentifying a point can cause chassis damage or injury.
Safe Lifting: How to Use Jacking Points Properly
Once you know where to lift, follow these safety steps to complete a tire change or inspection without incident.
- Park on a flat, level surface, engage the parking brake, and place wheel chocks on the opposite wheels.
- Identify the correct jacking point and align the jack pad or arm with it. Ensure the jack is on a solid, level surface and that the pad sits squarely on the point.
- Slowly lift the vehicle until the wheel clears the ground. Do not place any part of your body under the vehicle while it is supported only by a jack.
- Place sturdy jack stands under appropriate support points as specified by the manufacturer; never rely on the jack alone. \n
Lower the vehicle slowly and remove the jack and stands once you are finished, ensuring the ground is clear and your tools are stored away.
Summary
Jacking points are model-specific but are typically found along reinforced pinch welds near the doors and at front/rear crossmembers. Always consult the owner’s manual or manufacturer resources for your exact model, look for visual markings on the underbody, and use a jack stand for any lift. Prioritize a flat surface, wheel chocks, and a careful, step-by-step lifting process to protect both you and your vehicle.
