Where can I find jacking points?
Jacking points are specific locations on a vehicle where you can safely place a jack to lift the car. Knowing where these jacking points are located is crucial for performing maintenance tasks like changing a tire or accessing the underside of the vehicle. In this article, we'll provide a detailed guide on finding the jacking points on your car.
Identifying Jacking Points
Jacking points are typically marked on the vehicle's body or frame, often with a small symbol or label. These points are designed to distribute the weight of the car evenly and prevent damage to the vehicle's structure when lifted. The most common jacking point locations include:
- Under the driver and passenger doors, near the rocker panels
- On the frame rails, usually near the front and rear wheels
- On the vehicle's unibody, often near the jack storage compartment
- On the rear suspension components, such as the differential or trailing arms
It's important to consult your vehicle's owner's manual or service information to identify the specific jacking point locations for your make and model. This will ensure you lift the car safely and avoid any potential damage.
Using Jacking Points Properly
Once you've located the jacking points, follow these steps to safely lift your vehicle:
- Park the car on a level, stable surface and engage the parking brake.
- Position the jack under the designated jacking point, making sure it is centered and secure.
- Slowly and steadily raise the jack until the wheel you're working on is just off the ground.
- Always use jack stands or other suitable supports to keep the vehicle elevated and stable.
- Never work under a vehicle that is supported only by a jack, as it can be unstable and dangerous.
By following these guidelines and using the proper jacking points, you can safely lift your vehicle and perform maintenance tasks with confidence.
Will Autozone jack up your car?
Most cities have ordinances against doing anything more than changing batteries, wiper blades, or headlights, or topping off fluids, in the parking lot of any store. Basically, anything that requires lifting the vehicle or draining any fluids is against those ordinances.
How to find the jacking point on a car?
Usually there's one on each side behind the front wheels and in front of the back wheels, close to the rocker panels. There may be central jack points located behind the bumpers (front and rear). Jack points will be flat metal areas, often with notches that are in the shape of the top of the jack.
Does every car have a jacking point?
With the sheer variety of cars on the road these days, there isn't a universally-built jack point, but there certainly are clues you can use to help you on the way. The best place to start is by looking in your vehicle's user manual or maintenance guide.
Where are jacks located in cars?
Typically, the floor of the trunk functions as a cover flap that can be lifted to expose an extra storage area; this is also a common storage location for spare tires. Sometimes the jack is held down by a screw mechanism or rubber band so it stays secure in its compartment.
