Where not to put jack stand?
Jack stands are essential for safely supporting a vehicle after it’s lifted, but placement matters as much as the lift itself. The direct guidance is simple: avoid soft, sloped, or unsupported locations and always use solid, level surfaces with the vehicle’s designated lift points. Improper placement can lead to collapse, injuries, or damage to the car.
Raising a car to work underneath is delicate work that demands careful attention to stability and load-bearing points. This article explains where jack stands should not be placed and outlines safer alternatives and best practices to minimize risk on the shop floor or driveway.
Where not to place jack stands
To prevent accidents, keep these common trouble spots in mind—each can compromise stability if you ignore it.
- Soft or uneven ground: dirt, grass, gravel, mud, snow, or other materials that can compact or shift under load.
- Sloped or unstable surfaces: driveways or pavement that incline, crack, or settle, creating a risk of rolling or slipping.
- Points not designed for lifting: thin sheet metal, non-reinforced floor panels, decorative or trim areas, or any surface not specified by the manufacturer as a jack point.
- Proximity to heat or flammable components: near the fuel system, exhaust, battery, or other heat-sensitive or flammable parts that could be damaged or pose a fire hazard.
- Wet, icy, or slippery surfaces: moisture or ice reduces traction and increases the chance of a stand sliding.
- Inadequate or unstable base supports: improvised bases such as wood blocks, bricks, loose paving stones, or other materials that can crack or settle.
- Under non-load-bearing or weak areas: engine/transmission mounts or parts not intended to bear weight, which can crush or shift unexpectedly.
When any of these conditions are present, do not rely on jack stands alone. Always reassess the surface and use proper lifting points and stable supports before proceeding.
Safe practices and alternatives
If you’re not certain where to place stands or you’re working in less-than-ideal conditions, follow these safer practices and use the right equipment to maximize stability.
- Use a solid, level surface: concrete or a well-prepared, flat, hard surface is preferred over dirt or uneven pavement.
- Block wheels on both sides of the vehicle: set wheel chocks on the opposite end to prevent any movement.
- Place stands only at manufacturer-recommended lifting points: refer to the owner’s manual or the vehicle’s jacking points for reinforced areas like pinch welds or subframe members.
- Choose stands with appropriate weight ratings and a wide base: ensure the stands are rated for the vehicle’s total weight and have a stable footprint.
- Use at least two stands to distribute load: position them at the front and rear (or at multiple points) to hold the vehicle evenly, never rely on a single stand.
- Remove the floor jack only after stands are in place and locked: never work under a car supported by a floor jack alone.
- Avoid improvised bases: do not use wood blocks, cinder blocks, bricks, or loose stones to support or distribute load; if additional distribution is needed, use a purpose-built base plate or a steel stability plate designed for jacking operations.
- Stay aware of the work environment: clear the area of bystanders and keep hands, clothes, and tools away from pinch points when repositioning stands.
By following these practices, you reduce the risk of tipping, sinking, or shifting and create a safer space to perform maintenance or repairs.
Summary
Key takeaway: jack stands must be placed on solid, level surfaces at the vehicle’s designated lifting points and never on soft ground, slopes, or non-load-bearing areas. Use proper wheel chocks, two stands at appropriate points, and never rely on a floor jack alone. When in doubt, consult the vehicle’s manual and opt for safer, engineered support solutions.
