Yes. When lifting a Tesla with a floor jack, using jack pads (jack pucks) is recommended to protect the battery and undercarriage and to distribute the load more safely. Following the vehicle’s lift-point guidance and using pads reduces the risk of damage during maintenance.
Understanding jack pucks and lift points
Jack pucks, or jack pads, are purpose-built discs or inserts that fit into a vehicle’s designated lifting points. They distribute the jack’s load over a larger area and protect delicate components beneath the car, including the battery pack and protective shields. Teslas use reinforced lift points at the corners of the vehicle, and pads help ensure the jack engages securely and remains stable during a lift.
What are jack pucks?
Jack pucks are typically made from durable plastics (such as UHMW) or rubber composites. They sit in or under the jacking point recesses and provide a flat, load-bearing surface for a floor jack, reducing the chance of slippage or damage to the chassis and protective panels.
When to use jack pucks
Use jack pucks whenever you lift a Tesla with a floor jack for maintenance that requires the car to be off the ground. Even for minor wheel changes, pads help protect pinch-weld areas and the battery shielding from the jack’s pressure and contact.
The following lists help explain common options, features to look for, and the steps to use pads safely.
- Protects the battery and underside from direct contact with the jack head.
- Distributes lifting force to minimize dents or deformation of protective panels.
- Improves jack stability and reduces the risk of slipping on smooth surfaces.
- Works with the Tesla’s official or aftermarket lift points designed for jacks.
- Can be official Tesla accessories or third-party pads compatible with Tesla lift points.
In practice, jack pads are a simple way to add safety when lifting a Tesla and are commonly recommended by owners and service technicians for home maintenance.
Choosing and using jack pads
Before buying or using jack pads, consider these factors to ensure compatibility and safety.
- Model compatibility: confirm the pad kit is intended for your Tesla model and generation.
- Material: look for durable, load-bearing materials such as UHMW plastic or robust rubber compounds.
- Pad count and configuration: ensure you have a sufficient number of pads for the points you’ll lift and whether a compatible jack pad for the floor jack is included.
- Fit and stability: pads should sit securely in the lift point and not shift during lifting.
- Official vs. aftermarket: consider whether you want the official Tesla accessory or a third-party option with good reviews.
Choosing a pad kit that matches your Tesla’s lift-point design helps ensure proper seating and reduces the chance of slippage or damage.
How to use jack pads safely
- Park on a flat, level surface and engage the parking brake. Place wheel chocks on the wheels opposite the side you’ll lift.
- Consult the owner’s manual to identify the correct lift points for your model. Clean any dirt or debris from the jack point area.
- Place the jack pad in or under the lifting point as designed, ensuring it sits firmly and won’t shift.
- Position the floor jack so its saddle aligns with the pad and the lift point, then raise slowly and evenly.
- If you need to work beneath the car, place appropriate jack stands at solid support points and lower the jack onto the stands before removing the pads.
- Lower the car slowly when finished, remove the jack stands, and then remove the jack pad and the jack.
Safety note: always follow the manual for lift points, use pads to distribute load, and never rely on a floor jack alone to hold a raised vehicle. If you’re unsure about the process, seek professional assistance.
Model-specific considerations
All current Tesla models use designated lift points, but the exact locations and access can vary. In general, you’ll find reinforced lifting areas near the corners of the vehicle. Tesla owners should refer to the latest owner’s manual or official service guidance for precise lift-point locations and pad compatibility for Model S, Model 3, Model X, and Model Y. When in doubt, use pads and support equipment recommended by Tesla or a qualified technician.
Alternatives to floor jacking
Safer or more convenient options include using a mobile service lift, a professional service bay, or ramps designed for EVs. Ramps can provide gradual elevation without placing concentrated pressure on sensitive underbody areas, and a shop with a hydraulic lift can handle the process with appropriate pads and stands.
Safety and practical tips
- Always use wheel chocks on the opposite wheels.
- Never rely on a floor jack alone to support a raised vehicle; use jack stands for any work under the car.
- Inspect pads for cracks or deformation before use; replace damaged pads promptly.
- Keep the lifting area clean and free of dirt, oil, and debris that could affect pad seating.
- Consult the owner’s manual for model-specific lift-point guidance and weight limits.
Bottom line
Using jack pads is a prudent and widely recommended practice when lifting a Tesla with a floor jack. They help protect critical components, improve stability, and reduce the risk of damage during maintenance. Always follow Tesla’s lift-point guidance and, when in doubt, opt for professional assistance.
Summary
Jack pucks (jack pads) are useful accessories for safer lifting of Tesla vehicles. They distribute load, protect the battery and underbody, and align with designated lift points. Choose pads that fit your model, follow the owner’s manual, and use proper safety practices or seek professional service if you’re uncertain about the process.
Does Tesla come with tire pucks?
The Modern Spare Jack for your Tesla Models will include a puck-style adaptor. No additional pucks are needed. Typically, the lifting pucks sold as jack adaptors for the unique lift points of your Tesla are designed to work with floor jacks or hoists found in an auto shop.
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Does Tesla need lifting pucks?
And I think they're worth buying. Also if your car goes to a garage which aren't experienced with electric vehicles. It might ensure that they jack the car up correctly.
What can you use instead of a Tesla puck?
Plywood is known for having substantial strength when compressed, which is why it is commonly used for subfloors. This wooden puck easily withstood the pressure of lifting my car, despite how heavy Tesla's are due to their battery.
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Why use jack pads on a Tesla?
Using jack pads is especially important for Tesla vehicles because they have a low ground clearance. Lifting your Tesla without jack pads can cause the jack to damage the undercarriage, leading to costly repairs.
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