Use the manufacturer’s jacking points listed in the owner’s manual; they’re typically reinforced spots near the wheels or underbody crossmembers. When in doubt, avoid soft panels and use proper crossmembers or pinch-weld areas.
Locating the correct jacking points is essential for safe lifting and avoiding damage to the undercarriage. This guide explains how to identify the official points and the safety steps you should follow when lifting a car, with practical tips for common vehicle layouts.
Where to find the jacking points
Use these identification steps to locate the official jacking points on most passenger cars. The exact spots vary by make and model, but several common patterns recur.
- Refer to the owner's manual or the door jamb sticker for the exact jack points.
- Look for reinforced pads along the pinch welds near each wheel; these are the most common jacking points on unibody cars.
- Check for embossed marks, arrows, or triangles on the rocker panels or frame around the wheel wells that indicate a jack point.
- For older vehicles or trucks, identify the sturdy crossmembers or frame rails that are rated for lifting.
- If you cannot find marked points, contact the manufacturer or a qualified mechanic before lifting.
Locating the correct jack points protects the vehicle’s structure and ensures the jack contacts a solid surface rather than a fragile panel or non-structural area.
Understanding common layouts for jacking points
Most modern cars use one of a few common configurations. Knowing which applies to your vehicle helps you lift safely without guessing.
Unibody vehicles
Jacking points are typically located along reinforced pinch welds near each wheel and sometimes at a central front crossmember. Use a rubber pad on the jack saddle to spread the load.
Body-on-frame vehicles and trucks
These often use the main frame rails or crossmembers as designated lifting points. Avoid lifting from body panels or exhaust components.
Using the right points is critical; when in doubt, defer to the manual or a professional.
Safety-first: lifting and supporting the vehicle
Once the points are located, prepare the lifting setup and follow safe practices to keep the vehicle stable while raised.
- Chock the wheels on the opposite end to prevent roll.
- Engage the parking brake and ensure the transmission is in Park (automatic) or low gear (manual).
- Place the floor jack under the designated jacking point and use a jack pad if needed to avoid slipping.
- Lift slowly until the tire just clears the ground, then place jack stands at the manufacturer’s specified support locations and slowly lower the vehicle onto the stands.
- Avoid getting under the vehicle until it is securely supported on stands and stable on a flat, solid surface.
- Keep work area clear of bystanders and use wheel chocks on all wheels not being lifted.
With proper points and supports, you can safely inspect tires, brakes, or perform maintenance. Never rely on a jack alone to support a vehicle.
What to do if the manual is unavailable
If the owner's manual is missing, consult the manufacturer’s website, a dealership, or an experienced technician. Do not improvise by lifting from non-structural parts or using a makeshift fulcrum.
Summary
Locating the correct jacking points is essential for safe vehicle lifting. Always verify spots in the owner’s manual or authoritative guides, identify reinforced pads or frame members, and use proper lifting equipment with wheel chocks and jack stands. Safety should guide every lift, and if in doubt, seek professional assistance.