Use the pinch welds along the rocker panels near each wheel, or the reinforced front and rear jack points identified in your owner's manual.
Across Honda models—sedans, SUVs, and hatchbacks—jack points are designed to transfer weight to the vehicle’s structural members rather than fragile body panels. Since locations can vary by model and year, always check the specific diagram in your owner's manual and use the proper jack and safety equipment. Avoid lifting from bumper covers, exhaust components, or other non-structural parts.
Identifying the correct jacking points
The following points cover the typical locations found on many Honda cars, including sedans, SUVs, and hatchbacks. Always confirm on your model's diagram.
- Front pinch welds: On each side, along the rocker panel just behind the front wheel well. The jack saddle should sit on the reinforced seam and not on plastic panels.
- Rear pinch welds: On each side, along the rocker panel near the rear wheel well, with the saddle aligned to the pinch weld.
- Dedicated crossmember points: Some Honda models have a marked center jack point or reinforced crossmember under the engine cradle or rear subframe; use these only if your manual marks them as jacking points.
Using the listed points helps ensure the lifting force is transmitted to the vehicle's structural frame and not to delicate bodywork or underbody coverings.
Safe lifting steps
Before you lift, prepare the car and the environment. The following steps outline a typical, safe procedure used by many Honda owners.
- Park on a level surface and engage the emergency/parking brake. Chock the wheels on the opposite side of the lift to prevent rolling.
- Loosen the lug nuts about a half-turn while the wheel is still on the ground to make final removal easier later.
- Position the jack at the correct jacking point (as identified above) and slowly begin to lift the vehicle until most of the weight is off the ground and the wheel clears the surface.
- Place a jack stand under a solid support point near the lifting area and adjust height as needed. Do not rely on the jack alone for support.
- Lower the car onto the jack stands slowly and evenly, then recheck the stability before continuing any work.
- If you need to remove the wheel, do so, perform your maintenance, then reinstall the wheel, tighten lug nuts lightly, raise the car, remove stands, then torque lug nuts to spec in a star pattern after lowering fully.
Following these safety steps can reduce the risk of damage or injury while you're changing a tire or doing maintenance on a Honda.
Summary
For most Honda models, lift from the pinch welds along the rocker panels near each wheel or from any model-specific center crossmember jack points noted in the owner's manual. Always chock wheels, loosen lug nuts beforehand, and use sturdy jack stands on solid surfaces. When in doubt, consult the manual or contact a Honda dealer for model-specific guidance.