For a 2013 Honda CR-V, the safe lifting points are clearly defined on the vehicle’s underbody: use the front center jack point on the engine cradle crossmember, the rear center jack point on the rear crossmember, and the pinch welds along the rocker panels for side lifting. Always use sturdy jack stands and work on level ground. If you’re unsure, consult the owner’s manual or a Honda service professional.
Understanding the official lifting points
The CR-V’s underbody features reinforced locations designed to bear the weight of a jack and provide safe access to the underside. The primary categories are center front, center rear, and side pinch weld points. These locations minimize the risk of damaging the frame, exhaust, or fuel lines while lifting the vehicle.
To ensure accuracy, always refer to the owner’s manual for your exact trim and production month, as there can be minor variations or updated guidance. If you cannot locate the points yourself, a dealer or qualified mechanic can confirm the correct spots.
Before using any lifting point, confirm the vehicle is on level ground, the parking brake is engaged, and the wheels are chocked to prevent movement.
- Front center jack point: Located on the reinforced engine cradle crossmember beneath the front of the vehicle, typically just behind the bumper. This point is designed for center lifting with a floor jack.
- Rear center jack point: Located on the reinforced rear subframe crossmember, near the spare tire well. This point is intended for center lifting at the rear axle area.
- Side pinch weld points: Found along the rocker panels on both sides, close to the doors. These are used to lift one side of the vehicle with a floor jack when you need to remove a wheel or access the underside on that side.
Always use a padded surface or a jack pad when contacting the pinch welds to minimize potential cosmetic damage to the rocker panels. Never place the jack on exhaust components, the fuel tank, or any non-reinforced area.
After selecting the proper points, ensure the vehicle remains stable by using jack stands rated for the vehicle’s weight. Never rely solely on a hydraulic jack to support the car while you work underneath it.
Best practices for lifting safely
Proper safety practices help prevent injury and damage when lifting a CR-V. The following guidelines summarize essential precautions you should follow whenever you jack up the vehicle.
- Park on a flat, solid surface and engage the parking brake; turn off the ignition and remove the keys.
- Place wheel chocks on the wheels that remain on the ground to prevent rolling.
- Use a floor jack with a sufficient weight rating and place it on a level, non-slip pad.
- Position the jack at the correct lifting point, then raise slowly and evenly.
- Set high-quality jack stands under the vehicle at appropriate support points and slowly lower onto them before working underneath.
- Inspect the area for any undercarriage components, such as exhausts or fuel lines, that could be damaged during lifting.
- Do not crawl under the car until it is securely supported by jack stands on solid ground.
If you’re uncertain about the exact points or how to safely perform a lift, seek professional assistance. Working with a vehicle’s undercarriage can be hazardous when done incorrectly.
Summary
The Honda CR-V 2013 has designated lifting points for safe jacking: the front center jack point on the engine cradle crossmember, the rear center jack point on the rear crossmember, and pinch welds along the rocker panels for side lifting. Always use jack stands, work on level ground, and follow the owner’s manual or a certified technician’s guidance to prevent damage or injury.