For a 2013 Honda Civic, the safe spots to place jack stands are the front and rear crossmembers of the subframe, with optional use of pinch-weld points for side lifting if your manual allows it. Always chock wheels, level the car, and support it on sturdy stands rated for the vehicle’s weight.
Understanding the proper jack points
Knowing the exact jacking points helps prevent damage and reduces the risk of the vehicle shifting while you’re under it. The Civic’s factory guidance centers on the underbody crossmembers for front and rear support, with side lifting relying on reinforced areas near the rocker panels if instructed by your manual.
Front jack point
Use the front center crossmember (engine cradle/subframe) as the primary lifting point. This is located just behind the front bumper and radiator area, where the crossmember is reinforced to bear the car’s weight when lifting from the front.
- Front center subframe crossmember (engine cradle) behind the radiator support
- Avoid exhaust components, oil pan, fuel lines, or thin sheet metal as contact points
- Ensure the crossmember surface is clean and free of corrosion
Concluding: Once lifted with the floor jack at this point, slide jack stands under the same crossmember area or adjacent reinforced sections to support the front of the vehicle.
Rear jack point
Position the rear floor jack under the rear center crossmember or the appropriate rear subframe crossmember. This point is typically found toward the middle of the rear undercarriage, behind the rear wheels.
- Rear center crossmember (rear subframe)
- Avoid fuel lines, exhaust, and suspension arms as contact points
- Confirm solid contact with the crossmember before lifting
Concluding: After raising the rear, place jack stands under the rear crossmember to keep the car securely supported.
Side lifting and pinch weld considerations
If you need to lift a side for tasks such as tire rotation, consult the owner’s manual for any approved side-jacking points. When allowed, jack stands should be placed under the structural portions near the pinch welds rather than on delicate panel surfaces.
- Pinch weld lifting points along the rocker panels near the doors (only if your manual specifies them)
- Place stands on solid, reinforced sections adjacent to the pinch welds
Concluding: Side lifting can be convenient, but always ensure the stands are positioned on strong, designated anchor points to avoid bending or crushing body panels.
Safety essentials and best practices
Before you begin lifting, prepare the workspace and equipment to maximize stability and safety.
- Park on level ground and engage the parking brake
- Chock all wheels that remain on the ground
- Use jack stands rated for at least 2–3 tons per stand (3 tons is a common, comfortable margin for a Civic)
- Never rely on a floor jack alone to support the vehicle while you work underneath
Concluding: Double-check the stands for stability and ensure the vehicle cannot shift or roll while you are beneath it.
What to do after you’re finished
Lower the vehicle slowly, remove the stands, un-chock the wheels, and ensure the car is secure on the ground before removing equipment or driving away.
Summary
In essence, for a 2013 Honda Civic, use the front and rear subframe crossmembers as your primary jack stand anchors, with side lifting limited to approved pinch-weld points if your manual allows it. Always work on level ground with wheel chocks in place, and use properly rated jack stands. When in doubt, consult the owner’s manual or a certified mechanic to confirm the exact locations for your specific trim and condition.