Use the reinforced points on the car’s underside—the pinch-welds along the rocker panels and the reinforced crossmembers—for safe lifting. The exact locations can vary by year and trim, so always check your owner's manual for the precise jacking points.
In this article, we identify the typical jack points on most Honda Accord models, explain how to locate them on your car, and outline the safety steps you should follow when lifting the vehicle.
Jack points by area
Identify the best lifting points based on whether you’re working on the front or the rear of the vehicle.
Front jack points
Use one of these front-area points to lift the front end of the Accord.
- Front center jack point — a reinforced crossmember (engine cradle) under the front of the car, near the centerline. This point is designed to lift the entire front end.
- Front pinch welds — the reinforced sections along the rocker panels just behind each front wheel. These are ideal for lifting one side at a time.
Concluding note: These front locations are the most common for raising the front end and for supporting it during tire changes or inspections.
Rear jack points
Use one of these rear-area points to lift the rear end of the Accord.
- Rear pinch welds — the reinforced sections along the rocker panels near the rear wheels. They’re used to lift one side of the car at a time or to shift weight when working at the back.
- Rear center jack point — a reinforced point under the rear crossmember for lifting the entire rear end.
Concluding note: The rear pinch welds and the rear center point provide stable options for lifting the back of the vehicle.
Step-by-step jacking procedure
Follow these steps to lift a Honda Accord safely and securely.
- Park on level ground, engage the parking brake, and place the transmission in Park (automatic) or first gear (manual). If you’re lifting one end, place wheel chocks on the opposite wheels.
- Locate the correct jack point for the area you’re lifting (front or rear) and position the floor jack pad squarely on the point.
- Slowly lift the vehicle just enough to clear the wheel or to reach the height you need. Do not raise the car more than necessary at this stage.
- Place sturdy jack stands under appropriate support points near the lifting area (on pinch welds or crossmembers as recommended). Carefully lower the jack so the car rests securely on the stands.
- If you’re removing a wheel or performing work beneath the car, ensure it is fully supported by the stands before you begin your task. Never rely on the hydraulic jack alone.
- When finished, raise the car slightly to free the stands, remove them, and slowly lower the car to the ground. Remove wheel chocks and test that the vehicle is stable before driving.
Concluding note: A proper setup with jack stands is essential for safety. If you’re uncertain about locations or procedures, seek professional assistance.
Safety tips and common mistakes
These practices help prevent accidents and damage while jacking up a Honda Accord.
- Chock all wheels that remain on the ground to prevent rolling, even on level surfaces.
- Always use the manufacturer’s designated jack points and, where possible, use jack stands for additional support.
- Avoid lifting from exhaust components, suspension arms, or any thin structural panels not rated as jack points.
- Ensure the floor jack and stands are on a stable, flat surface; soft ground or uneven pavement increases the risk of collapse.
- Don’t crawl under the car until it is securely supported by stands and verified as stable.
Concluding note: Following these safety practices reduces the risk of injury and vehicle damage during a maintenance job.
Model-year variations and references
Jack point locations can vary across different Honda Accord generations and trims. Some models use clearly labeled pinch-weld reinforcement points, while others may have additional center lift points. Always refer to your specific year and trim’s Owner’s Manual and the labels inside the driver’s door jamb for exact guidance. If in doubt, contact a Honda service professional.
Summary
For most Honda Accords, the safest jack points are the reinforced pinch welds along the rocker panels (one side at a time) and the reinforced crossmembers at the front and rear for lifting the ends. Always verify exact locations in the owner's manual, use a floor jack with proper pads, and support the vehicle with jack stands on solid ground. Follow a careful, step-by-step procedure and prioritize safety to complete tire changes or under-car maintenance effectively.