Installing a vehicle jack requires strict adherence to proper procedures to ensure safety and prevent the vehicle from tipping over or sustaining chassis damage.
Pre-installation Preparation
Site Selection: Park the vehicle on flat, solid ground away from traffic and turn on the hazard warning lights.
Vehicle Securing: Engage the parking brake; shift automatic transmissions to "Park" (P) and manual transmissions to first gear or reverse. Place a warning triangle in the direction of oncoming traffic.
Auxiliary Stabilization: Use wheel chocks to secure the wheel diagonally opposite the flat tire; if the ground is soft, place wooden planks or bricks underneath beforehand.
Tool Verification: Retrieve the jack, handle, and wrench, and confirm that the jack's rated load capacity is sufficient for the vehicle's total weight.
Core Installation Steps
Locate the Designated Support Point:Support points are located along the inner rocker panel (below the doors) or the edges of the chassis, often marked by a thickened protrusion or a triangular symbol. Common locations are 20 cm behind the front wheel or 20 cm in front of the rear wheel; consult the vehicle owner's manual for exact locations.
Position the Jack: Align the jack's base vertically beneath the support point. Ensure the base sits flat on the ground and the top saddle engages precisely with the support point, keeping the jack upright without tilting.
Lift the Vehicle Steadily: Operate the jack by turning the handle evenly and slowly. Raise the vehicle until the tire is slightly off the ground (approximately 5–10 cm), then stop. Monitor the vehicle's stability throughout the lifting process to prevent swaying or shifting.
Secondary Safety Reinforcement: If work must be performed underneath the vehicle, use dedicated jack stands or sturdy wooden blocks for additional support; never rely solely on the jack to support the vehicle for an extended period.
