1. Preparation

• Park on a Flat Surface: Ensure the car is on a flat, stable surface like a concrete driveway.

• Engage the Parking Brake: This prevents the car from rolling.

• Chock the Wheels: Place wheel chocks or blocks behind the wheels on the opposite end of where you'll be lifting (e.g., if lifting the front, chock the rear wheels).

2. Locate the Jack Points

• Consult the Owner’s Manual: Find the recommended jacking points in the vehicle’s manual. These are typically reinforced areas designed to handle the car's weight.

• Common Jack Points:

• Front: Frame rails, crossmember.

• Rear: Rear axle, differential, or rear frame rails.

• Side: Pinch welds behind the front wheels and in front of the rear wheels.

3. Position the Floor Jack

• Align the Jack: Place the floor jack under the designated jacking point. Ensure the jack's saddle (lifting pad) is centered on the jacking point.

• Check Alignment: Double-check that the jack is squarely positioned under the point and the lifting pad is secure.

4. Lift the Vehicle

• Pump the Jack Handle: Slowly pump the handle of the floor jack to raise the vehicle. Keep an eye on the car as you lift to ensure it's stable and the jack remains properly positioned.

• Lift to Desired Height: Continue lifting until the car is high enough to perform the needed work. Ensure there's enough clearance for jack stands.

5. Place Jack Stands

• Position the Stands: Slide jack stands under the vehicle, placing them under solid frame points, not on any plastic or weak areas.

• Lower the Car onto the Stands: Slowly release the floor jack to lower the car onto the jack stands. Ensure the car is stable on the stands before removing the jack.

6. Remove the Jack

• Take the Floor Jack Out: Once the car is securely on the jack stands, you can remove the floor jack.

7. Lowering the Vehicle

• Reposition the Floor Jack: After completing your work, position the floor jack back under the jacking point.

• Lift Slightly: Raise the car just enough to remove the jack stands.

• Remove the Stands: Take out the jack stands and slowly lower the car back to the ground.

• Remove the Jack: Once the car is fully lowered, remove the floor jack.

8. Final Steps

• Remove Chocks: Take away any wheel chocks.

• Check Stability: Ensure the car is stable and ready to drive.

Safety Tips:

• Never Work Under a Car Supported Only by a Jack: Always use jack stands for safety.

• Avoid Plastic Parts: Never position the jack on plastic or weak parts of the vehicle.

• Work in Good Lighting: Ensure you can clearly see the jacking points and the area around the vehicle.