Different tools, different jobs
A floor jack is designed to raise or lower a vehicle. It is not intended to be the only support while someone works underneath. Hydraulic pressure can be lost, a component can fail or the jack can move.
Jack stands are designed to support a stationary vehicle after it has been lifted. A safe setup requires compatible equipment, solid ground, correct lifting and support points, and careful positioning.
Know the vehicle’s weight
Check the vehicle identification label and owner’s manual for applicable weight information. Do not estimate capacity based only on vehicle appearance or marketing categories such as compact, SUV or pickup.
The ratings printed on jacks and stands must be understood exactly as the manufacturer defines them. For jack stands, confirm whether the stated capacity applies to each individual stand or to the complete pair. Never assume.
Choose adequate rated capacity
Select equipment with a manufacturer-rated capacity appropriate for the vehicle and lifting procedure. Do not exceed any equipment rating.
Capacity is only one requirement. The jack must also fit beneath the approved lifting point and raise high enough for the stands to be installed at approved support locations.
Check the lifting range
Low vehicles may require a low-profile jack that can reach the lifting point without contacting body panels. Trucks and SUVs may require additional maximum lift height.
Never use unstable blocks, improvised extensions or unapproved adapters to compensate for insufficient lifting range. Use only accessories specifically approved by the equipment manufacturer for that model and application.
Find the approved lifting points
Vehicle lifting and support points vary. Using the wrong location can damage the vehicle or allow it to slip. Consult the owner’s manual or reliable service information for the exact vehicle.
The lifting point used by the jack may differ from the support points used by the stands. Plan the complete procedure before raising the vehicle so that both the jack and stands have suitable locations.
Use a solid, level surface
Lift and support the vehicle only on a hard, level and stable surface. Soft ground, sloped pavement, loose gravel and damaged surfaces can allow equipment to tilt or sink.
Do not work under a raised vehicle on a roadside or other unsafe location. If safe support cannot be established, use professional assistance.
Prepare the vehicle
- Read the vehicle, jack and jack-stand instructions completely.
- Park on a solid and level surface.
- Place the transmission in the manufacturer-recommended position.
- Apply the parking brake when directed by the vehicle procedure.
- Turn off the engine and remove unnecessary occupants and cargo.
- Chock the wheels that will remain on the ground.
- Keep children, pets and bystanders away from the work area.
Inspect the equipment first
Do not use a jack or stand that is bent, cracked, leaking, heavily corroded or missing parts. Confirm that adjustment mechanisms, locking components, wheels and handles operate as described by the manufacturer.
Labels and capacity markings should remain readable. If the equipment has been overloaded, dropped or involved in an incident, remove it from service until it has been evaluated according to the manufacturer’s guidance.
Lift slowly and watch the vehicle
Center the jack saddle at the approved lifting point and raise the vehicle gradually. Stop immediately if the jack tilts, the saddle moves, the surface shifts or the vehicle behaves unexpectedly.
Never reach underneath to reposition equipment while the vehicle is supported only by the jack.
Position the jack stands
Place the stands at the vehicle manufacturer’s approved support points. Make sure each stand’s base sits completely flat and the support saddle contacts the intended structural area.
If stands have adjustable posts, engage their locking system exactly as instructed. Both stands should be positioned consistently when supporting the same end of the vehicle.
Transfer the load carefully
Lower the jack slowly until the vehicle rests securely on the stands. Do not release the jack suddenly. Watch the stands and vehicle during the transfer to confirm that nothing shifts.
After the vehicle is supported, follow the equipment instructions for verifying stability from outside the danger area. Never test stability while positioned underneath the vehicle.
Keep the jack as secondary support only when allowed
Some procedures recommend leaving the floor jack lightly positioned as an additional precaution after the stands carry the vehicle’s weight. This does not replace jack stands.
Follow the specific instructions for the vehicle and equipment. The jack must not interfere with the stands or create an unstable load.
Never modify safety equipment
Do not weld, drill, bend or alter a jack or stand. Do not disable locks or substitute missing pins with bolts, screwdrivers or other improvised objects.
Use only replacement parts and accessories approved by the manufacturer for the exact equipment model.
Questions to ask before buying
- Is the rated capacity appropriate for the vehicle and procedure?
- Does the rating apply to one stand or the pair?
- Can the jack fit beneath the approved lifting point?
- Can it lift high enough for the stands to be positioned safely?
- Do the stand saddles fit the approved support points?
- Are operating instructions and capacity labels clear?
- Are replacement parts and manufacturer support available?
- What inspection and maintenance procedures are required?
Lowering the vehicle
Before lowering, remove tools, parts and people from beneath and around the vehicle. Confirm that the wheels and surrounding area are clear.
Raise the vehicle only enough to remove the stands, following the approved lifting procedure. Remove the stands completely, then lower the vehicle slowly and under control.
When to stop
Stop if you cannot identify the approved lifting and support points, if the surface is unsuitable, if the equipment is damaged or if the vehicle cannot be made stable. Use a qualified repair facility rather than improvising.
Bottom line
Choose a floor jack and stands using verified capacity, suitable lifting range and compatibility with the vehicle’s approved points. Never work beneath a vehicle supported only by a jack, and never compensate for unsuitable equipment with improvised materials.