How to Use a Car Jack

Curious about how to use a car jack? Many drivers in Sparta, Onalaska, and the surrounding areas have asked our service technicians about this. Working with a jack stand to change a tire or check under the car is not complicated, but you do need to follow specific guidelines to ensure proper usage and safety. We at Morrie's West Salem Chevrolet outlined how to use a jack for a car to help you maintain one of your biggest investments! And remember, our service center is here whenever your vehicle requires professional attention. 

How to Use a Jack For a Car: A Step-by-Step Guide 

Using a jack stand in La Crosse or anywhere else requires following these steps: 

• Park on Level Ground. Ensure your vehicle is parked on level ground, such as on your flat driveway or in an empty parking lot. Never use a jack stand on grass, dirt, sand, or any other non-pavement surface to avoid sinking-related safety issues.
• Use the Wheel Wedges: Fix your wheel wedges, bricks, or wooden blocks behind the tires that will stay on the ground to keep them secure. 
• Switch on the Emergency Brake: Place the car in “Park” before activating the emergency brake. If your car has a manual transmission, put it in first gear while using the parking brake. 
• Check Your Owner’s Manual: Refer to the owner’s manual to determine correct jack stand placement for your make and model. For example, if you need to lift the front of the vehicle, place the jack under the front center frame. 
• Crank or Pump: Adjust the jack in light of the type, scissor or hydraulic. For a hydraulic jack, insert the handle into the jack body, then pump said handle. For a scissor jack, insert the rod and crank. Then, lift the vehicle to your preferred height. 
• Place the Jack Stand Under the Vehicle Frame. Fix the jack so it is under the “pinch weld,” or a reinforced car frame section. 
• Adjust the Stand Height: Use the pin, screw, or pawl (in light of your jack stand type) before locking the device into place. Slowly lower the vehicle until it is securely on the jack stand. 
• Remove the Jack: Do so only after the car is secure on the stand.Give the vehicle a gentle push to ensure it won’t move. 
• Lift, Then Remove: After changing a tire or doing other maintenance work, lower the vehicle several inches using the jack. Next, remove the jack stand. 
• Lower the Car: Carefully lower the vehicle before removing the jack and removing the wheel wedges or blocks. 

Schedule Professional Auto Maintenance With Morrie's West Salem Chevrolet 

Now you know how to use a car jack! If your vehicle needs professional auto care now or any time in the future, please contact our service department! We offer a full suite of auto services from certified, friendly technicians. Our team also invites you to review our owner benefits and how to program a Chevrolet key fob! 

We look forward to seeing you soon!