Published on: February 23, 2023
Written by Gian Camilo / Fact-checked by Harun Khan
Regular oil changes are crucial to maintaining your car’s health and ensuring its longevity. Performing an oil change requires jacking up your vehicle, which can be a daunting task for some. Not only do you need to choose the right type of jack, but you also need to know how to use it properly and safely. Improper jacking can lead to accidents, damage to your car, or even bodily harm.
This article will guide you on the best way to jack up a car for an oil change. We will cover the essential steps and precautions you need to take to perform this task safely and effectively.
Whether a seasoned DIYer or a beginner, this article will provide the information you need to make your next oil change a breeze. So, let’s dive in and learn how to jack up a car safely and confidently!
How to Choose the Right Jack?
Choosing the right jack is important for jacking up your car for an oil change. Different types of jacks are available in the market, and each has its own advantages and disadvantages. Here are some criteria to consider when choosing the right jack for your car:
- Weight Capacity: Before purchasing a jack, make sure it can support the weight of your car. The weight capacity of the jack should be higher than the weight of your vehicle.
- Type of Vehicle: The vehicle you have also plays a role in choosing the right jack. For instance, a low-profile jack is ideal for sports cars or vehicles with low ground clearance, while a hydraulic jack is suitable for heavier vehicles such as trucks or SUVs.
- Portability: If you need to carry the jack around, choose one lightweight and easy to move.
- Height Range: The jack should have a good height range to lift your car to a comfortable working height.
- Budget: Jacks come in different price ranges. Set a budget and choose a jack that meets your needs within that budget.
Considering these criteria, you can choose the right jack for your car, making the oil change process smoother and safer.
Pros and Cons of Different Types of Jacks
Here’s the list of pros and cons for each type of jack:
| Type of Jack | Pros | Cons |
| Scissor Jack | Compact and lightweight, easy to store in a car, and affordable. | Slow and requires significant effort to lift a vehicle, less stable than other types of jacks. |
| Hydraulic Floor Jack | Can lift heavy vehicles, is faster and easier to use than scissor jacks, and is more stable. | Larger and heavier, they are more expensive than scissor jacks. |
| Bottle Jack | Can lift very heavy vehicles, more stable than scissor jacks. | Bulky and heavy, it can be not easy to position under a vehicle. |
| Hi-Lift Jack | It can be used for various tasks beyond just lifting a vehicle, such as winching or spreading, and it is durable. | Taller and more difficult to store, dangerous if not used properly, and requires more effort than hydraulic jacks. |
| ATV/UTV Jack | Specifically designed for lifting all-terrain vehicles, easy to transport, and easy to use. | Limited to lifting smaller vehicles, it may not be suitable for larger or heavier vehicles. |
It’s important to note that while these are general pros and cons for each type of jack, the specific features and quality of a particular jack can vary greatly between brands and models. It’s important to research and choose a jack appropriate for the specific vehicle and use case.
How to Prepare Your Vehicle to Jack Up?
Here are the steps to prepare your vehicle for jacking:
Find a Safe and Level Surface:
Before jacking up your vehicle, you need to find a safe and level surface to work on. Avoid jacking your vehicle on a slope, soft or uneven ground, or near a busy road.
Engage the Parking Brake:
To prevent your vehicle from moving, engage the parking brake before jacking it up. This will help keep the vehicle in place while you lift it.
Check the Wheels:
To prevent the vehicle from moving, place chocks or wedges behind the wheels that are not being lifted.
Locate the Jack Points:
Refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual to locate the recommended jack points on your vehicle. These are the points on the vehicle’s underside where the jack should be placed.
Clear the Area:
Before lifting the vehicle, make sure the area around the jack points is clear of debris, dirt, or other objects that may interfere with the lifting process.
Inspect the Jack:
Make sure the jack you are using is in good working condition and is appropriate for the weight of your vehicle. Ensure that the jack is properly positioned and stable before lifting the vehicle.
Lift the Vehicle:
Use the jack to slowly and steadily lift the vehicle to the desired height. Once the vehicle is lifted, a jack stands underneath it to provide additional support and safety.
Remember to always follow the instructions provided with your jack and to take necessary safety precautions when working on your vehicle.
Step-by-step Instructions for Properly Using a Jack
To properly use a jack place, follow this step-by-step guideline-
Step 1: Prepare Your Vehicle
Refer to the previous answer on preparing your vehicle to be jacked up.
Step 2: Position the Jack
Place the jack in the recommended jack point. This is usually located underneath the vehicle, near the wheel you wish to lift. Make sure the jack is centered and level.
Step 3: Raise the Vehicle
Use the handle or lever to pump the jack until it contacts the vehicle. Pump the handle until the vehicle is lifted to the desired height.
Step 4: Place Jack Stands
Once the vehicle is lifted, place a jack stand under the vehicle at a recommended support point. Make sure the jack stand is securely in place before lowering the jack.
Step 5: Lower the Vehicle
Slowly lower the vehicle onto the jack stand by carefully releasing the jack handle. Ensure the vehicle is securely on the jack stand before releasing the jack.
Step 6: Remove the Jack
Once the jack supports the vehicle, you can remove the jack from underneath the vehicle.
Step 7: Complete Your Work
You can now perform maintenance or repair work with the vehicle safely lifted and supported. When finished, reverse the process to lower the vehicle and remove the jack stand.
Please do not place any body parts under a vehicle supported only by a jack, as it can be dangerous and cause injury or death. So, follow those steps properly to avoid any accidents.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Jacking Up a Car
here are some common mistakes to avoid when jacking up a car:
- Using the wrong type of jack: Always use the recommended jack for your vehicle, as using the wrong type of jack can be dangerous and cause damage to the vehicle.
- Not using jack stands: Only rely on a jack to support the vehicle’s weight, as jacks can fail and cause the vehicle to fall. Always use jack stands to provide additional support and safety.
- Lifting the vehicle on an uneven surface: Always lift the vehicle on a flat and level surface. Lifting on an uneven surface can cause the vehicle to slip or fall off the jack, resulting in injury or damage.
- Lifting the vehicle by the wrong point: Always refer to the owner’s manual to locate the recommended lifting points for your vehicle. Lifting the vehicle by the wrong point can damage it and cause it to fall off the jack.
- Overloading the jack: Stay within the recommended weight capacity of the jack, as overloading it can cause the jack to fail and the vehicle to fall.
- Not securing the jack properly: Ensure the jack is properly positioned and stable before lifting the vehicle. A poorly positioned jack can cause the vehicle to tip or fall.
- Not engaging the parking brake: Always use it before jacking up the vehicle to prevent it from moving.
- Not using wheel chocks: Use wheel chocks to prevent the vehicle from rolling while being lifted.
Always follow the instructions provided with your jack and take necessary safety precautions when working on your vehicle.
How to Perform an Oil Change?
Here are the steps for performing an oil change:
- Before starting, ensure you have all the necessary materials, including oil, an oil filter, a wrench, an oil drain pan, a funnel, and a rag.
- Ensure your vehicle is parked on a level surface and the engine is off and cool. Turn on the hazard lights and engage the parking brake.
- Locate the oil drain plug under the engine. You can refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual if you need help determining its location.
- Place the oil drain pan underneath the drain plug and use a wrench to loosen and remove the plug. Let the old oil drain out completely into the pan.
- Use an oil filter wrench to remove the old oil filter. Before installing a new oil filter, lubricate the gasket with some oil. Tighten the new oil filter by hand until it’s snug.
- Replace the oil drain plug and use a funnel to pour in the new oil slowly. Ensure you add the correct amount of oil for your vehicle as specified in the owner’s manual.
- Check the oil level on the dipstick and add more oil if necessary.
- Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes to circulate the new oil.
- Turn off the engine and check for leaks around the oil drain plug and filter.
- Transfer the old oil to a sealed container and dispose of it at a proper recycling facility.
Always follow the instructions provided in your vehicle’s owner’s manual and take necessary safety precautions when performing an oil change. Also, check the oil change interval recommended by the manufacturer and change the oil as recommended to maintain your vehicle’s health.
How to Safely Lower Your Car?
Lowering your car can enhance its appearance and performance, but it’s important to do it safely. Start by choosing the right lowering kit that fits your car’s make and model. Check the suspension components for wear or damage, and install the kit according to the instructions.
Choose wheels and tires that work with the new ride height, and get a professional alignment to ensure your car drives properly. Finally, test drive carefully and address any problems immediately. Following these steps, you can safely lower your car and enjoy its new look and feel.
If you want to know why you should switch to conventional motor oil? Read here for details.
Outcome
changing your car’s oil is essential to routine maintenance, but it’s important to do it safely. Using a jack to lift the car can be dangerous if not done correctly, so it’s important to follow the proper steps. Start by choosing the right jack and finding a level surface to work on.
Place the jack correctly and use jack stands to secure the car. Remember to never get underneath the car while it’s supported by the jack alone. Following these guidelines and taking proper safety precautions, you can easily jack up your car for an oil change and keep yourself and your vehicle safe.
FAQ’s
Why is It Important to Jack Up a Car for an Oil Change?
It’s important to jack up a car for an oil change because it allows you to completely access the oil pan and drain the old oil. You may not be able to reach the oil pan without lifting the car, resulting in old oil being left behind. Additionally, jacking up the car ensures that it’s properly secured, reducing the risk of injury and damage to the vehicle. Lifting the car is important in properly maintaining your car’s engine and ensuring safe working conditions.
What Kind of Jack Should I Use to Lift My Car for an Oil Change?
When selecting a jack to lift your car for an oil change, it’s important to choose one that’s rated for the weight of your car. A hydraulic floor jack is popular because it’s easy to use and has a wide base for stability. It’s also recommended to use jack stands in conjunction with the jack for added safety. Avoid using scissors or bottle jacks, as they may not provide enough stability for the car’s weight.
How Do I Know if My Car is Safe to Jack Up?
Start by parking it on a level surface and turning off the engine to determine if your car is safe to jack up. Check the owner’s manual for the correct jacking points on your car and ensure they are free of rust or damage. Inspect the tires and brakes for wear or damage, and remove any loose items from the car’s underside. If everything looks good, you can proceed with jacking up the car, using a jack rated for the weight of your car, and using jack stands for added safety.
What Should I Do if My Car is on an Uneven Surface?
If your car is on an uneven surface, it’s important to find a level area to lift it. Attempting to jack up a car on an uneven surface can cause the car to tip or the jack to slip, resulting in serious injury or damage to the car. Consider using a drive-on ramp to raise the car if a level surface is unavailable. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use caution when driving onto the ramp.
Is It Safe to Get Under the Car While It’s on the Jack?
No, it is unsafe to get under the car while it’s on the jack alone. The jack is designed to lift the car, not to hold it in place. If the car were to fall off the jack, serious injury or death could occur. Always use jack stands to support the car once it’s been lifted. Jack should be placed in the recommended jacking points and rated for the car’s weight.