Vehicles covered by this manual were factory-equipped with a scissors jack. This jack is used by positioning it under a jacking point on the side sill, then turning the screw to raise/lower the vehicle. Specific instructions for the use of this jack, including the jacking points, are found in the owner's manual (and often on stickers attached to the jack or in the luggage compartment). Although this type of jack is suitable for tire changing, you might need a better jack for maintenance.
| Fig. 1: The scissor jack's saddle engages a jacking
point on the side sill — all models
|
| Fig. 2: Common floor jack lifting point — front
of vehicle
|
If you plan to use a jack for more than the occasional tire change, consider a floor jack. Unlike the scissors jack, a floor jack relies on hydraulics to lift its load. After the floor jack is rolled under a lifting member, you simply pump the handle for easy lifting. This will not only save some time, but could also save your back! Generally, when lifting the front of a vehicle, the floor jack should be positioned under the center of the crossmember. When lifting the rear of a vehicle, the floor jack should usually be placed under the center of the crossmember or differential. For specific information on floor jack use, please refer to the jack manufacturer's instructions.
NOTE: Since not all vehicles utilize the same lifting points, it is imperative to verify correct placement before raising the vehicle. Failure to observe the manufacturer's recommended lifting points and/or procedures can jeopardize you as well as the vehicle.
Although the specifics vary with the jack being used, there are some general precautions to observe when jacking:
NOTE: Never support the vehicle using a suspension member or underbody panel; since damage and/or injury could occur.
| Fig. 3: Common floor jack lifting point — rear
of vehicle
|
