How safe is a Floor Jack? Everything You Need to Know

Floor jacks are an essential tool for anyone who wants to fix their car or perform any mechanical work at home. They lift your car so that you can access the underside and carry out repairs with ease.

However, floor jacks can be hazardous if used improperly. This article will help you understand whether a floor jack is safe to use and the safety measures you should take while using it.

Is a Floor Jack Safe?

When used correctly, a floor jack is safe to use. However, there are potential hazards associated with using a floor jack, which could result in severe injuries or even death. Mainly, using a floor jack improperly or ignoring the capacity limitations is dangerous and could cause the jack to malfunction or fail.

Before using a floor jack, check the manufacturer's guidelines and instructions on the label to ensure that the product is designed to lift the weight of your vehicle. Using a jack that isn't sturdy enough to lift the weight of your car puts you at risk of getting crushed.

A floor jack should lift the vehicle by the recommended points, usually marked in your vehicle's manual or the sticker located under the hood. Using the floor jack besides the recommended points can damage your car and even cause it to fall.

Safety Tips for Using a Floor Jack

To ensure that you and your vehicle are protected, here are some crucial safety tips to keep in mind when using a floor jack:

Always ensure that the Floor is Level

One of the most important safety considerations when using a floor jack is to ensure that the floor on which you are using the jack is level. A sloped or uneven floor can cause the jack to tilt and potentially cause the vehicle to fall off the supports. It is recommended to use a level surface such as a concrete garage floor whenever possible.

Position the Jack Correctly

Another critical safety consideration is to position the jack as recommended and ensure that it is stable. The jack should be placed squarely under the vehicle frame, avoiding any delicate components or pinch points, and it should be placed on a solid foundation.

The recommended jacking points for your vehicle can be found in the owner's manual and should always be followed.

Check the Load Capacity

Before using a floor jack, always check the load capacity of the jack to ensure that it can support the weight of your vehicle. Overloading the jack can lead to malfunctioning and cause a dangerous situation.

The load capacity of the jack should always exceed the weight of the vehicle being lifted, including any additional weight that may be added during the repair/maintenance.

Lubricate the Jack

Adequate lubrication is crucial to prevent a floor jack from malfunctioning. Always ensure that the jack is adequately lubricated with appropriate grease and oil before each use. Poor lubrication can cause the jack to seize, leading to the vehicle falling off the supports.

Use Jack Stands

Finally, always use jack stands to support the vehicle whenever it's up in the air. Never rely solely on the floor jack to hold the weight of the vehicle.

Jack stands should be placed under sturdy locations on the vehicle's frame, including the manufacturer's recommended jacking points, to ensure stability and safety.

Final Thought

Floor jacks are generally safe to use; when used correctly, they can make your car repairs and maintenance comparatively easy. However, it is crucial to follow the manufacturer's safety guidelines when using the jack, avoid exceeding the jack's weight capacity, and use jack stands whenever necessary.

This way, you can prevent accidents and ensure that you don't incur costly medical bills.