Floor Jack and Jack Stands Guide: Lift Your Car Safely
A jack lifts the car. Stands hold it up. Never get under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
Choosing a floor jack
- Capacity: pick a rating comfortably above the weight you'll lift. You usually lift one end or corner, not the whole car.
- Low profile if your car sits low. Check the jack's minimum saddle height.
- Lift height high enough for trucks and SUVs, if you own one.
- Steel jacks are durable but heavy. Aluminum is lighter and easier to carry.
Choosing jack stands
- Buy them in pairs, rated for your vehicle.
- A locking pin or double-lock mechanism adds a second layer of safety.
- A wide base is more stable.
- Pay attention to safety recalls on jack stands, and check the manufacturer's recall page for your model.
Safe lifting procedure
- Work on flat, solid ground (not asphalt on a hot day, and not gravel). Put the car in park or in gear, set the parking brake, and chock the wheels opposite the end you're lifting.
- Use the lift points shown in your owner's manual.
- Lift, place the stands at the specified support points, then lower the car onto the stands.
- Shake-test the car before you go under it.
Ready to work? See the oil change tool kit and brake job guide.
| Product | Best for | What to look for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Low-profile floor jack | Cars and lowered vehicles | Minimum saddle height, rated capacity | Check current price at your retailer |
| High-lift floor jack | Trucks and SUVs | Maximum lift height, rated capacity | Check current price at your retailer |
| Jack stands (pair) | Every DIYer | Rated capacity, locking pin, wide base | Check current price at your retailer |
| Wheel chocks | Preventing rollaway | Rubber, sized for your tires | Check current price at your retailer |
Research-based roundup of product categories. We have not lab-tested these products. Confirm specs and fitment on the retailer's listing.