How to Use a Jack and Wrench Safely for Car Maintenance at Home

Doing basic car maintenance at home is a great way to save time and money—if done safely. Whether you're changing a tire, inspecting brakes, or cleaning the underbody, using a jack and wrench properly is crucial. Misuse of these tools can lead to serious injury or vehicle damage. That’s why every car owner should know how to use a jack and wrench safely before attempting any DIY car work.

This guide walks you through the safe and effective use of a jack and wrench, especially for home car maintenance.

Tools You’ll Need

Before getting started, make sure you have the following:

• Jack (Scissor jack or hydraulic jack)

  
  

• Wrench (Lug wrench or telescopic wrench)

• Wheel chocks or bricks (to prevent car movement)

• Jack stands (for extra safety)

• Gloves and safety glasses (optional but recommended)

? Step-by-Step: How to Use a Jack and Wrench Safely

✅ Step 1: Park on a Flat, Solid Surface

• Engage the parking brake.

• Place your car in gear (manual) or park (automatic).

• Avoid sloped or soft surfaces like gravel.

Pro Tip: A level, concrete driveway is ideal for using a jack and wrench.

✅ Step 2: Use Wheel Chocks

• Place chocks (or heavy objects like bricks) in front of and behind the wheels that will stay on the ground.

• This prevents the car from rolling while elevated.

✅ Step 3: Locate the Jacking Point

• Refer to your car’s manual to find the correct jacking points (usually behind the front wheels or in front of the rear wheels on the car’s frame).

• Never place the jack under plastic trim or the middle of the bumper.

✅ Step 4: Loosen the Lug Nuts (Before Lifting)

• Use your wrench to slightly loosen (not remove) the lug nuts of the wheel you’re working on.

• This is easier while the tire is still on the ground.

✅ Step 5: Position and Raise the Jack

• Align the jack under the proper jacking point.

• Turn the handle or pump the lever (depending on the type of jack) to lift the car until the tire is about 2–3 inches off the ground.

Caution: Only raise the car high enough to work comfortably and safely.

✅ Step 6: Insert Jack Stands

• Once the vehicle is raised, place jack stands under the frame for support.

• Lower the car slightly so the jack stands take the weight.

• Never rely on a jack alone for long tasks.

✅ Step 7: Remove the Lug Nuts and Wheel

• Use your wrench to completely remove the loosened lug nuts.

• Pull the wheel off and proceed with the necessary maintenance or repair.

✅ Step 8: Reinstall the Wheel

• Place the wheel back onto the hub.

• Hand-tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern (tightening opposite sides diagonally) to ensure even pressure.

✅ Step 9: Lower the Vehicle

• Remove the jack stands carefully.

• Lower the car slowly using the jack until it rests fully on the ground.

✅ Step 10: Fully Tighten the Lug Nuts

• Now that the car is on the ground, use your wrench to fully tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern again.

⚠️ Important Safety Tips When Using a Jack and Wrench

• Never work under a car supported by a jack alone—always use jack stands.

• Always carry wheel chocks in your trunk for added safety.

• Avoid over-tightening lug nuts—it can strip threads or damage bolts.

• Keep your tools clean, rust-free, and stored properly after use.

• Practice changing a tire at home before you're forced to do it on the roadside.

? When Should You Use a Jack and Wrench at Home?

• Changing flat tires

• Inspecting or cleaning brakes

• Replacing brake pads or rotors

• Underbody cleaning or oil leak inspection

• Suspension component check-ups

Conclusion

Using a jack and wrench safely is one of the most empowering skills a car owner can have. With the right tools, proper setup, and safety precautions, you can handle many small repairs and maintenance tasks from the comfort of your own garage. Not only does it save time and money, but it also builds your confidence and understanding of your vehicle.