How to Safely and Effectively Release a Car Jack: A Step-by-Step Guide

Changing a tire, performing routine maintenance, or addressing an undercarriage issue often necessitates lifting your vehicle with a car jack. But just as crucial as raising the car is safely lowering it. Releasing a car jack improperly can result in damage to your vehicle, injury, or even death. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the proper procedures for releasing a car jack, ensuring a smooth and safe experience every time.

Table of Contents

Understanding Car Jacks and Safety Precautions

Before diving into the specifics of releasing a car jack, it’s vital to understand the different types of jacks and the essential safety precautions to take. Using the correct jack for your vehicle and adhering to safety guidelines are paramount.

Types of Car Jacks

Several types of car jacks exist, each with its own mechanism and load capacity. The most common types include:

Scissor Jacks: Typically included with your car, these are compact and relatively inexpensive. They are operated by turning a screw mechanism, raising and lowering the vehicle.
Bottle Jacks: These hydraulic jacks are known for their high lifting capacity, making them suitable for larger vehicles. They use hydraulic fluid and a pump system for lifting.
Floor Jacks: Also known as trolley jacks, these roll on wheels and offer a wide base for stability. They use a hydraulic system and are commonly found in garages.
Hi-Lift Jacks (Farm Jacks): These versatile jacks are designed for off-road vehicles and extreme situations. They can lift vehicles from various points, but require specialized knowledge and caution.

Always consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual to determine the appropriate jack type and lifting points for your specific make and model.

Essential Safety Precautions

Working with car jacks involves inherent risks. Prioritize safety by following these guidelines:

Park on a Level Surface: Ensure your vehicle is parked on a flat, stable surface to prevent rolling or shifting.
Engage the Parking Brake: Firmly engage the parking brake to prevent movement.
Use Wheel Chocks: Place wheel chocks behind the wheels opposite the jack to further secure the vehicle.
Never Work Under a Vehicle Supported Only by a Jack: Always use jack stands for support. A jack can fail, causing the vehicle to collapse.
Wear Safety Glasses and Gloves: Protect your eyes and hands from debris and potential hazards.
Read the Jack’s Manual: Familiarize yourself with the specific operating instructions and weight capacity of your jack.
Avoid Overloading the Jack: Exceeding the jack’s weight limit can lead to failure and serious injury.
Keep Bystanders Clear: Ensure no one is near the vehicle while it is raised.
Regularly Inspect Your Jack: Check for signs of damage, leaks, or wear and tear.
Proper Storage: Store your jack in a dry, safe place to prevent corrosion and damage.

Ignoring these safety precautions can result in serious injury or even death. Always prioritize safety when working with car jacks.

Step-by-Step Guide to Releasing a Scissor Jack

Releasing a scissor jack requires a slow and controlled approach. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Ensure Stability: Double-check that the vehicle is still stable and that the parking brake is engaged and wheel chocks are in place.
Locate the Jack’s Lowering Mechanism: Scissor jacks typically have a screw mechanism with a handle or wrench used for both raising and lowering.
Slowly Turn the Handle/Wrench in the Opposite Direction: Carefully turn the handle or wrench counterclockwise (usually indicated by an arrow or “LOOSEN” marking). This will slowly lower the vehicle.
Monitor the Descent: Keep a close eye on the vehicle as it descends. Ensure it is lowering evenly and that there are no obstructions.
Remove the Jack: Once the tire is back on the ground and the weight of the vehicle is fully supported, carefully remove the scissor jack.
Final Tightening: Before removing the wheel chocks, give the lug nuts a final tightening with a torque wrench to the manufacturer’s specifications.
Remove Wheel Chocks: Now remove the wheel chocks, and you are set to go.

Never release a scissor jack too quickly. A sudden drop can damage your vehicle and compromise safety.

Releasing a Bottle Jack: A Controlled Descent

Bottle jacks, due to their hydraulic nature, require a different release procedure.

Confirm Stability: Ensure the vehicle is stable, the parking brake is engaged, and wheel chocks are in place. Crucially, make sure jack stands are supporting the vehicle’s weight. Do not rely solely on the bottle jack.
Locate the Release Valve: Bottle jacks have a release valve, usually a small screw or knob, that controls the flow of hydraulic fluid.
Slowly Open the Release Valve: Using a screwdriver or the appropriate tool, carefully turn the release valve counterclockwise. The speed at which you turn the valve determines the rate of descent.
Monitor the Descent: Watch the vehicle as it lowers. Ensure it is descending evenly and that the jack stands are not obstructing the process.
Gradually Lower the Vehicle Until it Rests on the Ground: Ensure the tire is on the ground and lug nuts are tightened to manufacturer specifications before you remove the jack stands.
Remove the Jack Stands: Carefully remove the jack stands.
Fully Lower the Jack: Completely open the release valve to fully retract the bottle jack.
Remove the Jack: Remove the bottle jack from under the vehicle.
Final Tightening: After the vehicle is completely on the ground, do a final tightening of the lug nuts with a torque wrench.
Remove Wheel Chocks: Finally, remove the wheel chocks.

Releasing the pressure too quickly can cause the vehicle to drop suddenly. Gradual and controlled release is key.

Releasing a Floor Jack (Trolley Jack): Smooth and Steady

Floor jacks offer greater stability and ease of use, but the release procedure still requires caution.

Verify Stability: Confirm that the parking brake is engaged, wheel chocks are in place, and the jack stands are securely positioned. Again, the vehicle’s weight should be supported by jack stands, not just the floor jack.
Locate the Release Mechanism: Floor jacks typically have a handle that also serves as the release mechanism. Twisting the handle in a specific direction (usually counterclockwise) opens the release valve.
Slowly Twist the Handle: Gradually twist the handle counterclockwise to open the release valve. Control the rate of descent by adjusting the amount you twist the handle.
Observe the Descent: Carefully watch the vehicle as it lowers, ensuring it descends evenly and without any issues.
Lower the Vehicle to Ground: Once the tire is firmly on the ground and lug nuts are tightened to manufacturer specifications, remove the jack stands.
Remove the Jack Stands: Remove the jack stands.
Fully Retract the Jack: Continue twisting the handle until the jack is fully retracted.
Remove the Jack: Remove the floor jack from under the vehicle.
Final Tightening: After the vehicle is completely on the ground, do a final tightening of the lug nuts with a torque wrench.
Remove Wheel Chocks: Remove the wheel chocks.

A floor jack’s wide base provides stability, but a controlled release is still essential to prevent sudden drops.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sometimes, releasing a car jack doesn’t go as planned. Here are some common issues and how to address them:

Jack Won’t Lower: This could be due to a stuck release valve. Try gently tapping the valve with a rubber mallet or penetrating oil to loosen it. Ensure you are turning the release valve in the correct direction.
Vehicle Descends Too Quickly: If the vehicle is dropping too fast, immediately try to close the release valve slightly to slow the descent. Be prepared for a sudden stop. This highlights the importance of having jack stands in place.
Jack is Leaking Fluid: A leaking jack indicates a potential seal failure. Do not attempt to use a leaking jack, as it may fail completely. Have it repaired or replaced.
Jack is Stuck Under the Vehicle: If the jack is stuck, carefully try to maneuver the vehicle slightly to create more clearance. Do not force the jack, as this could cause damage.
The Release Valve Will Not Budge: It is essential to clean it and make sure that no debris is inside, otherwise, the valve might not work.

If you encounter any serious issues or are unsure about the proper procedure, consult a qualified mechanic.

Jack Stand Placement: A Critical Step

We’ve repeatedly emphasized the importance of jack stands. Here’s a closer look at proper placement:

Identify Safe Lifting Points: Consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for designated jack stand locations. These are typically reinforced areas of the frame or pinch welds.
Position the Jack Stands: Place the jack stands firmly on a level surface under the designated lifting points.
Adjust the Height: Adjust the height of the jack stands to the desired level, ensuring they are securely locked in place.
Lower the Vehicle Onto the Jack Stands: Carefully lower the vehicle until its weight is fully supported by the jack stands. The jack should still be in place, but not bearing any load.

Never place jack stands on rusted, damaged, or weakened areas of the frame. Improper placement can lead to vehicle damage or collapse.

Maintaining Your Car Jack for Longevity

Proper maintenance extends the life of your car jack and ensures its reliable operation.

Regular Cleaning: Clean your jack regularly with a clean, dry cloth to remove dirt, grease, and debris.
Lubrication: Lubricate moving parts, such as the screw mechanism of a scissor jack or the pivot points of a floor jack, with appropriate grease or oil.
Hydraulic Fluid Levels: Check the hydraulic fluid level in bottle jacks and floor jacks periodically. Refill as needed with the correct type of hydraulic fluid specified by the manufacturer.
Inspect for Damage: Regularly inspect your jack for signs of damage, such as cracks, leaks, or bent components. Replace damaged parts immediately.
Proper Storage: Store your jack in a dry, safe place to prevent corrosion and damage.

Regular maintenance ensures your car jack is ready when you need it and helps prevent unexpected failures.

Releasing a car jack safely is just as important as using it to lift your vehicle. By following these steps, observing safety precautions, and maintaining your equipment, you can ensure a safe and successful experience every time. Remember, when in doubt, consult a professional mechanic.

What safety precautions should I take before releasing a car jack?

Always ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface, and engage the parking brake firmly. Chock the wheels opposite the wheel you’re working on to prevent accidental rolling. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack. Use jack stands to support the vehicle’s weight once it’s raised to the desired height.

Before you even think about releasing the jack, double-check that the jack stands are securely positioned under the vehicle’s frame or designated jacking points. Make sure they’re at the correct height and can bear the vehicle’s weight. Clear the area of any obstructions and ensure no one is near the vehicle while you lower it.

How do I find the correct jacking points on my vehicle?

The owner’s manual is your best resource for locating the designated jacking points. These are reinforced areas of the vehicle’s frame designed to safely support the weight. Using incorrect jacking points can damage the vehicle’s undercarriage.

Typically, jacking points are located near the front and rear wheels, often indicated by notches or reinforced sections of the frame. If you’re unsure after consulting the manual, a quick online search with your vehicle’s make and model can often provide helpful diagrams or videos.

What type of jack is best for releasing and lowering a car safely?

The type of jack used for lifting initially doesn’t necessarily dictate the safety of releasing and lowering, as long as jack stands are used. Bottle jacks and scissor jacks are common for roadside repairs, but floor jacks are generally preferred for garage or home use due to their stability and ease of use.

Regardless of the jack type, the key is controlled lowering. Hydraulic jacks, like floor jacks or bottle jacks, usually have a release valve that allows for slow and gradual descent. Scissor jacks require careful winding down to prevent sudden drops. Using jack stands is crucial, as you’re essentially transferring the weight to them before fully releasing the jack.

How slowly should I release the jack to lower the car?

Lowering the car slowly is crucial for safety and prevents damage. With a hydraulic jack, slowly turn the release valve, allowing the fluid to gradually flow back into the reservoir. Avoid opening the valve too quickly, as this can cause a sudden and uncontrolled drop.

For scissor jacks, carefully wind the jack downwards in a slow and controlled manner. Keep a close eye on the jack stands as the vehicle lowers, ensuring they remain stable and properly positioned. A slow and steady approach minimizes the risk of any sudden shifts or instability.

What if I encounter resistance when releasing the car jack?

Resistance when releasing the jack could indicate several issues. It might mean the jack is binding, the jack stands are not properly positioned, or there’s something obstructing the vehicle’s path. Immediately stop lowering if you feel undue resistance.

Carefully inspect the jack, jack stands, and surrounding area for any obstructions or misalignments. Ensure the jack stands are securely supporting the vehicle’s weight. If the jack seems to be binding, gently try to reposition it slightly before attempting to lower it again. If the problem persists, consult a professional mechanic.

What should I do after the car is completely lowered?

Once the car is completely lowered and the jack is removed, carefully inspect the area around the lowered tire. Double-check that the wheel is properly seated against the hub and that all lug nuts are tightened to the correct torque specifications using a torque wrench.

Before driving, remove the wheel chocks and perform a short test drive at low speed to ensure the wheel is properly aligned and secure. Listen for any unusual noises or vibrations that might indicate a problem. If you notice anything unusual, have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic.

How do I maintain my car jack for future use?

Proper maintenance is essential for ensuring your car jack functions safely and reliably. After each use, clean the jack of any dirt, debris, or grease. Store it in a dry place to prevent rust and corrosion.

For hydraulic jacks, periodically check the fluid level and add hydraulic jack oil as needed. Inspect the jack for any signs of damage, such as leaks, cracks, or bent components. If you notice any damage, have the jack repaired or replaced before using it again. Regularly lubricating moving parts can also help extend the jack’s lifespan.