Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle: Jacking

2001 Chevrolet Cavalier LS, 2.4 TSECTION Jacking
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Oldsmobile Aurora. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

When lifting a vehicle with a vehicle jack or a floor jack, block the wheels at the opposite end from which you are lifting. Use jack stands to provide additional support.

Fig 1: Positioning Vehicle/Floor Jack Under Front Suspension Crossmember
G02708619Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Position the floor jack pad under the front frame rail reinforcements.

Fig 2: Positioning Floor Jack Pad Under Rear Crossmember
G02708620Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Important 

The floor jack pad must not contact the rocker panel or floor pan.

Position the floor jack pad under the rear crossmember.

Under the Front and Rear Control Arms 

Jacking on the control arm is not recommended.

RENDER: 1.0x

NO RELATED

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.