Tip #2 - Using a Jack

Please put your emergency brake on.

There are two types of jacks - hydraulic and scissor. With the hydraulic, you're going to insert a handle then simply lift and lower it until the tire is slightly off the ground. To lower the vehicle, slowly turn the handle to the left and wait until the tire is completely on the ground. Easy. Scissor jacks are a tad more tedious to use, but effective. It's a good idea to use jack stands in conjunction with them. After inserting the handle, you need to crank it (circular motion) until the tire is slightly off the ground. To lower the vehicle, slowly turn the handle in the opposite direction until the tire is completely on the ground.

I think a common question for folks is, "where do I place the jack?" or, "where do I put this thing?" And it's a fair question - the last thing you want is a bent frame on top of a busted tire. You can either refer to your owner's manual (you should have it in your glove box) or take the ole fashioned route - get down on your knees...and pray. J/K, look underneath the vehicle with a flashlight and find a solid spot, such as the frame rails. If your vehicle is a newer model, it may have a special flat spot specifically for jack placement. Otherwise, it's common to use the frame rails, front wheel suspension or rear-wheel axle (Auto Repair for Dummies 2nd Edition). Use the frame, not the body (think plastic vs metal). Feel free to refer to this YouTube video. The man explains jack placement and the difference between hydraulic and scissor.

Or, ya know, you can call us! Think of it as an, "in-person demonstration." (;