Billy Covington If you own a Subaru Forester, you may need to change a tire or do some maintenance work that involves lifting the vehicle. Jacking up a car can be dangerous if not done correctly, so it’s essential to follow the proper steps to ensure your safety and prevent damage to your car. In this article, we’ll provide a comprehensive guide on how to safely lift a Subaru Forester using a jack.
Choosing the Right Jack
Before you start jacking up your Forester, you need to choose the right jack for the job. There are several types of jacks available on the market, including scissor, bottle, and hydraulic jacks. For lifting a Forester, we recommend using a hydraulic jack, which is more stable and can lift heavier loads.
Locating the Jack Points
Once you have the right jack, the next step is to locate the jack points on your Forester. The Forester has four jack points, one at each corner of the car. The jack points are marked with notches in the metal frame and are located just behind the front wheels and just in front of the rear wheels.
Lifting the Car
Once you have located the jack points, you can start lifting your Forester. Follow the steps below to jack up your vehicle safely:
- Make sure the car is in park and the emergency brake is engaged.
- Place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels to prevent the car from rolling.
- Position the jack under the appropriate jack point.
- Turn the jack handle clockwise to lift the car. Make sure the jack is centered and stable before continuing.
- Continue lifting the car until the wheel is off the ground.
Securing the Car
Once the car is lifted, you need to secure it in place to prevent it from falling. Follow the steps below to secure your Forester:
- Place jack stands under each of the remaining jack points.
- Slowly lower the car onto the jack stands.
- Use a wrench to tighten the lug nuts on the wheel that you removed.
Conclusion
Jacking up a Subaru Forester can be a straightforward process if you follow the proper steps and take the necessary precautions. Always use a hydraulic jack, locate the jack points correctly, and secure the car on jack stands before starting any work. With these guidelines, you can ensure your safety and prevent damage to your car.
Key Takeaways
- Use a hydraulic jack to lift a Subaru Forester.
- Locate the jack points behind the front and rear wheels.
- Secure the car on jack stands before starting any work.
FAQ
Q: How high should I lift my Forester?
A: You only need to lift your Forester enough to remove the wheel or perform the necessary maintenance work.
Q: Can I use a scissor jack to lift my Forester?
A: We don’t recommend using a scissor jack to lift a Forester because they are less stable and can’t lift as much weight as hydraulic jacks.
Q: What if I can’t locate the jack points on my Forester?
A: Consult your owner’s manual or contact a Subaru dealership or mechanic for assistance.
