Maintenance & repair
How to safely lift a vehicle and perform undercarriage inspections and repairs.
A practical, step by step guide to safely lifting a vehicle, choosing jacks, safety stands, and performing undercarriage inspections and repairs with confidence and accountability.
Published by
Brian Hughes
June 03, 2026 - 3 min Read
Before lifting a vehicle, establish a clear work area, gather the right tools, and plan the sequence carefully. Start with a level, hard surface free of debris, ensuring the vehicle is in park or in gear with the parking brake engaged. Use wheel chocks on all wheels that remain on the ground to prevent any movement. Check the owner’s manual for the recommended lifting points and weight limits, which help avoid puncturing fuel lines or damaging suspension components. Have a reliable helper, lighting, and a fire extinguisher within reach. Finally, verify that the surface can support the combined weight of vehicle, jack, and stands.
Select a dependable jack rated for the vehicle’s weight, and place it under a designated lifting point. Lift slowly and keep the vehicle centered to prevent slippage. Once partway raised, slide sturdy jack stands beneath the chassis at the manufacturer’s indicated support points. Lower the vehicle onto the stands with controlled, even pressure, ensuring contact is stable and the stands are on solid, level ground. Never rely on the jack alone to hold the car. Remove the jack if you can safely position the stands first, then gently release the jack until the car rests firmly on the stands.
Choose safe lifting equipment and follow precise procedures every time.
A thorough undercarriage inspection begins with a visual sweep for obvious issues, shadows of leaks, and abnormal wear. Look for oil seepage around seals, coolant traces along hoses, and rust that may compromise structural integrity. Check exhaust mounts, hangers, and heat shields for looseness or corrosion. Inspect suspension components such as control arms, tie rods, and bushings for cracking or deformation. Examine brake lines and fittings for signs of abrasion or leakage. Don’t forget to assess the fuel system’s lines and connections, especially near heat sources. Document any concerns with photos, noting the vehicle’s mileage and recent repair history for future reference.
After the initial visual assessment, use a flashlight to scrutinize hard-to-see areas, paying attention to crevices, joints, and mounting points. Gently wiggle suspect components to detect movement beyond normal tolerances, which can indicate wear or loose fasteners. For hoses and belts, check for cracks, fraying, or soft spots that signal aging. Listen for unusual noises while applying light force to moving parts, as squeaks, rattles, or clunks can reveal misalignment or lubrication failures. When you discover potential problems, record the exact location, the observed condition, and whether further diagnosis or replacement is needed, planning to return with the right parts.
Learn to recognize common undercarriage wear and fault indicators.
If air is part of your lifting system, inspect hoses and fittings for cracks, leaks, and proper pressure. For hydraulic jacks, ensure the ram moves smoothly without binding, and that the release valve functions correctly. Regularly test the jack’s load rating against the vehicle’s weight, accounting for tools and stands. When using ramps, place them on a solid surface and secure them with chocks to prevent rolling. Always ensure that the vehicle remains stable before proceeding to work underneath. Keep a constant line of communication with your helper to coordinate movement and address shifting loads promptly.
Wearing appropriate PPE improves safety and reduces injury risk. Use impact-rated gloves to handle metal edges, goggles to protect eyes from dust or debris, and a sturdy pair of boots with good grip. A long-sleeve shirt helps shield skin from hot components and sharp edges. If you expect a potential spark or chemical exposure, consider a face shield and chemical-resistant apron. Establish a no-distractions rule for anyone nearby to avoid accidental jostling or interference. Finally, have a first-aid kit and emergency contact information readily available in case of minor injuries or unexpected hazards during the inspection.
Practice methodical lowering and post-inspection steps for ongoing safety.
With the vehicle supported, begin checking the steering and suspension joints for play. A gentle push on the wheel should produce minimal movement when the car is off the ground; excessive movement may indicate worn tie rods or ball joints. Inspect the CV joints and boots for cracks or grease leakage, which could lead to driveline issues. Look for misaligned wheels or irregular tire wear patterns that signal steering geometry concerns. Study the condition of bushings, control arms, and springs for visible damage, bending, or cracking. When in doubt, consult a professional technician with a detailed assessment and notes from your inspection.
Continue with the brake system and drivetrain inspections. Examine calipers, rotors, and pads for thickness and signs of uneven wear. Check brake lines for pinhole leaks or corrosion along their length, particularly near joints and connectors. Inspect the transmission or driveline components accessible from beneath the vehicle for leaks, unusual seepage, or loose mounts. Verify exhaust hangers and heat shields remain secure, as loose parts can cause loud noises or dangerous vibrations. Finally, confirm that all protective shields and underbody panels are intact and properly fastened before lowering the car.
Documentation and ongoing maintenance practices for safe operation.
When you’re ready to retract the inspection, lift each stand slowly to ensure the area remains stable, then remove the stands in reverse order. Lower the vehicle carefully onto the ground, keeping a watchful eye for any shifting positions or hidden leaks that might have changed during the inspection. Recheck the original lift points after lowering, ensuring nothing has bent or shifted. Clear away tools and waste, and wipe down any oily or dirty surfaces to reduce slip hazards. Finally, perform a quick road test or at least a short drive in a controlled environment to confirm that there are no unusual sounds or handling changes.
After the test drive, re-enter the undercarriage in a controlled manner if you plan to carry out repairs. Replace any damaged components with OEM or high-quality aftermarket parts that match the manufacturer’s specifications. Tighten bolts to the correct torque values using a calibrated torque wrench, following the exact sequence recommended by the vehicle’s service manual. Reinspect for any signs of leftover leaks or abnormal movement after tightening. Document the work performed, the parts used, and the torque values for future maintenance and potential warranty coverage.
Maintain a detailed maintenance log that includes dates, mileage, and observed conditions from each inspection. This record helps track wear trends and plan preventive repairs before failures occur. Include photos, part numbers, and the service technician’s notes to provide a clear history for future diagnostics. Schedule routine inspections at intervals based on driving conditions and vehicle usage, such as daily commuting versus heavy off-road use. A proactive approach reduces the likelihood of unexpected breakdowns and can extend the life of critical components. Share the log with any shop or technician who services the vehicle to maintain continuity of care.
Finally, cultivate a safe mindset that prioritizes prevention over urgency. Regularly review the lifting points and safety procedures so they remain fresh in your memory. Rotate responsibilities among trained helpers to avoid fatigue or complacency. Invest in higher-quality stands and jack systems that offer stability under dynamic loads. When performing inspections, never rush through steps or skip warnings, because one overlooked detail can lead to a costly repair or a dangerous situation. By combining disciplined practices with careful observation, you can keep your vehicle safe and road-ready for miles to come.
