How to Jack Up Car for Oil Change

Changing your car’s oil at home can feel like a rite of passage. It’s that sweet spot between saving money and getting your hands just dirty enough to feel like a mechanic. But before you even think about pulling the oil plug, there’s one critical move you need to get right: how to jack up car for oil change. Trust me, if you mess this part up, you’ll be in for a world of trouble—and possibly danger.

I still remember the first time I tried to lift my old Civic to do a DIY oil change. I didn’t know what I was doing. I used the wrong jack point and nearly bent the frame. After that, I promised myself I’d never skip the basics again. If you’re reading this, chances are you’re looking to avoid that same mistake—and I’ve got your back.

Let’s walk through the entire process with clear, simple instructions. I’ll also share some personal stories and pro tips along the way to make your first oil change (or your tenth) go smooth. By the time you finish this guide, you’ll feel confident jacking up your car like a seasoned weekend warrior.

Why Jacking Up Your Car Correctly Matters More Than You Think

When I first got into DIY car maintenance, I underestimated how technical this part could be. I figured the jack could go anywhere under the car. But I quickly learned every vehicle has specific jack points, usually reinforced spots designed to bear the weight. Miss them, and you could damage the undercarriage or worse, hurt yourself.

Here’s why this matters:

• Safety. A solid setup protects you while you’re under the car.

• Accuracy. Proper lift angles help oil drain completely.

• Vehicle integrity. No crushed panels or twisted frames.

Learning how to jack up car for oil change safely means you get the job done faster, cleaner, and without injuries. It’s a small step with a huge payoff.

Tools You’ll Need: No Fancy Garage Required

Let’s talk tools. Don’t worry, you don’t need a professional setup. Just a few reliable pieces of gear and some patience. If you’re working in your driveway or garage, here’s your essential checklist:

Pro Tip: Never rely on the jack alone. Always place the jack stands under the car before you crawl underneath. It’s your safety net.

When I was younger, I used a scissor jack that came with my car. Big mistake. It was wobbly and slow. Once I invested in a solid floor jack and stands, the whole process became ten times easier and safer. And guess what? I’ve been using the same jack for over five years now. Worth every penny.

Step-by-Step: How to Jack Up Car for Oil Change Safely and Efficiently

Okay, let’s get into the actual process. This is where you put everything you’ve learned to good use. Follow these steps exactly, and you’ll master how to jack up car for oil change like a pro.

1. Park on a Level Surface
Always start by parking your car on a flat, paved surface. This keeps everything stable. Put the car in park (or gear if it’s a manual), and set the emergency brake.

2. Use Wheel Chocks
Place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels (if jacking the front) or in front of the front wheels (if jacking the rear). This stops the car from rolling. Never skip this step—it’s a small action that could save your life.

3. Locate the Jack Points
Check your owner’s manual for the correct jack points. Most cars have reinforced areas behind the front wheels and just ahead of the rear wheels. Avoid placing the jack on the oil pan or under the engine—those spots are not designed to hold weight.

4. Position the Jack
Slide the hydraulic jack under the jack point. Make sure it’s centered and steady. Then slowly pump the handle to lift the car. Don’t rush it. Watch how the car rises and listen for any odd creaks.

5. Insert the Jack Stands
Once the car is high enough to give you room underneath, slide the jack stands under the side frame rails or recommended support points. Slowly lower the jack until the car is fully resting on the stands. Double-check the stability by giving the car a gentle nudge. It should not move.

6. Double-Check Everything
Before crawling under the car, step back and inspect the setup. Check that:

• Both stands are locked and firm

• The jack has been removed or lowered fully

• The car is stable and chocked

Now you’re ready for the oil change.

Mistakes to Avoid: Learn From My Slip-Ups

Let me be real—I’ve messed this up before. And I learned the hard way. One time, I rushed the process, didn’t use chocks, and my car actually rolled a few inches while on the jack. It didn’t fall, but it was enough to scare me. Since then, I’ve become borderline obsessive about doing it right.

Here are some rookie mistakes to avoid:

• Using the wrong jack point. This can bend your car’s frame or cause it to slip.

• Skipping jack stands. Even if you’re “just going under for a second,” never rely on the jack alone.

• Lifting on an incline. Even a slight slope increases the risk of a fall.

• Working without gloves. Oil is messy and can irritate your skin.

If you take anything from this guide, let it be this: take your time. Rushing is the enemy of safety. Follow the steps, and you’ll not only learn how to jack up car for oil change properly—you’ll do it confidently.

Pro Tips for a Smooth and Stress-Free Oil Change

Once your car is safely jacked up and resting on solid jack stands, you’re good to go. But before you get under there with your wrench and drain pan, let me share a few golden nuggets I’ve picked up over the years. These might seem small, but they make a big difference when it comes to staying safe and efficient while handling the oil change.

1. Wear old clothes – Trust me, oil will get on you. It always finds a way.
2. Use a large drain pan – Bigger than you think you need. Oil can shoot out at strange angles.
3. Let the engine cool for 15–30 minutes – You want the oil warm (flows better), not hot (burns skin).
4. Use a headlamp or work light – Under a car is darker than you’d expect, especially if you’re working in the evening.
5. Keep everything nearby – Tools, funnel, filter, and rags. Crawling out every two minutes is no fun.

When you understand how to jack up car for oil change, you’re halfway to becoming your own trusted mechanic. Once you get your rhythm, the oil change becomes an empowering, money-saving ritual that you can knock out in under 45 minutes.

Safety Comes First: A Quick Checklist

Here’s a final safety checklist to go over before starting the oil change. It’s especially helpful if you’re feeling nervous or doing this for the first time.

• Car parked on level ground
• Emergency brake engaged
• Wheel chocks placed securely
• Jack aligned with the correct jack point
• Jack stands positioned and locked
• Car gently nudged to ensure it’s steady
• You’re using gloves and safety gear
• Tools, oil, and filter all within arm’s reach

If you’ve checked every box above, you’ve nailed the prep. And now you know exactly how to jack up car for oil change the right way.

FAQs: Answering the Questions Everyone Asks

1. Can I use the jack that comes with the car?
Technically, yes—but I don’t recommend it for oil changes. Those jacks are made for emergencies, like changing a tire on the roadside. They’re unstable and not designed for long jobs or going under the car. Use a proper hydraulic floor jack and jack stands for safety.

2. How high should I jack up the car for an oil change?
You only need enough clearance to comfortably reach and remove the oil drain plug and filter. Typically, lifting the car about 6 to 8 inches off the ground at the jack point is enough. Don’t go higher than needed—just enough space to work safely.

3. Can I jack up only one side of the car?
You can, but it’s not ideal for an oil change. Oil needs to drain completely, and the angle can affect that. Jacking up the front of the car (both sides evenly) is the best approach. Use two jack stands to ensure it’s stable.

4. What happens if I jack up the wrong part of the car?
You risk bending the frame, damaging components, or worse, causing the car to slip and fall. Always check your owner’s manual to locate the jack points. They’re usually reinforced steel spots near the wheels.

5. Should I leave the jack in place while using jack stands?
It’s optional but recommended. After placing jack stands under the car and lowering the jack, you can leave the jack nearby with slight tension (but not bearing weight). Think of it as a backup, just in case.

6. How long does it take to jack up the car and change the oil?
If you’re doing it for the first time, set aside about an hour. With experience, the process can take around 30–40 minutes. The more organized you are, the faster and smoother it’ll go.

7. Is it okay to work alone when jacking up a car?
Yes, but always let someone know what you’re doing, especially if you’re going under the car. Having someone nearby—even if they’re just in the house—is a smart move in case you need help.

8. Can I use ramps instead of a jack and jack stands?
Absolutely. Ramps are a safe and beginner-friendly alternative. Just make sure they’re placed on level ground and that you double-check the car’s stability before crawling under.

Recap: The Right Way to Jack Up Your Car

If you’re serious about learning how to jack up car for oil change, remember that this one step sets the tone for the entire job. It’s not just about lifting the vehicle—it’s about safety, confidence, and doing it the right way.

Let’s summarize the key takeaways:

• Always park on a level surface and use wheel chocks

• Use a solid hydraulic floor jack—not the car’s emergency one

• Know your jack points and double-check them

• Place and lock jack stands before working underneath

• Safety checks aren’t optional—they’re essential

• Have all your tools ready so you’re not scrambling mid-job

This isn’t just about saving money. It’s about building confidence with your car. The first time you change your own oil—and jack the car up right—it feels amazing. You’ll probably walk around the house with a bit of a swagger and tell everyone about it, just like I did.

Final Thoughts: You’ve Got This

Doing your own oil change is empowering. But more importantly, knowing how to jack up car for oil change safely is what separates the pros from the panicked. It’s the foundation of a successful DIY job, and now, you’ve got the knowledge.

If you ever feel unsure, go back to the steps. Read the manual. Watch a video or two. With each oil change, you’ll get faster, smarter, and more confident. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s safety, learning, and getting to know your vehicle inside out.

And who knows? This might be the start of something bigger. Today it’s oil. Tomorrow it might be brakes, belts, or even full tune-ups. But for now, get under that car (safely) and take pride in doing it yourself.