At a Glance
- You’ll need to jack up the car at the jack point closest to the tire you’re changing.
- Once the car is lifted slightly, place the jack stands under the frame of the vehicle, close to the jack point.
- Use the jack to raise the car until the tire is firmly on the ground.
Are you ready to tackle your own car maintenance? Knowing how to jack up your 2013 Ford Fusion is a valuable skill that can save you time and money. Whether you need to change a tire, inspect the undercarriage, or perform other repairs, this guide will walk you through the process step-by-step. We’ll cover everything from choosing the right jack to ensuring your safety while working under your vehicle.
Gather Your Tools and Materials
Before you begin, make sure you have the following tools and materials:
- A hydraulic floor jack: This is the most common type of jack used for cars. It’s easy to use and can lift your vehicle high enough for most repairs.
- Jack stands: These are essential for safety. They provide a stable platform to support your car while it’s jacked up.
- Lug wrench: This is used to loosen and tighten the lug nuts on your wheels.
- Chocks: Place these behind the rear wheels to prevent the car from rolling while it’s jacked up.
- Work gloves: Protect your hands from dirt and grime.
- A flat, level surface: Avoid jacking up your car on uneven ground.
Locate the Jack Points
Your 2013 Ford Fusion has designated jack points located on the frame of the vehicle. These are the only safe places to lift your car. You can find the jack points in your owner’s manual or by looking at the underside of your car. They’re typically marked with a small symbol or indentation.
Choosing the Right Jack Point
The jack point you choose will depend on what you’re working on. For example:
- Changing a tire: You’ll need to jack up the car at the jack point closest to the tire you’re changing.
- Inspecting the undercarriage: You may need to jack up the car at multiple points to get a good view of everything.
Prepare Your Vehicle for Jacking
1. Park on a flat, level surface: Ensure your car is on a solid, flat surface. Avoid jacking up your car on uneven ground or soft surfaces like gravel.
2. Engage the parking brake: This will prevent your car from rolling while it’s jacked up.
3. Place chocks behind the rear wheels: This will provide additional security and prevent the car from moving forward or backward.
4. Turn off the engine and remove the key: This is a safety precaution.
Jacking Up Your 2013 Ford Fusion
1. Locate the jack point: Identify the jack point closest to the tire you need to work on.
2. Position the jack: Place the jack directly under the jack point. Ensure the jack is firmly positioned and doesn’t move when you start lifting.
3. Start lifting: Slowly pump the jack handle to lift the car. Watch the car closely and stop lifting as soon as the tire is off the ground.
4. Place jack stands: Once the car is lifted slightly, place the jack stands under the frame of the vehicle, close to the jack point. They should be positioned in a way that supports the car securely.
5. Lower the jack: Carefully lower the jack until the car is resting on the jack stands. Ensure the car is stable before proceeding with any work.
Removing and Replacing the Tire
1. Loosen the lug nuts: Use the lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts on the tire you’re removing. Don’t remove them completely yet.
2. Lower the car slightly: Lower the jack enough to take the weight off the tire.
3. Remove the lug nuts: Now you can completely remove the lug nuts and take off the tire.
4. Install the new tire: Carefully position the new tire onto the wheel hub.
5. Tighten the lug nuts: Hand-tighten the lug nuts before using the lug wrench to fully tighten them.
6. Raise the car: Use the jack to raise the car until the tire is firmly on the ground.
7. Remove the jack stands: Carefully remove the jack stands.
8. Lower the car: Lower the car completely using the jack.
Final Touches and Safety Precautions
1. Remove the chocks: Once the car is fully on the ground, remove the chocks.
2. Double-check the lug nuts: Make sure all the lug nuts are securely tightened.
3. Lower the jack: Lower the jack to the ground and store it safely.
Time to Shine: Post-Jacking Up Maintenance
- Check the tire pressure: After changing a tire, it’s essential to check the tire pressure. You can find the recommended pressure in your owner’s manual or on the tire sidewall.
- Inspect the tire: Look for any damage or wear on the tire. If you notice any problems, replace the tire immediately.
Beyond the Basics: Safe Handling and Storage
- Storage: Keep your jack and jack stands in a safe and accessible place.
- Regular Inspection: Regularly check your jack and jack stands for any damage or wear. If you find any issues, replace them immediately.
Your 2013 Ford Fusion: An Enduring Legacy
The 2013 Ford Fusion is a reliable and stylish vehicle. By learning how to jack it up safely and properly, you can extend its lifespan and ensure your own safety while performing maintenance.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: How often should I check the jack and jack stands?
A: It’s recommended to inspect your jack and jack stands every six months or before every use.
Q: What if I don’t have a hydraulic jack?
A: You can use a scissor jack, but they are more difficult to use and may not provide enough lift for some repairs.
Q: What if I can’t find the jack points on my car?
A: Consult your owner’s manual or contact a Ford dealership for assistance.
Q: Can I use a jack to lift my car on a slope?
A: No, never jack up your car on a slope. It’s dangerous and could lead to the car rolling.
Q: Is it safe to work under a car that’s only supported by the jack?
A: Never work under a car that’s only supported by the jack. Always use jack stands for safety.