How to Jack Up Subaru Forester: The Ultimate Guide for Safe and Efficient Lifting

The Subaru Forester, a renowned compact SUV known for its ruggedness and versatility, might require a lift for various reasons. Whether you’re changing a flat tire, performing maintenance, or simply need to access the undercarriage, knowing how to jack up your Subaru Forester safely and efficiently is crucial. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, equipping you with the knowledge and confidence to tackle any situation.

Essential Tools for the Job

Before we delve into the jacking procedure, let’s gather the essential tools you’ll need:

• Subaru Forester Owner’s Manual: Your owner’s manual is your ultimate guide for specific information regarding your vehicle, including jacking points and safety precautions.
• Jack and Jack Stand: Ensure your jack is rated for the weight of your Subaru Forester and is in good working order. Jack stands provide additional stability and safety once the vehicle is lifted.
• Lug Wrench: A sturdy lug wrench is essential for loosening and tightening the lug nuts.
• Chocks: Place chocks behind the rear wheels to prevent the vehicle from rolling while jacked up.
• Work Gloves: Gloves protect your hands from dirt and potential scrapes.

Choosing the Right Jacking Points

The Subaru Forester has designated jacking points designed for safe and effective lifting. These points are typically marked in the owner’s manual and are located on the vehicle’s frame.

Here are the common jacking points on a Subaru Forester:

• Front Jacking Points: Located on the side of the vehicle, near the front wheels, there will be a raised metal plate or a designated jacking point marked with a symbol.
• Rear Jacking Points: Similar to the front, the rear jacking points are situated on the side of the vehicle, near the rear wheels.
• Center Jacking Point: Some Subaru Forester models have a center jacking point located under the vehicle, usually near the transmission.

Important Note: Always refer to your owner’s manual for the exact location and type of jacking points on your specific Subaru Forester model.

Preparing for the Lift: Safety First

Safety should always be your top priority when working under a raised vehicle. Follow these steps to ensure a safe environment:

1. Park on a Level Surface: Choose a flat, level surface to prevent the vehicle from rolling during the jacking process.
2. Engage the Parking Brake: Apply the parking brake firmly to immobilize the vehicle.
3. Chock the Wheels: Place chocks behind the rear wheels to prevent the vehicle from rolling backward.
4. Release the Emergency Brake: If your vehicle has an electronic parking brake, release it before jacking up.

The Step-by-Step Guide to Jacking Up Your Subaru Forester

Now that you have gathered the necessary tools and ensured safety, let’s proceed with the jacking process:

1. Locate the Jacking Point: Consult your owner’s manual and identify the appropriate jacking point for the task at hand.
2. Position the Jack: Place the jack securely under the designated jacking point, ensuring it is properly aligned and stable.
3. Begin Lifting: Slowly and steadily crank the jack to raise the vehicle. Avoid sudden movements.
4. Use Jack Stands: Once the vehicle is lifted slightly, position the jack stands under the frame, ensuring they are firmly in place and supporting the vehicle’s weight.
5. Lower the Jack: Carefully lower the jack, ensuring the vehicle rests securely on the jack stands.
6. Remove the Jack: Once the vehicle is safely supported by the jack stands, remove the jack.

Performing Your Task

With the vehicle securely lifted and supported, you can now proceed with the task at hand, whether it’s changing a tire, performing maintenance, or accessing the undercarriage.

Remember:

• Never work under a vehicle that is only supported by the jack. Always use jack stands for additional safety.
• Be cautious when working under the vehicle. Avoid any unnecessary movement that could cause the vehicle to shift or fall.
• Double-check the stability of the jack stands before proceeding.

Lowering the Vehicle Safely

Once you have completed your task, follow these steps to lower the vehicle safely:

1. Raise the Jack: Carefully raise the jack to lift the vehicle slightly off the jack stands.
2. Lower the Vehicle: Slowly and steadily lower the jack, allowing the vehicle to rest on its tires.
3. Remove the Jack Stands: Once the vehicle is back on the ground, remove the jack stands.
4. Lower the Jack: Fully lower the jack and store it safely.

A Final Word: Beyond the Lift

Understanding how to jack up your Subaru Forester is a valuable skill for any car owner. It empowers you to handle unexpected situations like flat tires and enables you to perform basic maintenance tasks. Remember, safety should always be your top priority. By following these steps and utilizing the appropriate tools, you can confidently lift your Subaru Forester for any task with peace of mind.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: How often should I check my jack and jack stands?

A: It’s a good practice to inspect your jack and jack stands before each use, ensuring they are in good working order and free from any damage or rust.

Q: What if I don’t have access to jack stands?

A: While jack stands are highly recommended for safety, if you don’t have them, you can use a sturdy piece of wood or a block to support the vehicle. However, this is not ideal and should only be used as a temporary solution.

Q: Can I use my jack to lift the vehicle for a longer period?

A: No, jacks are designed for short-term lifting. Using a jack to support the vehicle for extended periods can damage the jack and compromise safety. Always use jack stands for long-term support.

Q: What if my Subaru Forester has a different jacking point configuration?

A: Always refer to your owner’s manual for specific information regarding your vehicle’s jacking points. The manual will provide detailed instructions and diagrams for your Subaru Forester model.