2016 Mazda CX-5 Jack Points: The Safe Lifting Guide Every Owner Should Know
Your 2016 Mazda CX-5 is a reliable and stylish SUV, perfect for daily commutes and weekend adventures. Whether you’re changing a tire, performing routine maintenance, or undertaking more involved repairs, knowing the correct jack points is crucial for safety and preventing damage to your vehicle. Improper lifting can lead to serious injury or costly repairs. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the 2016 Mazda CX-5 jack points and safe lifting practices, ensuring you can confidently and securely lift your vehicle.
Understanding the Importance of Correct Jacking
Jacking up your vehicle is a fundamental skill for any car owner. However, it’s a task that demands precision and adherence to safety guidelines. Using the wrong jack points can:
- Damage the vehicle’s frame, undercarriage, or suspension components.
- Cause the vehicle to slip off the jack, resulting in serious injury.
- Void your vehicle’s warranty if damage is caused by improper lifting.
This guide will help you avoid these pitfalls by providing clear instructions and highlighting the correct jack points for your 2016 Mazda CX-5.
Identifying the Correct Jack Points on Your 2016 Mazda CX-5
Mazda engineers have specifically designed reinforced areas on your CX-5 to safely accommodate a jack. These points are strategically located to distribute the vehicle’s weight effectively.
Understanding the Jacking Options:
- Factory Jack: The factory-supplied jack (usually located in the spare tire well or under the cargo floor) is designed for emergency tire changes. While convenient, it’s typically not the best option for more involved maintenance.
- Floor Jack: A floor jack is a more robust and versatile option, providing greater stability and lifting capacity. This guide will primarily focus on using a floor jack.
Locating the Jack Points:
Here’s a breakdown of the primary jack points for your 2016 Mazda CX-5:
Front Jack Points:
- Central Front Jack Point: Look for a reinforced metal crossmember located behind the front bumper, beneath the engine. This is often the ideal central point for lifting the front of the vehicle.
- Side Front Jack Points: Situated behind the front wheels, you’ll find reinforced pinch welds. These are typically identified by small, raised tabs or notches. These are designed to interface with the groove of a floor jack or the head of a factory jack.
Rear Jack Points:
- Central Rear Jack Point: Similar to the front, the rear of the CX-5 has a central reinforced metal crossmember, generally located behind the rear bumper, beneath the cargo area.
- Side Rear Jack Points: Like the front, the rear features reinforced pinch welds located behind the rear wheels.
Important Considerations:
- Consult Your Owner’s Manual: Always refer to your 2016 Mazda CX-5 owner’s manual for the most accurate and specific jack point locations. The manual will also include diagrams and illustrations.
- Inspect the Jack Points: Before lifting, inspect the jack points for any signs of damage, rust, or corrosion. Do not attempt to jack up the vehicle if the jack points are compromised.
- Clean the Jack Points: Ensure the jack points are free of dirt, debris, and any slippery substances that could cause the jack to slip.
Step-by-Step Guide to Safe Lifting with a Floor Jack
Follow these steps to safely lift your 2016 Mazda CX-5 using a floor jack:
- Park on a Level Surface: Ensure the vehicle is parked on a firm, level surface. Engage the parking brake firmly.
- Chock the Wheels: Place wheel chocks behind the wheels that will remain on the ground. This prevents the vehicle from rolling.
- Locate the Correct Jack Point: Identify the appropriate jack point (front, rear, or side) according to your needs and the information above.
- Position the Jack: Carefully position the floor jack beneath the chosen jack point. Ensure the jack head makes secure contact with the reinforced area. If using a floor jack, consider using a jack pad adapter to protect the vehicle’s pinch weld.
- Raise the Vehicle: Slowly and steadily raise the jack, monitoring the vehicle’s stability. Keep an eye on the jack and the vehicle to ensure everything remains aligned.
- Secure with Jack Stands: NEVER work under a vehicle supported only by a jack. Once the vehicle is lifted to the desired height, carefully place jack stands under the designated jack stand points. These are usually located near the jack points and are often reinforced areas of the frame.
- Lower the Vehicle onto Jack Stands: Slowly lower the vehicle onto the jack stands until the vehicle is securely supported.
- Test the Stability: Gently rock the vehicle to ensure it is stable on the jack stands.
- Perform Your Work: You can now safely perform your maintenance or repairs.
- Lowering the Vehicle: After finishing, raise the vehicle slightly with the jack, remove the jack stands, and slowly lower the vehicle back to the ground. Remove the jack and wheel chocks.
Safety Precautions: Your Top Priorities
- Always Use Jack Stands: This is the most critical safety precaution. Never rely solely on a jack to support the vehicle.
- Never Work Under a Vehicle That Is Unstable: If the vehicle appears to be unstable, lower it immediately and reassess the situation.
- Wear Appropriate Safety Gear: Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from potential hazards.
- Work in a Well-Lit Area: Ensure you have adequate lighting to see what you are doing.
- Double-Check Everything: Before starting any work, double-check the jack points, jack stands, and your tools.
- If in Doubt, Consult a Professional: If you are unsure about any aspect of the jacking process, consult a qualified mechanic.
Conclusion: Safe Lifting for a Smooth Ride
By following these guidelines, you can safely and confidently lift your 2016 Mazda CX-5 for routine maintenance or repairs. Remember to prioritize safety, use the correct jack points, and always use jack stands. Proper lifting techniques will not only protect you from injury but also preserve the integrity of your vehicle, ensuring many more years of enjoyable driving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Where can I find the specific jack points for my 2016 Mazda CX-5?
The most reliable source for specific jack point locations is your 2016 Mazda CX-5 owner’s manual. It will contain diagrams and detailed instructions. You can also refer to the information provided in this article.
2. Can I use the factory jack for all types of maintenance?
The factory jack is primarily designed for emergency tire changes. For more involved maintenance, a floor jack and jack stands are recommended for greater stability and safety.
3. What should I do if I damage a jack point?
If you damage a jack point, it’s best to consult a qualified mechanic. They can assess the damage and advise on the best course of action, which may include repair or replacement of the affected component. Do not continue to use a damaged jack point.
4. What is a jack pad adapter and why should I use one?
A jack pad adapter is a rubber or polyurethane pad that fits between the jack head and the vehicle’s jack point (specifically, the pinch weld). It protects the pinch weld from damage and provides a more secure grip, reducing the risk of slipping. It’s highly recommended to use a jack pad adapter when using a floor jack.
5. Can I lift the whole vehicle at once?
Generally, you can’t lift the entire vehicle at once using the factory jack. You can use a floor jack on the central front or rear jack points, but you will still need jack stands to secure the vehicle before working underneath it. Always consult your owner’s manual for the specific recommendations and limitations.
