How to Jack Up a Mazda CX-5: The Only Guide You’ll Need
Owning a Mazda CX-5, a popular compact SUV, means you’ll inevitably need to perform some basic maintenance or repairs. Whether you’re changing a tire, rotating your wheels, or working on your brakes, knowing how to safely and correctly jack up your CX-5 is crucial. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, ensuring you have the knowledge and confidence to get the job done right. We’ll cover everything from safety precautions to the correct jacking points, making sure you can handle this important task with ease.
1. Safety First: Preparing to Jack Up Your Mazda CX-5
Before you even think about reaching for a jack, safety must be your top priority. Failure to follow these precautions can lead to serious injury or vehicle damage.
- Park on a Level Surface: Choose a stable, level surface like a driveway or paved area. Avoid working on inclines or uneven ground.
- Engage the Parking Brake: Firmly apply the parking brake. This is critical to prevent the vehicle from rolling.
- Chock the Wheels: Place wheel chocks behind the wheels opposite the wheel you are lifting. For example, if you’re lifting the front left wheel, chock the rear right wheel. This adds an extra layer of security.
- Gather Your Equipment: Ensure you have the following readily available:
- A reliable jack (preferably a floor jack).
- Jack stands (absolutely essential for safety).
- Wheel chocks.
- Gloves (optional, but recommended).
- Owner’s manual (for specific jacking point locations).
- Wear Safety Glasses: Protect your eyes from any debris that might fall.
- Consider the Weather: Avoid jacking up your CX-5 in windy or unstable weather conditions.
2. Locating the Correct Jacking Points on Your CX-5
Using the correct jacking points is vital to avoid damaging your vehicle’s frame or undercarriage. Always consult your owner’s manual for the precise locations specific to your model year. However, generally, Mazda CX-5s have the following jacking point locations:
- For the Front: Look for reinforced areas on the frame just behind the front wheels. These are often indicated by raised ribs or a specific shape designed to accommodate a jack.
- For the Rear: Similar reinforced areas are found behind the rear wheels, along the frame. Again, consult your manual for precise placement.
- Important Note: Never jack up the vehicle on the body panels, suspension components, or any other areas not specifically designated as jacking points. Doing so can cause serious damage.
3. The Step-by-Step Jacking Procedure
Follow these steps carefully to safely lift your Mazda CX-5:
- Position the Jack: Place the jack under the designated jacking point. Ensure the jack head is properly seated and centered on the reinforced area.
- Begin Lifting: Slowly and steadily raise the jack until the tire you’re working on is completely off the ground or at the desired height for your task. Avoid jerky movements.
- Place the Jack Stand: This is the most critical step for safety. Locate a suitable jack stand placement near the jacking point. Consult your owner’s manual for the correct location. Lower the vehicle onto the jack stand, ensuring the jack stand is securely supporting the vehicle’s weight.
- Lower the Vehicle (if using a jack stand): Slowly lower the jack until the vehicle rests firmly on the jack stand. Ensure the jack stand is stable and supporting the weight properly.
- Perform Your Task: You can now safely perform the necessary maintenance or repair.
- Lower the Vehicle (if not using a jack stand): If you are only raising the vehicle to change a tire, and not using a jack stand, lower the vehicle slowly and carefully back to the ground after you have completed your work.
- Remove the Jack Stand (if used): Once your work is complete, slowly raise the vehicle with the jack, remove the jack stand, and then carefully lower the vehicle to the ground.
- Final Checks: Before driving, double-check that the lug nuts (if you changed a tire) are properly tightened to the manufacturer’s specifications (found in your owner’s manual). Remove the wheel chocks.
4. Choosing the Right Jack
While the scissor jack that comes with your CX-5 might be sufficient for changing a flat tire, a floor jack offers greater stability and ease of use, especially for more involved tasks. Consider these points when choosing a jack:
- Weight Capacity: Ensure the jack has a weight capacity that exceeds your CX-5’s gross vehicle weight (GVW), which is typically found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb.
- Lift Height: Choose a jack with a lift height suitable for your needs.
- Build Quality: Invest in a jack from a reputable manufacturer to ensure durability and safety.
- Consider a Rubber Jack Pad: This can protect the vehicle’s frame from damage.
5. Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Jack Slipping: If the jack is slipping, ensure it’s properly positioned on the jacking point and that the surface is stable. Consider using a rubber jack pad for better grip.
- Vehicle Not Lifting Evenly: If the vehicle isn’t lifting evenly, stop and re-evaluate the jack’s positioning. Ensure the jack is centered and the surface is level.
- Difficulty Lowering the Vehicle: Ensure the jack is properly aligned and that the release valve is functioning correctly. If you’re using a jack stand, make sure it’s clear of the vehicle before lowering.
Conclusion
Jacking up your Mazda CX-5 is a manageable task when approached with the right knowledge and safety precautions. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can confidently change a tire, perform routine maintenance, or tackle small repairs. Always prioritize safety, consult your owner’s manual, and never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack. With practice and attention to detail, you’ll become proficient at this essential car maintenance skill.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Where can I find the specific jacking points for my Mazda CX-5?
The exact jacking points are detailed in your owner’s manual. Look for a section on “Jacking and Lifting” or similar. The manual will also provide diagrams.
2. Is it safe to use a jack stand on gravel or uneven surfaces?
No. Always work on a level, stable surface like concrete or asphalt. Gravel and uneven surfaces can compromise the jack stand’s stability and lead to accidents.
3. Can I jack up the CX-5 by the differential (if applicable)?
While some vehicles allow for jacking by the differential, it’s generally not recommended for the Mazda CX-5, or for any vehicle, unless specifically stated in the owner’s manual. Use the designated jacking points.
4. What should I do if my jack fails while the vehicle is lifted?
If your jack fails, immediately stop working and do not attempt to repair the jack while the vehicle is lifted. If you are working with a jack stand, the jack stand should keep the vehicle supported. If you are not working with a jack stand, carefully lower the vehicle and reassess the situation. It is best to have a new jack on hand before resuming work.
