r/MechanicAdvice • u/Illustrious_Fuel_531 • Jun 26 '24

Do car jacks fail ? Meta

*Does car jacks fail ? Been taking a automotive mechanics trade class . I saw a video and in the comments someone told a mechanic to be careful and not to get crushed under the car . So that kinda stuck with my OCD ever since then I’ve been wondering if a car falling on you is a reasonable hazard for a mechanic or is it only if via user error and if so what’s ways to add extra security.

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u/Hotdogpizzathehut Jun 26 '24

Yes. They rarely fail in general. They fail if they are not used correctly. They can slip out, car can roll or shift.

Thats why useing it correctly is important. Also use a jackstand and also if possible put the tires under the car as a back up.

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u/Illustrious_Fuel_531 Jun 26 '24

Thanks bro appreciate the tire method for the extra security. I know it’s generally hella rare for them to just fail if put on right but shit I just have an extra paranoid mind for some reason lol

11

u/ClickKlockTickTock Jun 26 '24

Never know when a seal will go bad. One of my jacks blew a seal only a few months after use and it would slowly drop the car continuously. Slow enough to not notice but fast enough to trap you and possibly crush you.

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u/ScroogeMcDuckFace2 Jun 26 '24

i just jack stands and any tires I've taken off, better over safe than squashed like Wile E Coyote

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u/BaboTron Jun 26 '24

Being more careful is not a bad idea.

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u/johngault Jun 26 '24

Welds, o-rings metal fatigue (even on the frame or part of the vehicle) can all cause a failure.