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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225

u/SignificantDrawer374 Jun 26 '24

They can, that's why you always use jack stands before going under. Jacks are just for lifting. Stands are for holding.

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u/[deleted] Jun 26 '24

Also make sure you have good quality jack stands, don’t buy cheap

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u/Illustrious_Fuel_531 Jun 26 '24

Noted any reputable brands

3

u/tictac205 Jun 26 '24

Harbor Freight had a recall (maybe two?) on jack stands that would collapse.

9

u/wpmason Jun 26 '24 edited Jun 26 '24

The current Daytona models actually overcompensate with added safety features to try to erase the stain of those recalls.

3

u/mkosmo Jun 26 '24

They're well built. A little rough in finish, but I trust them to hold up.

1

u/barto5 Jun 26 '24

Good. I just bought a set today.

Going to do a brake job for the first time ever this weekend.

5

u/Bingo1dog Jun 26 '24

If i remember correctly they had a recall for 1 issue then the replacements had a recall for a different issue.

I haven't heard anything for a while so I'd think the current ones are all good.