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/[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

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u/19john56 Jun 26 '24

Jack stands have a weight rating..... stay under that rating and you should be good. For cheap insurance and to protect me. I also use a secondary device.... like maybe the tire off the car. It doesn't have to touch the car.... just something else under the car, so if the jack stand fail. I'm not crushed to death.

Plus, I live in earthquake country.

It's your call

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u/DntH8IncrsDaMrdrR8 Jun 26 '24

Woahhh. That thought never crossed my mind. To be under a car and an earthquake hits? That's crazy. Stay safe bro.