Changing a tire on your Mercedes-Benz might seem daunting, but with the factory car jack and the right technique, it’s a manageable task. It’s crucial to understand the correct procedure to avoid damaging your vehicle and ensure your safety. This guide will walk you through the proper way to use your Mercedes-Benz car jack, emphasizing safety and the importance of using designated jacking points.
Identifying the Correct Jacking Points on Your Mercedes-Benz
Your Mercedes-Benz is engineered with specific jacking points designed to safely lift the vehicle. Never use the factory jack on the chassis or suspension components. Using incorrect points can lead to serious damage to your car’s structure. Refer to your owner’s manual for the precise location of these jacking points. Typically, they are located along the rocker panels, just behind the front wheels and in front of the rear wheels. These points are usually reinforced areas designed to withstand the pressure from the jack.
Preparing to Use Your Mercedes-Benz Factory Jack
Before you begin, ensure your Mercedes-Benz is parked on a level, stable surface, away from traffic. Engage your parking brake firmly. Locate your factory car jack and the tools needed – usually a wrench to operate the jack and sometimes a flat-head screwdriver. Your jack is typically stored in the trunk, often with the spare tire.
To access the jacking point, you may need to remove a small plastic cover. As mentioned in the original guide, you can often use a flat-head screwdriver or even your finger to gently pry out this square cover, revealing the slot for the jack. Take note of the cover’s orientation before removal for easy reinstallation later.
Step-by-Step Guide to Using the Mercedes-Benz Car Jack
- Position the Jack: Carefully place the Mercedes-Benz car jack into the designated slot at the jacking point you’ve located. Ensure it is securely seated in the slot.
- Cranking the Jack: Using the provided wrench, begin to crank the jack in a clockwise direction. Lift the vehicle slowly and steadily. You’ll notice the jack will be at an angle initially, which is normal. As the car lifts, it will gradually become more level.
- Lift to the Necessary Height: Raise the car just enough to safely remove the flat tire and install the spare. Avoid lifting it excessively high.
- Safety First: While the factory jack is designed for emergency tire changes, it is not intended for prolonged use or vehicle maintenance. If you need to perform more extensive work, always use jack stands for added safety once the vehicle is lifted to the desired height using the jack.
- Lowering the Vehicle: After changing the tire, slowly lower the vehicle by cranking the jack in a counter-clockwise direction. Ensure a controlled and smooth descent.
- Replace the Cover: Once the jack is removed, pop the plastic cover back into place, aligning it as you noted during removal.
Why Avoid Jacking on the Chassis?
The original article rightly warns against using the jack directly on the chassis. The Mercedes-Benz factory jack is specifically designed with a spindle that fits into the slots at the designated jacking points. Attempting to use it on the chassis presents several risks:
- Chassis Damage: The chassis is not designed to withstand concentrated pressure from a jack in arbitrary locations. You risk bending or damaging structural components.
- Unstable Lifting: The round spindle of the jack is designed to be secured within the jacking point slot. Placing it directly under the chassis creates an unstable lifting point, increasing the risk of the jack slipping. This is extremely dangerous as the vehicle could fall.
- Incorrect Jack Stand Placement: If you were to lift the car on the chassis with the factory jack, you would likely be obstructing or damaging the correct locations for placing jack stands, further compromising safety if you intend to work under the car.
In conclusion, using your Mercedes-Benz car jack correctly is essential for both your safety and the well-being of your vehicle. Always refer to your owner’s manual for specific jacking point locations and procedures for your model. By following these guidelines, you can confidently and safely handle a tire change using your Mercedes-Benz factory car jack.
