2016 Mazda CX-5 Jack Points: The Safe Lifting Guide Every Owner Should Know
The 2016 Mazda CX-5 is a popular and reliable compact SUV, known for its sporty handling and fuel efficiency. Whether you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast or just need to change a tire, knowing the correct jack points for your CX-5 is crucial for safety. Improper lifting can lead to vehicle damage, personal injury, or even worse. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the safe and proper methods for lifting your 2016 Mazda CX-5, ensuring you can confidently perform routine maintenance and repairs.
Understanding the Importance of Correct Jack Point Usage
Using the wrong jack points can have serious consequences. These points are specifically reinforced areas of the vehicle designed to bear the weight during lifting. Deviating from these locations can lead to:
- Vehicle Damage: Bending or crushing of body panels, frame damage, and suspension component stress.
- Jack Slippage: An unstable lift, potentially causing the vehicle to fall.
- Personal Injury: Risk of being crushed under the vehicle.
- Voiding Warranty: Damage caused by improper lifting might not be covered under your vehicle’s warranty.
Identifying the 2016 Mazda CX-5 Jack Points
Your 2016 Mazda CX-5 has specific, reinforced areas designed for lifting. These are clearly marked and accessible.
1. Factory Jack Points for Tire Changes (Included with Vehicle):
These are the jack points you’ll primarily use with the jack that came with your car. They are located along the pinch welds on the vehicle’s sides.
- Front: Located behind the front wheels, near the rocker panel. You’ll see a small notch or arrow indicating the designated spot.
- Rear: Located in front of the rear wheels, near the rocker panel. Look for a similar notch or arrow.
Important Considerations for Factory Jacking:
- Use the Jack Included: Only use the jack that came with your CX-5 for these points. It’s designed to fit and lift the vehicle safely at these locations.
- Park on a Level Surface: Ensure the vehicle is parked on a firm, level surface, and the parking brake is engaged.
- Chock the Wheels: Place wheel chocks behind the wheels opposite the one you are lifting to prevent rolling.
- Consult the Owner’s Manual: Always refer to your owner’s manual for specific instructions and diagrams.
2. Jack Points for Floor Jacks and Jack Stands (For More Extensive Maintenance):
For more involved maintenance, such as oil changes or brake work, you’ll want to use a floor jack and jack stands. These provide a more stable and secure lifting method.
- Front Center Jack Point (Under the Engine): This is usually a reinforced area on the front subframe, accessible from the front of the vehicle. Consult your owner’s manual for the exact location, as it may vary slightly. Using a rubber jack pad can protect this area from damage.
- Rear Center Jack Point (Under the Rear Differential or Subframe): Similar to the front, look for a reinforced area in the center rear of the vehicle. The location may be on the rear differential or a subframe member. Again, refer to your owner’s manual for the precise location.
- Jack Stand Placement: After lifting the vehicle with a floor jack, always support the vehicle with jack stands. Place the jack stands on the designated frame rails or reinforced areas near the factory jack points. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
Safe Lifting Procedures: Step-by-Step Guide
Following these steps will help ensure a safe and successful lifting experience:
- Preparation:
- Park on a level, stable surface.
- Engage the parking brake firmly.
- Chock the wheels opposite the wheel you are lifting.
- Gather your equipment: jack, jack stands, wheel chocks, and the correct jack pad (if using a floor jack).
- Factory Jacking (Tire Change):
- Consult your owner’s manual to identify the exact locations for your vehicle.
- Position the factory jack correctly at the designated pinch weld point.
- Slowly raise the vehicle until the tire is off the ground.
- Change the tire.
- Lower the vehicle slowly and carefully.
- Floor Jack and Jack Stand Lifting (More Extensive Maintenance):
- Locate the front or rear center jack point using your owner’s manual.
- Position the floor jack under the designated jack point. Consider using a rubber jack pad to protect the vehicle’s undercarriage.
- Slowly raise the vehicle until it is high enough to comfortably place jack stands.
- Position jack stands under the recommended support points (frame rails or reinforced areas near the factory jack points).
- Slowly lower the vehicle onto the jack stands.
- Double-check the stability of the vehicle before working underneath.
- Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
Safety Precautions: Your Top Priorities
- Always use jack stands: This is the most critical safety measure. Never rely solely on a jack to support the vehicle.
- Wear appropriate safety gear: Wear eye protection (safety glasses) and gloves.
- Work on a solid surface: Avoid lifting on uneven or unstable ground.
- Never get under a vehicle that is not properly supported: This is a recipe for serious injury.
- Read the owner’s manual: It provides precise instructions and diagrams specific to your 2016 Mazda CX-5.
- If you’re unsure, seek professional help: If you’re uncomfortable with any aspect of lifting your vehicle, consult a qualified mechanic.
Conclusion
Lifting your 2016 Mazda CX-5 safely is essential for performing maintenance and repairs. By understanding the correct jack points, following the proper procedures, and prioritizing safety, you can protect both your vehicle and yourself. Always consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions and never take shortcuts when it comes to safety. With a little knowledge and caution, you can confidently tackle many DIY projects on your CX-5.
FAQs
1. Where can I find the jack that came with my 2016 Mazda CX-5?
The jack is typically located in the spare tire compartment or under the cargo floor in the trunk. Consult your owner’s manual for the exact location.
2. Can I use a different jack than the one that came with the car?
Yes, you can use a floor jack, but it’s crucial to use the correct jack points for your CX-5 and always support the vehicle with jack stands.
3. What happens if I use the wrong jack points?
Using the wrong jack points can damage your vehicle’s frame, body panels, and suspension components. It can also lead to the jack slipping and causing the vehicle to fall, resulting in serious injury.
4. Are there any specific jack pads I should use with my floor jack?
Using a rubber jack pad can protect the vehicle’s undercarriage from scratches and damage. It’s a worthwhile investment for anyone who plans to lift their vehicle frequently.
5. What if I don’t have jack stands?
Never work under a vehicle without jack stands. It’s unsafe and puts you at risk of serious injury or death. If you don’t have jack stands, you should not attempt to lift your vehicle for any maintenance or repair that requires you to get under it.
