Knowing where do you jack up a Honda Accord is the most important step for any DIY maintenance. Lifting your car in the wrong spots can cause serious damage to the frame, body, or even lead to a dangerous collapse.
This guide will show you the correct lift points for every generation and model, from the classic 90s sedans to the latest hybrids. We’ll cover using a floor jack, jack stands, and even professional lift pads.
Where Do You Jack Up A Honda Accord
Every Honda Accord has specific, reinforced points designed to handle the weight of the vehicle. Using these points is non-negotiable for safety. The main areas are the front center jack point and the side jacking points.
Essential Tools You’ll Need
Before you start, gather the right equipment. Using the wrong tools is a common mistake.
- A hydraulic floor jack (with a minimum 2-ton capacity, 3-ton is better).
- At least two jack stands (rated for your car’s weight).
- Wheel chocks to block the wheels that remain on the ground.
- A piece of wood or a hockey puck to protect the jack point when using a floor jack.
Finding Your Accord’s Model Year and Trim
Lift points can vary between generations. Check your driver’s side door jamb for the manufacturer’s sticker—it lists the model year and VIN. Knowing if you have a sedan, coupe, or hybrid is also helpful, though lift points are usually similar.
Quick Reference by Generation
- 5th-7th Gen (1994-2007): Often have visible front subframe rails and reinforced sills.
- 8th-9th Gen (2008-2017): Defined pinch welds with marked jack points.
- 10th Gen & Newer (2018-Present): Clear plastic covers or marked points on the sills.
The Front Center Jack Point
This is the primary point for getting the front end off the ground. It’s a reinforced section of the front subframe, located behind the engine oil pan.
- Park on a flat, level, and hard surface. Engage the parking brake firmly.
- Chock the rear wheels to prevent any rolling.
- Locate the front crossmember. It’s a sturdy, beam-like metal part running side-to-side.
- Place your floor jack, ideally with a wood block or puck on its pad, directly under the center of this crossmember.
- Lift slowly until the front tires clear the ground. Then, immediately place jack stands under the designated side points.
The Side Jacking Points (Pinch Welds)
These are the most common points for using the car’s included scissor jack and for placing jack stands. They are the reinforced seams along the bottom of the car’s rocker panels.
- Look for small notches or arrows in the plastic rocker panel trim.
- On older models, you’ll see a distinct vertical seam or a section of the pinch weld that looks more robust.
- Never jack directly on the rocker panel metal itself—it will bend.
How to Jack from the Side
- Chock the wheels at the opposite end of the car.
- Locate the correct pinch weld point, just behind the front wheel or ahead of the rear wheel.
- Position your floor jack with a groove adapter or a piece of wood with a slot cut into it to cradle the pinch weld without damaging it.
- Lift only until the tire is off the ground, then place a jack stand under a secure nearby point (like a subframe mount).
Rear Jacking Points
Lifting the rear of your Accord follows a similiar principle. There is often a center point, like the rear differential on older V6 models or a reinforced crossmember.
For most four-cylinder Accords, the rear center point is a marked section of the rear subframe. Always consult your owner’s manual for the exact location. The side pinch welds near the rear wheels are also valid points for jack stands.
Using Jack Stands Correctly
Never work under a car supported only by a jack. Jack stands are your lifeline. After jacking up the car from a central point, place the stands under the reinforced side points.
- Ensure the jack stand is on solid ground and its legs are fully extended for stability.
- The stand’s saddle should contact a flat, solid metal surface, like a subframe mounting point or a dedicated jack stand pad.
- Gently lower the car onto the stands, then give the car a solid shake to test stability before going underneath.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even experienced DIYers can make errors. Here’s what to watch out for.
Jacking on Plastic or Body Panels
This will instantly cause costly damage. Always feel for solid metal with your hand before placing the jack.
Using Only the Scissor Jack for Repairs
The scissor jack is for emergency tire changes only. It is not stable enough for repairs. You must use proper jack stands for any work.
Ignoring the Parking Brake and Wheel Chocks
This simple step prevents the car from rolling off the stands. It takes seconds and is a critical safety habit.
Special Considerations for Different Models
Some Accords have unique features to be aware of.
Hybrid Models
The high-voltage battery pack is usually in the rear. Be extra cautious when lifting the rear end and avoid placing jack stands near the battery casing. Refer to the hybrid supplement in your owner’s manual.
Accords with Side Skirts
Some trims have full side skirts that hide the pinch welds. Look for small, removable access panels or flaps near the wheels. These pop out to reveal the jack point.
What to Do If You Can’t Find the Points
If you’re unsure, stop. Don’t guess. Here are your best options:
- Consult the Owner’s Manual: It has diagrams showing the exact locations.
- Look for Official Guides: Honda service manuals (available online) have detailed pictures.
- Ask a Professional: If it’s your first time, having a mechanic show you once is invaluable.
FAQ: Your Questions Answered
Can I jack up my Honda Accord from the control arm?
It’s not recommended. While it might hold, control arms are not designed as primary lift points and you risk bending them or damaging the bushings.
Where is the jack point on a Honda Accord for a tire change?
Use the side pinch weld point near the tire you are changing, as indicated in your owner’s manual. Use the car’s scissor jack only on this point and only for changing the tire.
How many jack stands do I need?
At least two. If you’re lifting the entire car, you will need four stands. For one end, two stands are sufficient.
Is there a difference between jacking a sedan and a coupe?
Generally, no. The lift points are typically in the same relative locations on the chassis, which is shared between the body styles.
Can I use the engine crossmember as a jack point?
The front center crossmember is the correct point. Be careful to avoid the oil pan which is just above it. Position the jack pad squarely on the crossmember itself.
Final Safety Checklist
Before you slide under the car, run through this list.
- Car is on a level, solid surface (not asphalt on a hot day).
- Parking brake is firmly engaged.
- Wheel chocks are in place.
- Jack stands are under reinforced metal points and are fully locked.
- Car is stable after a shake test.
- The floor jack is still lightly touching the jack point as a secondary safety measure (but not holding weight).
Knowing where do you jack up a Honda Accord gives you the confidence to perform routine maintenance safely. Taking those extra minutes to find the right points and set up your jack and stands correctly protects both you and your vehicle from harm. Always when in doubt, refer to your specific model’s manual or seek professional advice.