How to Use a Car Ramp Safely Throughout an Oil Change

Changing your own oil can save money and time, however doing it safely is essential. Car ramps are a great different to jacks and stands, providing stability and straightforward access to your vehicle’s underside. However, improper use can lead to critical accidents or vehicle damage. Right here’s an entire guide on how to use car ramps safely during an oil change, ensuring each your safety and your car’s condition.

1. Choose the Proper Car Ramps

Earlier than starting, make certain your ramps are rated to your vehicle’s weight. Most ramps list their weight capacity per pair, so check your owner’s manual on your car’s curb weight. Plastic ramps are suitable for smaller vehicles, while heavy-duty metal ramps are perfect for SUVs or trucks. Always inspect the ramps for cracks, warping, or other damage earlier than use.

It’s also essential to use ramps with non-slip surfaces and raised edges. These options assist forestall your tires from sliding off or losing traction while driving up.

2. Prepare a Safe Work Area

Set up your ramps on a flat, stable, and level surface comparable to a garage floor or driveway. Avoid gravel, dirt, or uneven ground — these can cause instability. If the surface is smooth, place rubber mats or grip pads under the ramps to forestall them from slipping.

Put your car in park (or in gear if it’s manual) and interact the parking brake. Double-check that the world is well-lit and ventilated, especially should you’re working indoors.

3. Align and Position the Ramps

Position the ramps so that they’re straight and aligned with the front tires. Misalignment can cause the tires to slip off the sting while driving up. Depart sufficient space behind the ramps so that you can drive up smoothly without making sharp turns.

It helps to have someone guide you, but in case you’re working alone, you possibly can place a marker or piece of tape in front of the ramps that will help you line up correctly.

4. Drive Onto the Ramps Slowly

Start your car and drive forward very slowly. Keep your wheels straight and gently press the accelerator. As your tires climb the ramps, preserve steady control. Once you feel the car attain the top and stop moving upward, gently apply the brakes.

Have a helper confirm that your tires are centered on the ramps and fully seated within the top groove. Should you’re alone, step out carefully and check earlier than proceeding.

Once in position, shift the vehicle into park (or first gear for manuals), and have interaction the parking brake firmly.

5. Secure the Vehicle

Place wheel chocks behind the rear tires to prevent the car from rolling backward. This is a crucial safety step that many people overlook. Chocks may be purchased inexpensively, or you should utilize sturdy wooden blocks as an alternative.

Shake the vehicle slightly to ensure it’s stable earlier than crawling underneath. If the ramps or surface shift even slightly, reposition everything and start again.

6. Perform the Oil Change

Now that your car is secure, you can proceed with the oil change. Place an oil drain pan under the oil plug, remove the plug with the appropriate wrench, and allow the old oil to drain completely. Replace the oil filter, reinstall the drain plug, and refill the engine with the recommended oil type and quantity.

After finishing, double-check for leaks before starting the engine.

7. Safely Drive Off the Ramps

When you’re finished, remove the wheel chocks and slowly reverse off the ramps. Keep the steering wheel straight and avoid jerky movements. Once the vehicle is on the ground, check the oil level once more to ensure it’s within the recommended range.

8. Safety Tricks to Remember

By no means crawl under the car unless it’s absolutely secured and stable.

Keep away from overloading ramps beyond their rated capacity.

Examine ramps periodically for damage or wear.

Always work on a cool engine to stop burns.

Keep tools and supplies within attain earlier than starting.

Utilizing car ramps appropriately makes oil changes faster, cleaner, and much safer. With the best precautions, you may maintain your vehicle confidently and keep it running smoothly for years to come.

If you have any sort of concerns relating to where and how you can use ramps for changing oil in car, you can contact us at our web site.