Where to Put a Jack to Change a Tesla Tyre Correctly

Finding the correct jack point on a Tesla is essential for a safe and damage-free tyre change. Every Tesla model has reinforced lifting zones designed to support the vehicle when raised. This guide shows you the exact Tesla tyre jack points for each model, so you can handle a flat with confidence and avoid costly repairs.

Changing a tyre on a Tesla might feel a bit different from working on a regular car. The first thing you need to figure out is where to put a jack to change a Tesla tyre. Get this wrong, and you risk damaging the undercarriage or worse. Get it right, and the job takes just minutes.

Whether you drive a Model 3, Model S, Model X, or Model Y, each Tesla has designated lift points. These are strong spots built into the frame that can safely handle the weight of the car when it is raised. In this guide, we will walk you through the exact locations, the tools you need, and the steps to follow so you can change a flat tyre with total confidence.

Let us be honest. Nobody wants to deal with a flat tyre. But when it happens, knowing exactly what to do makes all the difference. You will not be stranded on the side of the road wondering if you are about to scratch your car or make things worse. By the end of this article, you will know exactly where to place the jack on any Tesla model.

Key Takeaways

• Tesla models have specific jack points: Each model has reinforced areas on the chassis designed to handle the weight when lifted.
• Never place a jack on the body panel: Lifting from the wrong spot can cause serious damage to your Tesla’s undercarriage.
• Use the tools provided: Tesla ships with a jack and lug wrench designed for your specific model.
• Safety comes first: Always use jack stands and park on a flat surface before lifting.
• Know your model: Jack points vary between the Model 3, Model S, Model X, and Model Y.
• Practice before you need to: Familiarize yourself with the process at home so you are ready in an emergency.

Why Proper Jack Placement Matters for Your Tesla

Tesla vehicles are engineered with precision. Every curve, every panel, and every support point serves a purpose. The jack points are no different. They are specifically designed to distribute the weight of the car safely when lifted.

Unlike older cars that had exposed frame rails, modern Teslas use a sleek, low-slung design. The battery pack sits flat on the underside, and the body panels are close to the ground. This means there is very little room for error when placing a jack. Put it in the wrong spot, and you could crack a panel, damage the battery housing, or worse.

Here is why getting the jack placement right matters so much:

• Prevents structural damage: Lifting from the wrong area can bend or crack the underbody.
• Protects the battery: Tesla batteries sit low in the chassis. A wrong jack position could puncture or damage them.
• Ensures stability: Correct jack points keep the car secure while you work underneath.
• Avoids costly repairs: A damaged undercarriage on a Tesla can cost thousands to fix.
• Makes the job faster: When you know the right spot, you spend less time figuring things out.

If you want to learn more about general tyre changing steps, check out this how to change a tire step by step guide for a broader overview of the full process.

Tesla Model Jack Points Explained

Each Tesla model has its own unique jack point layout. Let us break them down by model so you can find the one that matches your car.

Model 3 Jack Points

The Tesla Model 3 has two main jack points on each side of the vehicle. These are located on the reinforced pinch welds along the underbody, just behind the front wheels and in front of the rear wheels. You will see small notches or reinforced tabs that are clearly marked in the owner’s manual.

The front jack point sits close to the crash rail, and the rear jack point is near the rear suspension assembly. Tesla provides a specialised low-profile jack that fits perfectly into these points. Always make sure the jack pad sits flush against the reinforced area before lifting.

Model S Jack Points

The Model S is a larger vehicle, and its jack points are slightly different. You will find them on the side sill beams under the doors. These are thick, reinforced sections of the frame that can handle the weight of the car with ease.

There are typically two jack points per side. The front one is closer to the wheel well, and the rear one is near the rear axle. The Model S also comes with a specific jack designed for these lift points. Using a generic jack can be risky, so always try to use the one that came with your vehicle.

Model X Jack Points

The Model X has a more boxy shape, and its jack points are located on the underbody reinforcement rails. These run along the sides of the floor pan and are designed to support the vehicle’s heavier weight, thanks to the large battery pack.

Look for the marked areas near the front and rear axles on each side. The jack pads should sit squarely on these reinforced sections. Because the Model X sits higher off the ground than the Model 3, you have a bit more clearance, but the same rules apply.

Model Y Jack Points

The Model Y shares some design similarities with the Model 3. Its jack points are also located on the reinforced pinch welds along the underbody. The front point is behind the front wheel, and the rear point is ahead of the rear wheel.

Tesla includes a compact jack with the Model Y that is designed to reach these specific points. The good news is that the Model Y has slightly more ground clearance than the Model 3, which can make the jacking process a bit easier.

Step-by-Step Jack Placement Guide

Now that you know where the jack points are, let us walk through the actual process of placing the jack correctly.

Step 1: Park on a Flat Surface

Before you do anything, find a flat, solid surface. A driveway or a parking lot works best. Avoid soft ground, gravel, or sloped areas. Put the car in park and engage the parking brake. This keeps the vehicle from moving while you work.

Step 2: Gather Your Tools

You will need the Tesla jack, the lug wrench, and a spare tyre. Some owners also like to have jack stands for extra safety. You can find great guidance on tyre removal and fitting in this how to fit a 17 inch tyre on a rim article, which covers the full process of removing and mounting a tyre.

Step 3: Loosen the Lug Nuts

Before you lift the car, use the lug wrench to loosen each nut about a quarter turn. Do not remove them completely yet. This keeps the wheel from spinning while you are jacking.

Step 4: Position the Jack at the Correct Point

This is the most important step. Find the reinforced jack point on the side of the car closest to the flat tyre. Slide the jack under the vehicle and centre the jack pad on the designated lift area. Make sure it sits flush and secure before you start lifting.

If you are unsure about the exact location, refer to your Tesla owner’s manual. It has clear diagrams showing the jack points for your specific model.

Step 5: Lift the Vehicle

Use the jack to raise the car slowly. Lift until the flat tyre is about six inches off the ground. Do not put any weight on the car until the jack is fully seated and stable.

Step 6: Remove the Flat Tyre and Install the Spare

Now you can fully remove the lug nuts, take off the flat tyre, and mount the spare. Hand-tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern to ensure even pressure. Lower the car gently, then tighten the nuts fully with the wrench.

Common Mistakes When Jacking a Tesla

Even with the best intentions, people make mistakes when jacking a Tesla. Here are the most common ones to avoid.

Placing the Jack on the Body Panel

This is the number one mistake. The body panels on a Tesla are not meant to support the weight of the car. Placing the jack on the plastic underbody cover or the metal body panel can cause dents, cracks, and expensive damage. Always find the reinforced jack point.

Using the Wrong Type of Jack

Not every jack works with every Tesla. The factory jack is designed specifically for your model’s lift points. Using a hydraulic bottle jack or a scissor jack that is too large can be dangerous. Stick with the Tesla-provided jack or one that is explicitly compatible with your model.

Skipping Jack Stands

Some people lift the car with just the jack and start working underneath. This is risky. A jack can slip or fail. Always use jack stands to support the vehicle once it is lifted. Your safety is worth more than saving a few minutes.

Not Loosening Lug Nuts Before Lifting

If you do not loosen the lug nuts before lifting, the wheel may spin freely once the car is in the air. This makes it impossible to remove the nuts. Always loosen them while the tyre is still on the ground.

Ignoring the Owner’s Manual

Your Tesla owner’s manual has specific instructions for jacking and tyre changes. It also shows the exact jack point locations for your model. Do not skip this step. A few minutes of reading can save you a lot of trouble.

Forgetting to Check Tyre Pressure After Installation

Once you have the spare tyre on, check the pressure before driving. A spare tyre that is underinflated can be dangerous. If you have been dealing with a tyre that can a tyre deflate but not have a puncture, this is especially important to rule out a slow leak in the new tyre as well.

Tools You Need for Changing a Tesla Tyre

Having the right tools makes the job much easier. Here is a quick checklist of what you should have in your Tesla:

• Tesla-provided jack: Designed specifically for your model’s lift points.
• Lug wrench: Usually included with the jack kit.
• Spare tyre: Check that it is properly inflated and in good condition.
• Jack stands: For extra safety while working underneath.
• Torque wrench: To tighten lug nuts to the correct specification.
• Gloves: To protect your hands from dirt and sharp edges.
• Flashlight: Useful if you are changing a tyre at night.

Tesla also offers a mobile service that can come to you and change a tyre for a fee. However, knowing how to do it yourself saves time and money. Plus, it gives you a great sense of accomplishment.

Safety Tips When Jacking an Electric Vehicle

Safety should always come first when working on any vehicle, and Teslas are no exception. Here are some important safety tips to keep in mind.

• Always park on a flat surface: A sloped or uneven ground increases the risk of the jack slipping.
• Use wheel chocks: Place blocks behind the tyres that are still on the ground to prevent rolling.
• Never get under the car on just a jack: Always use jack stands for support.
• Keep tools organised: A cluttered workspace leads to accidents.
• Turn off the car: Make sure the vehicle is completely powered off before you start any work.
• Check the weather: Avoid changing a tyre in rain or on wet surfaces if possible.
• Keep bystanders away: Make sure no one stands near the car while it is lifted.

If you ever feel unsure about any part of the process, it is perfectly fine to call for help. Tesla roadside assistance is available to registered owners, and they can guide you through the process or send a technician if needed.

Changing a Tesla tyre is a skill every owner should have. It is not complicated, but it does require attention to detail. Once you know exactly where to put a jack to change a Tesla tyre, the process becomes quick and straightforward. Practice it once at home so you are fully prepared if you ever face a flat on the road.

Remember to always use the correct jack points, never skip safety steps, and keep your spare tyre in good condition. Your Tesla is a remarkable machine, and taking care of it starts with the basics. Now you have the knowledge to handle a tyre change like a pro.

For more tips on maintaining your Tesla and handling common issues, explore our other guides. We cover everything from basic maintenance to advanced troubleshooting. Stay prepared, stay safe, and keep driving with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where exactly is the jack point on a Tesla Model 3?

The jack point on a Tesla Model 3 is located on the reinforced pinch weld along the underbody, just behind the front wheel and in front of the rear wheel on each side. Tesla provides a low-profile jack that fits these points perfectly.

Can I use any jack to lift a Tesla?

It is best to use the Tesla-provided jack designed for your specific model. Generic jacks may not align properly with the reinforced lift points and could cause damage or instability.

Do I need jack stands when changing a Tesla tyre?

Yes, jack stands are strongly recommended. A jack alone can slip or fail, and having jack stands provides an extra layer of safety while you work underneath the vehicle.

How often should I check my Tesla spare tyre pressure?

You should check your spare tyre pressure at least once every few months. A spare tyre can lose pressure over time, and you want to be sure it is ready when you need it most.

What should I do if I cannot find the jack point on my Tesla?

Refer to your Tesla owner’s manual. It contains detailed diagrams showing the exact jack point locations for your model. You can also contact Tesla support for guidance.

Is it safe to change a Tesla tyre on the highway shoulder?

If possible, pull off the highway and find a flat, safe area away from traffic. Always turn on your hazard lights, set the parking brake, and use wheel chocks before starting the tyre change.