Jacking up your 2016 Jeep Cherokee is an important skill for any owner. Whether you need to change a tire or check the brakes, lifting your SUV safely makes all the difference.
Many people feel nervous about using a jack, but with the right steps, it’s a straightforward task. This guide covers what you need, where to lift, and how to stay safe while working on your Jeep.
Why Jacking Up A 2016 Jeep Cherokee Matters
Many Jeep Cherokee owners face flat tires, worn brake pads, or suspension issues. Being able to jack up your vehicle can save time and money. It also means you won’t have to wait hours for roadside help. However, mistakes can be dangerous. Using the wrong jack point or missing a safety step can lead to injury or damage.
Tools And Materials Needed
Before you start, gather the right tools. Quality equipment is just as important as knowing what to do.
- Hydraulic floor jack (minimum 2-ton capacity)
- Jack stands (at least two, rated for SUVs)
- Wheel chocks
- Tire iron or lug wrench
- Gloves
- Owner’s manual
Some 2016 Jeep Cherokees come with a small scissor jack, but a hydraulic jack is much safer and easier to use.
Step-by-step Guide To Jacking Up Your Jeep Cherokee
1. Park On A Safe Surface
Find a flat, solid surface. Concrete driveways or garages are best. Never jack up your Jeep on a slope or soft ground. Put your car in “Park,” and set the parking brake.
2. Secure The Wheels
Place wheel chocks behind the tires that will stay on the ground. For example, if you lift the front, chock the rear wheels. This prevents rolling.
3. Loosen The Lug Nuts
Before lifting, use the lug wrench to slightly loosen the lug nuts on the wheel you’ll work on. Don’t remove them yet. This step is much harder once the wheel is off the ground.
4. Find The Correct Jack Points
Your 2016 Jeep Cherokee has strong lift points. Look just behind the front wheels and just in front of the rear wheels—near the pinch weld under the doors. Check your owner’s manual for diagrams. Never jack up from the floor pan or underbody panels.
5. Position The Jack
Slide the hydraulic jack under the correct lift point. Make sure the jack pad sits flat against the pinch weld. Some jacks have a groove for extra grip.
6. Lift The Vehicle
Pump the jack handle slowly. As the tire comes off the ground, listen and watch for any shifting.
Lift the Jeep high enough so the wheel you want to remove clears the ground by at least 2 inches.
7. Place The Jack Stands
Slide jack stands under the recommended support points (usually near the jack point). Lower the Jeep gently onto the stands by turning the jack handle slowly. Never work under a Jeep supported only by a jack.
8. Double-check Stability
Give the SUV a gentle shake to be sure it sits securely. If the Jeep shifts or feels unstable, lower it and start again.
9. Finish Your Task
Now you can safely change a tire, inspect brakes, or do other work. Always reverse the process to lower the Jeep: raise it back off the stands, remove stands, then lower fully.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
Many new Jeep owners make these errors:
- Using the wrong jack point – This can bend your frame.
- Not using jack stands – A jack alone can slip and is not safe.
- Jacking on soft ground – The jack can sink, causing the Jeep to fall.
- Forgetting wheel chocks – The vehicle may roll, causing accidents.
- Working under a raised vehicle without checking stability – Always test before going underneath.
Key Safety Tips
- Never put any part of your body under the Jeep unless it’s on jack stands.
- Keep children and pets away from the work area.
- Wear gloves to protect your hands from sharp parts or hot surfaces.
- If you’re unsure, ask for help or check your owner’s manual.
Jeep Cherokee Jack Point Comparison
Here’s a quick reference to help you choose the right jack points:
| Jack Point | Location | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pinch Weld | Behind front wheels, in front of rear wheels | Changing tires, brake jobs | Strongest, safest spot |
| Frame Rail | Under body frame, closer to center | Major repairs | Use only if pinch welds are damaged |
| Differential (rear) | Center of rear axle | Both rear tires | Only with proper adapter |
Floor Jack Vs Scissor Jack
You might wonder if the factory scissor jack is enough. Here’s how the options compare:
| Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Hydraulic Floor Jack | Stable, quick, easy to use | Heavier, costs more |
| Scissor Jack | Portable, fits in trunk | Slow, less stable, harder to use |
Real-world Example
Imagine you’re on a road trip and get a flat tire. You pull over, grab your tools, and follow these steps. Using a hydraulic jack, you finish the job in 20 minutes without waiting for a tow truck. Not only do you save money, but you also gain confidence for next time.
Extra Tips Most Beginners Miss
- Always check the jack’s weight rating. Your Cherokee weighs about 4,000 lbs, so never use a jack rated below 2 tons.
- If working on gravel, place a thick board under the jack for stability.
- After use, inspect your jack and stands for damage.
When To Seek Professional Help
If you notice rust near the jack points, or if the car feels unstable no matter what you do, it’s safer to call a mechanic. Also, never try to lift both sides at once without proper equipment.
For more technical details, you can check the official Jeep Owner’s Manual.
Frequently Asked Questions
How High Should I Jack Up My 2016 Jeep Cherokee?
Raise the vehicle just enough so the tire is about 2 inches off the ground. Extra height is not needed and can make the Jeep less stable.
Can I Use The Factory Scissor Jack For Regular Maintenance?
The scissor jack is for emergencies only. For routine work, use a hydraulic floor jack and stands for better safety and stability.
Where Should I Place The Jack Stands?
Jack stands go under the approved support points—usually near the pinch welds, as shown in the owner’s manual.
What If My Driveway Is Not Level?
Never jack up your Jeep on a slope. Move to a flat area, or use a strong board to level the jack. Safety comes first.
Is It Safe To Jack Up Both Wheels On One Side?
It’s possible with the right tools, but risky for beginners. Always use two jack stands and make sure the surface is flat and solid.
Jacking up your 2016 Jeep Cherokee is easy with the right steps and tools. Take your time, follow safety rules, and you’ll finish the job confidently no need to wait for help.
