How to safely use a hydraulic jack to inspect your brakes

It is important to ensure your car's brakes are in tip top condition - you don't want to run the risk of faulty brakes when you're on the road. However, it can be difficult to get to the hard-to-reach areas underneath your vehicle.

This is where a hydraulic jack could come in handy.

Before you use this kind of tool ensure you take all necessary precautions as they can be dangerous if not used correctly. Here are some tips to help you on the way.

Don't rely on the jack to hold your vehicle in place

While this tool can be used to get the vehicle off the ground, it should never be used as the sole way to hold it steady.

Make sure you have mechanical or jack stands in place for added support when you are moving the vehicle.

Put the car in the right gear

For a manual transmission, the car should be in first gear and an automatic model should be put in park. Usually you would need to ensure the parking brake is left on, but if you are removing the rear brake drums, it is best to instead ensure the front wheels are blocked securely.

Block the wheels

Whether you use bricks, wooden wedges or metal wheel chocks, it is important to have something in place to stop the car from rolling - especially if you are working underneath it!

Set up adequate lighting 

As well as making sure that both your hands are free to work on the job, you will need to ensure you can see what you're doing.

Consider a battery pack-type light as this will stay put while still directing light exactly where you need it. Plus, this way you won't need to wrangle extension cords or organise a wire cage to cover the bulb, meaning you will also be safe from burns and broken glass.

Wear safety gear

Protect your eyes and head when you are underneath the belly of your car by making sure you have the right gear. 

Park on level ground

No matter what you are using a hydraulic jack for, ensure your car is parked on level ground to prevent it from rolling or shifting above you. Also avoid placing the jack in a place where it could sink into the ground. Place it, instead, on a solid surface.

Loosen the lug nuts before you lift the car

It can be hard - if not impossible - to remove these items once your car has been raised, so make sure you do this job first to avoid wasting any time or attempting any dangerous manoeuvres.

It is important to ensure your car's brakes are in tip top condition - you don't want to run the risk of faulty brakes when you're on the road. However, it can be difficult to get to the hard-to-reach areas underneath your vehicle.