How to Jack Up a Tesla Model Y Safely and Effectively

Knowing how to jack up a Tesla Model Y safely is essential for routine maintenance tasks like tire rotations, wheel changes, or visual inspections. However, because the Model Y’s large battery pack is located beneath the cabin floor, incorrect lifting can cause severe and expensive damage. This guide covers the safest, Tesla-endorsed way to lift your Model Y, explains the exact jack points, and highlights why using lifting pads is strongly recommended.

Why Proper Jacking Matters for Tesla Model Y
Tesla’s electric vehicles, including the Model Y (2020–2025+), are engineered with their high-voltage battery running along the bottom of the car. Lifting the vehicle at the wrong spot, even by a few inches, risks crushing or cracking the battery enclosure, deforming body panels, or damaging suspension components. Tesla’s official instructions—in the Model Y Owner’s Manual—make clear that owners must use only the designated jack points and that the use of appropriate lifting pads is not optional.

Officially-Approved Jack Points: Where to Lift the Model Y
On every Tesla Model Y, there are four reinforced jack points, one at each corner under the rocker panels (the lower sides, just inside the edge below the doors). To find them:

• Look for small oval recesses or markings in the black plastic underbody trim, just behind the front wheels and just in front of the rear wheels.
• Each jack point is reinforced and purpose-built for lifting. Only these four locations are safe for supporting the car’s weight.

Never attempt to lift your Model Y from:

• The battery casing or anywhere on the floor pan
• Any suspension component or control arm
• The front or rear differential
• “Quick” spots like pinch welds not specifically marked

Lifting from non-approved areas can cause permanent vehicle damage or even introduce a risk of fire by compromising the HV battery.

Lifting Jack Pads: Critical Protection for Battery and Frame
When jacking up a Tesla Model Y, you must use a lifting jack pad between the jack and the vehicle’s jack points. Jack pads, such as the TESKAY Lifting Jack Pad for Model Y (2020–2025+), are specifically shaped to fit the recessed holes at the jack points. This ensures force is distributed over the reinforced areas and keeps the jack head off the soft underbody trim or battery pack.

• Never attempt to use a universal disc or bare jack head—these can slip or cause concentrated pressure.
• TESKAY jack pads are designed for all modern Tesla models, with precise fitment confirmed for the Model Y.
• Correct use of a jack pad prevents scuffed paint, crushed trim, and expensive battery enclosure repairs.

Preparing Your Model Y: Activate ‘Jack Mode’ (If Equipped)
If your Model Y is equipped with adaptive air suspension (check your model year and spec), you must activate ‘Jack Mode’ before lifting. Jack Mode overrides the car’s automatic leveling and disables the suspension’s self-leveling during service. Failing to do this could cause the vehicle to auto-adjust while on the jack, risking instability.

• To activate Jack Mode, use the touchscreen menu: tap ‘Controls’ > ‘Service’ > ‘Jack Mode.’
• If your Model Y does not have air suspension (many North American Model Ys do not), you may not have a Jack Mode option. Always check your owner’s manual for your specific vehicle.

After activating Jack Mode, ensure the vehicle is in Park with the parking brake engaged. Confirm the area around the car is clear and the surface is level and solid (avoid gravel or loose ground).

Step-by-Step: How to Safely Jack Up a Tesla Model Y

1. Gather your equipment: You’ll need a high-quality hydraulic floor jack, a Model Y-compatible jack pad, and jack stands rated for at least 4,000 lbs. Be sure your tools are in good condition.
2. Park and prepare: Park the vehicle on a flat, stable surface, engage the parking brake, and place wheel chocks behind the wheels remaining on the ground.
3. Insert the jack pad: Locate the nearest jack point and press the lifting jack pad firmly into the recess until it is fully seated.
4. Position the jack: Center the jack saddle directly under the jack pad. Check from multiple angles to confirm the pad and jack align in the reinforced area.
5. Lift the vehicle: Slowly and steadily pump the jack handle to raise the car. Pause when the wheel leaves the ground and observe any shifting or instability.
6. Set a jack stand: Once lifted, place a properly-rated jack stand near the jack point for additional support. Lower the jack gently until the vehicle’s weight sits largely on the stand, not the jack.
7. Double-check stability: Push gently on the car to check that it does not rock or shift. Never crawl under a Model Y unless it is fully supported by jack stands—not just a jack.

To lower the vehicle, reverse the order: carefully lift the car off the stand, remove the stand, and gently lower the car with the jack until the wheel contacts the ground. Then remove the jack pad.

Essential Safety Guidelines

• Do not use the jack or jack stands on uneven, sloped, or soft surfaces.
• Confirm the weight rating on your jack and stands meets or exceeds the Model Y curb weight.
• Never: Get under the vehicle supported only by a jack, lift from non-designated points, or use makeshift jack pads (like wood blocks), as these are unsafe for Tesla’s battery architecture.
• If unsure or uncomfortable, consult a qualified Tesla service technician—all official warnings advise this for significant lifting tasks.

Recommended Accessories and Parts
For maximum protection, use jack pads like the TESKAY Jack Pad for Model Y. Reliable lifting pads are a minimal investment compared to the cost of potential damage. For those who frequently rotate tires or perform DIY maintenance, you can also browse the Tesla Jack Pads collection on TESKAY for additional options compatible with all Tesla models.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Do I need special jack pads for the Tesla Model Y?
  Yes. The Model Y’s underbody and battery make it critical to use properly fitting jack pads. Generic rubber discs or universal pucks may not fit Tesla’s jack points and could result in damage.
• Can I use a scissor jack or is a hydraulic jack required?
  A hydraulic floor jack is far safer and more stable for the Model Y’s weight. The use of jack stands is required if you’ll be working under the vehicle or leaving it raised for any period of time.
• Where are the front and rear jack points specifically?
  On both sides of the vehicle, there is one jack point just behind the front tire and another just ahead of the rear tire—look for the factory-marked rectangles or holes in the plastic trim.
• Are wheel ramps safe to use instead of a jack?
  Ramps may be used for minor access, but only if the vehicle will remain level and both wheels on an axle will be supported. Never use ramps to lift just one wheel or corner.
• Do all Model Ys have air suspension and Jack Mode?
  Only some configurations, especially outside North America or Performance models, may have air suspension. Always check your specific vehicle for Jack Mode in the touchscreen menu before attempting to lift.

Summary: Jacking Up Your Tesla Model Y, Step by Step
Lifting your Tesla Model Y correctly is not difficult, but it requires attention to detail and the right tools. Always use the designated four jack points, insert compatible jack pads before using your floor jack, and never work under the vehicle unless properly supported by jack stands. Respect Tesla’s official warnings and, when in doubt, consult a certified technician. For proven jack pads and other Tesla accessories, TESKAY offers solutions tested for Model Y owners.