Grab your floor jack and make sure the pressure relief valve is closed. (Usually, you close the valve by twisting the jack lever clockwise.)

Don't use your vehicle's emergency jack for routine repairs. The emergency jack is for emergencies, such as when you need to change a flat tire. A hydraulic floor jack of the sort pictured here is sturdier, more durable, and better suited to general maintenance and repair.

If your jack leaks fluid or shows other signs of disrepair, stop working and repair or replace your jack before you proceed.