How to Stay Safe When Your EV Needs a Lift

Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming more common on our roads, but lifting them safely can be tricky if you're unprepared. EVs have high-voltage systems and a large battery pack and require special attention to avoid damaging the vehicle or, worse, injuring yourself. 

Today, we’ll discuss some best practices to ensure you're handling your EV lift safely and efficiently.

Understand the Weight Distribution of EVs

One of the first things to note when lifting an EV is the difference in weight distribution compared to traditional gas-powered vehicles. Most of an EV’s weight is concentrated in its battery pack, usually placed along the vehicle's floor. This lower center of gravity means lifting an EV can sometimes feel uneven or unstable if not done correctly.

Key Takeaway

Always check your owner's manual to find the recommended lifting points. Lifting at the wrong points can damage the undercarriage or the battery system.

Using the Right Equipment

Never assume that your regular car jack is sufficient for lifting an electric vehicle. EVs often weigh more than their traditional counterparts due to their battery packs. Using the wrong jack could cause it to buckle under the weight, creating a dangerous situation for both you and your vehicle.

Tips for Safe Lifting

• Use a high-lift jack rated for heavier vehicles.
• Consider using jack stands or an EV-specific car lift. This will ensure the car is stable while you work underneath.
• Always ensure the vehicle is on a flat, level surface before lifting it. This reduces the risk of the car tipping over during repairs.

Pay Attention to the Battery Pack

The biggest concern when lifting an EV is battery pack safety. EV batteries are encased in a protective shell but can still be sensitive to impacts. Lifting an EV improperly can cause damage to this casing, which can lead to dangerous battery leaks or even fires.

Safety Precautions

• Identify the lift points on your EV. Most EVs have pre-defined lift points to avoid damaging the battery. These can be found in your vehicle’s user manual or on the manufacturer’s website.
• Never use the battery casing as a lift point. Doing so can puncture the battery and cause severe electrical or fire hazards.
• Use wheel chocks to prevent accidental movement while lifting the vehicle, ensuring it remains stationary throughout the process.

Dealing With High Voltage Safely

One of the unique features of EVs is their high voltage systems, which can pose a serious safety risk if you’re not careful. Even with the car off, the battery retains a significant amount of energy, making it crucial to handle the vehicle cautiously.

Things to Avoid

• Never work on an EV with wet hands or in damp conditions, as this increases the risk of electric shock.
• Make sure to disconnect the high-voltage system (if you’re experienced) before conducting any major repairs, especially if you're working near the battery pack.
• If you’re unsure, call in a professional. Handling the high-voltage system without proper training can be extremely dangerous.

Mind the Suspension System

Because electric vehicles are heavier, the suspension systems are often more robust than in traditional cars. This means that, after lifting, you’ll want to ensure the car is adequately supported to prevent damage to the suspension.

• Use rubber pads between the lift and the lift points to prevent wear and tear on the suspension components.
• If the suspension seems uneven or compromised after lifting, inspecting the shocks and struts to ensure they haven’t been stressed during the lift is best.

Additional Safety Measures

If you’re working in your garage or driveway, ensure the area around the EV is clear of debris. This will prevent any accidents caused by tripping or bumping into objects. Always wear the correct PPE when working on an EV, as the components can sometimes become unexpectedly hot, and tools can slip during the repair process.

EVs and Fire Hazards

Damage to the EV's battery can lead to fires in rare cases. Always have a fire extinguisher on hand when working on an EV. Opt for a Class D fire extinguisher, which is designed to handle battery-related fires.

Conclusion 

Staying safe when your EV needs a lift is all about preparation and using the right tools. By understanding the unique challenges of lifting electric vehicles, including their weight distribution, high-voltage systems, and delicate battery packs, you can ensure that both you and your vehicle are protected throughout the process.

When in doubt, don’t hesitate to call a professional who specializes in EVs, especially if the repair involves high-voltage components. Safety should always come first.

Check out our article here to learn what to do if you’re stranded in your EV.