A magnetic jack pad is a simple but essential tool for protecting your vehicle during lifting. However, using it incorrectly can lead to damage, instability, and unsafe lifting conditions. Below are the 10 most common mistakes people make when using aluminum magnetic jack pads—and how to avoid them.
1. Placing the Jack Pad on the Wrong Jack Point
Using a jack pad on the wrong spot can damage:
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Pinch welds
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Battery trays (EVs)
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Rocker panels
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Underbody covers
Correct Practice:
Always locate the factory jacking point—Tesla, BMW, Mercedes, and many EVs have precise jack pad holes.
2. Not Checking if the Magnet Is Fully Seated
If the magnet isn’t fully attached:
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The pad can shift
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The vehicle can slip
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Jacking becomes unsafe
Correct Practice:
After attaching the pad, wiggle slightly to confirm full magnetic engagement.
3. Using the Jack Pad on a Dirty or Rusty Surface
Dirt, rust, or metal debris reduces magnet strength.
Correct Practice:
Clean the jacking area with a rag before attaching the pad.
4. Using the Wrong Pad Size for the Vehicle
Different vehicles require different jack pad shapes:
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Tesla → round slot-type
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BMW → rectangular slot
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Universal → pinch weld protection
Correct Practice:
Match the pad design to your model.
5. Positioning the Floor Jack Off-Center
If the jack cup isn’t centered under the pad:
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Jack can slip
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Vehicle may tilt
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Pinch weld can bend
Correct Practice:
Center the jack vertically under the pad before lifting.
6. Lifting Too Quickly
Raising the jack too fast can cause:
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Pad misalignment
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Vehicle movement
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Unexpected shifting
Correct Practice:
Lift slowly and watch both the jack and pad for movement.
7. Lifting on Plastic Underbody Covers
Some EVs and German vehicles have plastic aerodynamic panels.
Mistake: Jacking on plastic → cracking & underbody damage
Correct Practice: ONLY use metal jacking points.
8. Using a Worn or Damaged Jack Pad
Dented aluminum or weak magnets reduce safety.
Correct Practice:
Inspect your jack pad regularly, especially the magnetic ring.
9. Leaving the Jack Pad Attached While Driving
This can:
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Fall off during driving
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Hit suspension components
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Cause road hazard danger
Correct Practice:
Always remove the jack pad after lowering the vehicle.
10. Overloading the Jack or the Jack Pad
Using the wrong rated equipment is dangerous.
Correct Practice:
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Verify jack weight capacity
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Verify jack pad capacity
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Heavy SUVs and trucks require reinforced pads
Conclusion
Using a magnetic jack pad is simple, but avoiding these mistakes ensures maximum safety, stability, and vehicle protection. A properly used jack pad protects your pinch welds, EV battery tray, and underbody while giving your jack a secure lifting surface.