I am seeking to enter a mechanical milestone, changing my own oil and oil filter. I purchased both a 2-ton hydraulic jack and 4-ton jack stands--both at Autozone--for the job.

Where's the best place under the car to use the hydraulic jack (beyond the areas specified in the manual) without crushing or crunching anything, so then I can put the jack stands on the sides?

I have a 2002 Honda Civic LX.

Thanks in advance (and as you can all guess), I'm a little knew at this, though I've gotten more experienced as I've learned to do simple stuff I use to rely on garages.

 

I would only jack the car up from the OEM spots. Should be one on each side behind the tires, and possibly one under the radiator support in the front. I suggest the front jacking point, and placing jacks where the control arms meet the subframe.

That's what I do at least.

Good luck!

 

You could just buy ramps instead and then not have to mess with the jack ever.

 

+1 on ramps being great for oil changes. Very quick and safe. Of course if you need to do something that involves taking a wheel off, ramps won't work.