How to Maintain Your Floor Jack for Long-Term Performance

Your jack is one of the most important tools in your garage. Whether lifting a performance car for quick adjustments or supporting a classic build during a full restoration, your jack needs to be reliable, safe, and ready when you are.

But like any tool, a floor jack needs regular attention to stay in top shape. Neglect leads to wear, and maintenance leads to performance. Here's how to keep your floor jack running smoothly for the long haul.

1. Keep It Clean

After every use, wipe down your jack. Dirt, dust, brake grime, and fluid spills can build up around moving parts, wheels, and seals. Over time, that grime leads to corrosion and reduced performance.

Quick Tip: A clean microfiber towel and a shot of compressed air go a long way in tight spaces. 

Focus especially around the piston, handle pivots, and casters.

2. Check for Hydraulic Fluid Leaks

Hydraulic jacks rely on internal pressure to lift. If that system is compromised by a leak—even a small one, you’ll notice slow or uneven lifting.

What to look for:

• Pooled fluid under the jack

• Reduced lift height

• A “spongy” feel when pumping the handle
  
  

What to do:
If you notice any of the above, check your hydraulic fluid level and refill with jack-specific hydraulic oil. Never use brake fluid or motor oil—they’ll damage the seals.

3. Top Off Hydraulic Fluid (If Needed)

Fluid levels can drop over time and with use. To keep your jack operating at full strength, check and top off fluid regularly.

How to check it:

• Lower the jack fully
  

• Remove the fill plug
  

• Fluid should be level with the bottom of the fill hole
  
  

Use only hydraulic jack oil—anything else can ruin internal components.

4. Lubricate Moving Parts

Just like your car, your jack has components that move under pressure. To keep things working smoothly:

• Apply grease to the pivot points, axles, and wheels
  

• Lightly oil the handle socket and release valve threads

• Avoid over-lubricating around the piston/seal area to prevent attracting dust and debris
  
  

5. Inspect for Wear and Damage

Before each use, take 30 seconds to check your jack for:

• Cracked or bent frames
  

• Worn-out wheels or casters
  

• Loose bolts or fasteners
  

• Leaking seals or deformed saddles
  
  

Catching small problems early can prevent failure when it matters most.

6. Store It Right

Where and how you store your jack makes a big difference in its lifespan.

• Always lower the jack fully before storing to relieve pressure on the hydraulics
  

• Keep it in a dry, clean space to avoid rust and corrosion
  

• If possible, cover it or store it in a cabinet to keep dust and moisture out
  
  

7. Service It—Don’t Toss It

A major benefit of owning a high-quality jack like a Pit Boss is that it’s designed to be serviced, not replaced. With available parts like wheels, handles, and seals, you can keep your jack running strong for years instead of tossing it when something small wears out.

Final Thoughts

Your jack is the foundation of nearly every garage project. Taking a few minutes to keep it clean, lubricated, and leak-free can extend its life, improve safety, and ensure it’s always ready to do its job.

Built to last doesn’t mean maintenance-free—treat your tools like you treat your build.

Looking to upgrade to a jack that’s built for long-term performance and easy maintenance?
Explore the full lineup at Pit Boss Jacks.