Jacking Up Your Range Rover L663 with Electrically Deployable Side Steps: A Comprehensive Guide

Electrically deployable side steps, also known as power side steps or retractable side steps, are a popular feature on modern SUVs like the Range Rover L663. They offer enhanced convenience and accessibility, automatically extending when doors open and retracting when closed. However, these sophisticated steps can raise questions when it comes to vehicle maintenance, particularly procedures like jacking up your Range Rover for tire changes or inspections.

The question often arises: Do you need to remove electrically deployable side steps before jacking up your Range Rover L663? This article, brought to you by CARDIAGTECH, your trusted source for automotive expertise, will delve into this topic, providing a comprehensive guide to safely and effectively jack up your Range Rover equipped with these steps.

Understanding the Manufacturer’s Recommendation

Vehicle owner’s manuals, including those for Range Rover models, often advise removing electrically deployable side steps before using the emergency scissor jack. This recommendation is primarily due to the potential for interference. The standard scissor jack points on the vehicle’s chassis might be obstructed or difficult to access with the side steps in place. Furthermore, using a scissor jack with side steps deployed could potentially damage the steps themselves.

Real-World Scenarios and Practical Solutions

While the manual provides a guideline for using the emergency scissor jack, the reality is that most routine jacking procedures, such as tire rotations or wheel alignments, are performed in garages using professional trolley jacks or lifts. In these scenarios, removing the electrically deployable side steps is generally not necessary.

Here’s why and what you need to consider:

Using a Trolley Jack or Garage Lift

Garages typically employ high-lift trolley jacks or two-post lifts that engage with designated jacking points on the vehicle’s frame, often from the front or rear, rather than directly from the side sill where the scissor jack is intended to be used. This approach often bypasses any interference with the side steps.

It is important to identify the correct jacking points on your Range Rover L663 when using a trolley jack. Consult your vehicle’s manual for precise locations. Using incorrect jacking points can lead to vehicle damage or instability.

However, even with professional equipment, caution is advised:

• Approach Angle: Ensure the trolley jack or lift arms are positioned in a way that they do not contact or put pressure on the deployed side steps. Approaching the jacking points from the front or rear of the vehicle often provides sufficient clearance.
• Step Deployment: While using a trolley jack, it’s advisable to keep the side steps in their retracted position. This minimizes any risk of accidental contact.

Managing Electrically Deployable Side Steps During Jacking

Even if you’re using a trolley jack and want to be extra cautious, or if you need to use the emergency scissor jack and prefer not to remove the steps, there are methods to manage the electrically deployable side steps:

1. Roof Access/Jacking Mode (Lock-Out): Range Rovers often feature a mode to lock the side steps in the extended position for roof access or jacking purposes. Activating this mode can prevent the steps from retracting unexpectedly while you are working.

   • Refer to your Range Rover L663 owner’s manual for the specific procedure to activate the “roof access and jacking mode.”

2. Door Ajar Method: A simpler method, suggested by Range Rover technicians, is to leave the door on the side you are jacking up slightly ajar. This prevents the side step on that side from retracting automatically.

   • Ensure the vehicle is on a level and stable surface when using the door ajar method. Be mindful of safety and ensure the vehicle is stable before proceeding with jacking.

3. Front or Rear Lifting: As mentioned earlier, using a trolley jack to lift the vehicle from the front or rear jacking points often avoids any interaction with the side steps altogether, regardless of their deployed or retracted state.

When lifting from the front or rear, ensure the trolley jack is placed securely under a designated lifting point, such as the lower suspension arm, as suggested by experienced Range Rover owners. This method can provide quicker and easier lifting.

Conclusion: Practicality and Safety First

While the owner’s manual recommendation to remove electrically deployable side steps before jacking is valid for specific scenarios, particularly with the emergency scissor jack, it is often unnecessary in professional garage settings using trolley jacks or lifts.

Key Takeaways:

• For Scissor Jack: Removing side steps is recommended to avoid interference and potential damage.
• For Trolley Jack/Lift: Removal is generally not needed. Focus on using correct jacking points and appropriate approach angles.
• Safety Precautions: Always prioritize safety. Use jack stands when working under the vehicle. Ensure the vehicle is stable before lifting.
• Utilize Lock-Out/Door Ajar Methods: Employ these techniques to manage step deployment if needed for added safety or convenience.

By understanding these practical considerations, you can confidently and safely jack up your Range Rover L663 equipped with electrically deployable side steps for maintenance and repairs, ensuring both your safety and the integrity of your vehicle’s features. Always consult your Range Rover owner’s manual for specific instructions and safety guidelines related to your model. CARDIAGTECH is committed to providing you with expert automotive insights to keep your vehicle running smoothly.