Four things to consider when lifting vehicles with high-voltage batteries

Vehicles that use high-voltage (HV) batteries are becoming more common on Canadian roads—whether they are hybrids or electric vehicles (EVs). That means you are more likely to see one come into your shop.

These vehicles have different considerations that need to be kept in mind when lifting or jacking them in order to carry out repairs.

Here are four things you should consider:

1. Battery damage: You could cause damage to a vehicle or the battery by lifting the wrong location or lifting one that is not supposed to be jacked up.
2. Weight: HV batteries are heavy and vehicles that use them can weigh significantly more than standard combustion engine vehicles as a result. If the jack, jack stand or lift cannot hold the vehicle safely because of the extra weight, there is a risk of injury to the technician as well as potential of damages to the vehicle.
3. Damage to surrounding components: It is important to avoid placing lifts or jacks on the battery, but it is just as important to be aware of components surrounding the battery that could be damaged. Make sure you familiarise yourself with the location related HV components—such as heat exchangers and cooling systems—to protect them from damage.
4. Special tools and equipment: Some procedures may require lift hoist pads or adapters be placed properly in specific areas to prevent damage while lifting the vehicle.

Always use the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) vehicle-specific information for locating lift points for HV battery equipped vehicles. This information may be found in:

• Service manuals
• Body repair manuals (BRM)
• Owner’s manuals
• Emergency response guides (ERG)

Some vehicles may have lift locations marked with notches or stamping.

Before lifting or jacking a vehicle, always read the OEM guidelines to ensure you complete a safe and quality repair.

I-CAR Canada has courses to help you deal with the additional safety consideration when working on EVs. Find the right course for you on the I-CAR Canada course catalog.