Where to Lift the Can-Am Defender Safely

Find the correct lift points for your Defender and watch step-by-step examples.

Where should you lift the Defender?

The Can-Am Defender is best lifted from the main chassis tubes just inboard of the rocker panels along the side of the body. NOTE: Avoid unsupported body panels, high angle components, tie rods and axles.

Common Lift Points on the Defender

The Defender features a robust steel chassis with clearly accessible lift points near each corner. The front lift points are located on the lower chassis tube behind the skid plate, just inboard of the rockers panel. The rear lift points are also on this same tube but closer to the rear tires. There are alternate lift points as well. Click a video below to learn more.

Defender Lift Point Videos

Watch how to safely lift and support your Defender on the trail.

Electric Jack PRO
▶
Electric Jack PRO
Manual Jack PRO
▶
Manual Jack PRO
Manual Jack Sport
▶
Manual Jack Sport
Scissor Jack
▶
Scissor Jack

Don't see your exact model? Some Can-Am UTVs share similar lift points. Start with the closest match or return to the main guide.

← Back to Lift Point Guide

How to lift your Defender

Follow these steps for a safe lift every time.

1
Choose where you want to lift

Locate the recommended chassis tube or suspension component nearest to the corner of the vehicle you need to access.

2
Lift with control

Position the jack as suggested, adjusting for your specific conditions and needs. On extremely loose or uneven terrain, you made need to manipulate the ground or add a large base for additional stability.

3
Repair and get back on the trail

Complete your repair - tire change, recovery, or trail fix - then lower carefully and confirm the system you worked on and all parts you touched are secure and in working order before packing up and driving again.

What you need to lift the Defender

A compact trail jack with at least 14 inches of total lifting capacity and rated for 2,000 lbs. is needed for the Defender. Pair it with a temporary jack stand (hard shell cooler, tool box, spare tire, large rock or log) for any work that requires time under the vehicle. NOTE: we do NOT recommend you ever place your whole body under a vehicle lifted on the trail without proper jack stands.
Shop Jacks & Tools →

Still have questions?

Defender Lift Point FAQs

The primary lift points are on the main steel chassis tubes behind the skid plate, just inboard of the rocker panels. Please watch the video related to your jack for more info.
The Defender has so little down travel it is safest to lift from the chassis. The high angle of suspension components (in relation to the ground) do not make them the primary lifting point. Please watch the video related to your jack for more info.
The Defender weighs approximately 1,400- 2,900 lbs. depending on configuration. A jack rated for at least 2,000 lbs. is recommended incase you must lift from the low side of the vehicle in an off-camber situation.
For a quick tire swap on the trail, a jack alone can be sufficient. But if the vehicle will be in lifted for any length of time or a body part will be placed under the vehicle always use jack stands.
A compact jack purpose-built SXS or UTV trail jack that works on uneven ground is ideal. Look for one that you can store on your Defender.
Be ready before you need it

The right tools make all the difference when you're miles from help.

Shop Jacks & Tools →