Harbor Freight Jack Stand Lawsuit | 2025 Latest Updates

Harbor Freight Jack Stand Lawsuit Overview

Harbor Freight Tools USA issued three recalls in 2020 for Pittsburgh Automotive Jack Stands due to manufacturing defects: approximately 454,000 6-ton stands (March 2020), 1,254,000 3-ton stands (May 2020), and replacement 3-ton stands (July 2020), which could collapse suddenly under load [1].

A class action lawsuit filed in 2020 alleges that approximately 1.7 million Pittsburgh Jack Stands were sold with critical manufacturing flaws posing significant safety risks to consumers, including inconsistent ratchet teeth engagement and, for 3-ton stands, pawl armature hole indexing issues. The defective stands were marketed as heavy-duty equipment but contained dangerous flaws in the ratchet mechanism that could lead to sudden collapse under load.

According to the lawsuit, every Harbor Freight Jack Stand has manufacturing defects which cause the ratchet teeth on the jack stand lifting extension lifting post to inconsistently engage the pawl deep enough. In addition, the 3-ton jack stands allegedly have inconsistent location indexing of the pawl armature holes.

Latest Harbor Freight Jack Stand Lawsuit Updates

November 28, 2023 – HSP Trial Law points out that injuries persisted even after Harbor Freight's 2020 recall, with lawsuits citing design defects and manufacturing failures.

August 18, 2023 – Johnson//Becker filed suit against Harbor Freight after a jack stand collapsed, injuring a Michigan resident—highlighting continued risks despite a prior recall [2].

May 19, 2023 – The McMahon v. Harbor Freight case provides additional precedent of jack stand failure leading to injury—highlighting a recurring issue in product design.

Related Article: Truck Accident Lawsuit

NHTSA Reports and Statistics

Harbor Freight Tools recalled approximately 1.7 million Pittsburgh Automotive 3 Ton and 6 Ton Heavy Duty Steel Jack Stands in 2020 due to the risk of collapse under load, affecting item numbers 56371, 61196, and 61197, with an additional recall of 118,000 replacement 3-ton stands (item 56373). The recalls impacted consumers who purchased these specific models in the U.S. and internationally.

According to NHTSA reports, the defective ratchet teeth on the recalled jack stands may not sufficiently engage the jack stand pawl to a sufficient depth, possibly causing the stand to fail under load. If the Harbor Freight jack stand fails, it can drop suddenly, increasing the risk of serious injury to persons nearby or under the lifted vehicle.

Under load, the stand may drop suddenly, increasing the risk of injury to people near or under a lifted vehicle, - NHTSA said.

Harbor Freight Jack Stand Injuries & Side Effects

The defective Harbor Freight jack stands have been linked to numerous injuries and hazards due to their tendency to collapse unexpectedly.

• Crush Injuries: Sudden collapse can trap individuals under vehicles, causing severe or fatal crush injuries
• Fractures and Broken Bones: Impact from falling vehicles can cause multiple fractures requiring surgical intervention
• Lacerations and Bruising: Sharp edges of vehicles or stands can cause deep cuts and tissue damage
• Property Damage: Unexpected collapse can cause significant damage to vehicles and surrounding property

Do You Qualify for a Harbor Freight Jack Stand Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a Harbor Freight jack stand lawsuit if:

• You purchased Harbor Freight jack stands with item numbers 56371, 61196, or 61197
• You experienced injuries or property damage due to a sudden collapse of the jack stand
• The injuries required medical treatment or hospitalization
• You can provide documentation linking your injuries to the defective jack stand

Evidence Required for a Harbor Freight Jack Stand Lawsuit

Strong evidence is crucial to building a successful case:

• Medical documentation detailing injuries sustained from the defective jack stand
• Proof of purchase showing you bought the affected model
• Photos of the defective jack stand, especially showing the model number and any visible defects
• Documentation of proper usage demonstrating you were using the product as intended

Damages You Can Recover

A successful Harbor Freight jack stand lawsuit may allow you to recover:

• Medical expenses including hospital bills, medications, and ongoing treatment
• Lost wages due to inability to work while recovering
• Pain and suffering caused by injuries and emotional distress
• Property damage to vehicles or other equipment
• Punitive damages in cases of gross negligence

Harbor Freight Recall Information

In 2020, Harbor Freight recalled specific Pittsburgh Automotive Jack Stand models due to manufacturing defects that created a serious safety risk, followed by a recall of replacement stands. The recalls affected:

Model #56371 (3-ton)

• Where to Find It: Look for the item number on the label located at the top of the jack stand.
• Tip: Ensure the label is fully visible and not obscured by wear or dirt.

Model #61196 (3-ton)

• Where to Find It: Check the yellow label near the base of the jack stand for the item number.
• Tip: Examine both sides of the base if you don’t see the number immediately.

Model #61197 (6-ton)

• Where to Find It: Similar to Model #61196, locate the yellow label at the base of the stand.
• Tip: Confirm the label matches the exact number to avoid misidentification.

Model #56373 (3-ton replacement)

• Where to Find It: Check the label for the item number, typically on the top or base of the stand.
• Tip: Verify the number carefully, as these were replacement units issued post-recall.

Harbor Freight is notifying registered owners and stores will provide a gift card equal to the shelf price of the defective Harbor Freight Jack Stands, free of charge. Owners are asked to discontinue use of the recalled jack Harbor Freight stands immediately and return them to their local Harbor Freight store.

The ratchet teeth on the recalled jack stands may not sufficiently engage the jack stand pawl to a sufficient depth, possibly causing the stand to fail under load, NHTSA said. If the Harbor Freight jack stand fails, the jack stand can drop suddenly, increasing the risk of serious injury to persons nearby or under the lifted vehicle.

Related Article: Harbor Freight Roller Seats Recall

Statute of Limitations for Harbor Freight Jack Stand Lawsuits

The time you have to file a claim depends on the statute of limitations in your state, which typically ranges from one to six years for product liability cases. It's critical to consult with a legal professional promptly to ensure you meet the applicable deadlines in your jurisdiction. Delaying action could permanently forfeit your right to compensation for injuries or damages caused by defective Harbor Freight jack stands.

See all related product liability lawsuits our attorneys covered so far.

FAQs

1. Can I file a lawsuit if I was injured by a defective Harbor Freight jack stand?

Yes, if you were injured by a defective Harbor Freight jack stand, you may be able to file a lawsuit for compensation. This could cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related damages. It is recommended to consult with a lawyer who specializes in product liability cases.

2. How can I find out if my Harbor Freight jack stand is part of the recall?

To find out if your Harbor Freight jack stand is part of the recall, check the model number and serial number on the jack stand against the information provided in the recall notice. This information is typically available on the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) website or directly from Harbor Freight.

3. Is it safe to continue using my Harbor Freight jack stand if I haven't experienced any issues?

It is not safe to continue using a recalled Harbor Freight jack stand, even if you haven't experienced any issues. The defect may still pose a risk of injury or property damage, and it is recommended to follow the recall instructions to return or replace the jack stand.

4. What if I've already thrown away my jack stands?

If you've already disposed of your jack stands, it's still possible to pursue a claim. Documenting your purchase through alternative means, such as bank statements, credit card records, or photos of the jack stands before disposal, can help establish proof of ownership.

5. How do I prove the purchase date?

To prove the purchase date, check for receipts, email confirmations, or transaction records from your bank or credit card provider. These documents can serve as evidence even if the original receipt is unavailable.

6. What if I was injured but didn't keep the stands?

If you were injured but no longer have the jack stands, focus on gathering other forms of evidence. Medical records documenting the injury, photos of the incident, or witness statements can strengthen your claim. It's also helpful to provide proof of purchase to link your injuries to the defective product.

7. Does Harbor Freight's gift card offer affect my legal rights?

Harbor Freight's gift card offer does not affect your legal rights. Accepting a refund or gift card does not preclude you from joining a class action lawsuit or pursuing further compensation for damages incurred.

8. How long do I have to file a claim?

The time you have to file a claim depends on the statute of limitations in your state, which typically ranges from one to six years for product liability cases. Consult a legal professional promptly to ensure you meet the applicable deadlines.

9. Is there a class action lawsuit against Harbor Freight?

Yes, in September 2020, a class action lawsuit was filed against Harbor Freight, alleging the sale of 1.7 million defective jack stands that posed significant safety risks. The lawsuit includes all U.S. consumers who purchased Harbor Freight jack stands with item numbers 56371, 61196, and 61197.

10. Are there other jack stand recalls I should be aware of?

Yes, other recalls include the Summit Racing jack stands recall (January 2021) affecting 3-ton stands (part number SUM-918005) and 6-ton stands (part number SUM-918006), and the Hyper Tough jack stand recall (September 2020) affecting Walmart Hyper Tough 2 Ton Jack Stands (model 2TJS, part number 0085001232400).

Take Action Now: Time-Sensitive Legal Claims

Time is limited to pursue legal action for injuries caused by defective Harbor Freight jack stands. Most states restrict your right to file a claim to between one and three years from the date of injury. Don't risk losing your right to compensation.

Our legal team offers:

• Free, confidential consultations to evaluate your case
• No upfront costs or fees to begin your claim
• Payment only if we win your case

Protect your rights and seek the compensation you deserve. Contact our experienced product liability attorneys today to discuss your potential Harbor Freight jack stand lawsuit.

Get a Free Harbor Freight Jack Stand Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers

The Product Liability Litigation Group at Schmidt & Clark, LLP law firm is an experienced team of trial lawyers that focus on the representation of plaintiffs in defective Harbor Freight Jack Stand Lawsuits. We are handling individual litigation nationwide and currently accepting new injury and death cases in all 50 states.

References:

[1] https://www.thedrive.com/news/34629/harbor-freight-recalls-even-more-jack-stands-over-weld-defects 

[2] https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/johnsonbecker-files-lawsuit-against-harbor-freight-tools-usa-for-jack-stand-injuries-in-michigan-301904182.html