I jack up the front of my 97 C230 at the designed jack points [rubber pads] .

I place the jackstands under the frame rails located inboard from the jack points. I use a 6x6 piece of plywood between the jackstand and the frame rail to provide a cushion >> no metal to metal contact.

Yea > it's easier to jack up the complete front end in one action >> but IMHO > "no" to jacking up the front via the oil pan.


I do use the "central" method in the rear though... >> maybe have to re-look