When it comes to vehicle maintenance and repair, having a reliable car jack is not just a matter of convenience; it’s a critical component of ensuring safety and efficiency. A car jack is a humble yet indispensable tool that elevates your vehicle, allowing you to access the undercarriage for various tasks, from changing tires to performing more complex repairs. In this article, we’ll explore the world of car jacks and guide you in selecting the best car jacks to meet your specific needs.
Types of Car Jacks: Choosing the Right Lifting Mechanism
Car jacks come in various types, each designed with specific features and lifting mechanisms. Understanding these types is crucial when selecting the best car jack for your needs. Let’s explore four common types of car jacks and their respective pros and cons:
Scissor Jacks
Scissor jacks are compact and lightweight, often included in vehicle toolkits. They’re affordable and easy to use but have a limited weight capacity, making them suitable for smaller vehicles. Lifting can be slow and requires more effort. Stability is a concern, requiring careful placement and additional support.
Hydraulic Jacks
Hydraulic jacks are known for their high weight capacity and rapid, smooth lifting action. They require less physical effort and offer excellent stability. However, they are heavier, bulkier, and more expensive than scissor jacks. Regular maintenance is crucial for longevity.
Bottle Jacks
Bottle jacks are robust and can lift heavy loads. They are compact and relatively portable. Suitable for various vehicles, but can tip if not used on a level surface. Manual effort may be needed for the screw mechanism, and storage can be challenging due to their shape.
Floor Jacks
Floor jacks are highly stable with a wide base and a high lifting capacity, making them ideal for trucks and SUVs. They offer quick and effortless lifting with a hydraulic mechanism. However, they are bulkier and heavier, less portable than other jacks, and often pricier. Storage space is a consideration due to their size.
Our Top Picks
Image | Product Name & Details | Check Price |
 | Reliable vehicle lifting power. | |
 | Quick and precise vehicle elevation. | |
 | Heavy-duty lifting in a durable design. | |
 | Robust 3-ton lifting capacity. | |
 | Top-notch hydraulic car lifting. |
Related Articles
Best iPad Holder For Car Backseat
Best Bluetooth Adapter For Car
How To Test Alternator With Screwdriver
Best Battery Charger For Car Fast Charger
Top 8 Best Car Jacks
In this section, we’ve compiled a list of the top 8 best car jacks. These jacks cover various needs, from compact and budget-friendly choices to heavy-duty options. We’ll delve into their standout features to help you find the best fit for your vehicle maintenance needs.
Pro-Lift F-767 Grey Car Jacks
Load Capacity: 2 tons
Maximum Lifting Height: 14 Inches
Brand: Pro-LifT
Color: Grey
Item Dimensions LxWxH: 17.91 x 5.32 x 8.47 inches
Amazon Rating: 4.4 Start Out of 5
About This Product: The Pro-Lift F-767 Grey Car Jack is a versatile tool, with an extra low profile that easily fits under vehicles, even in tight spaces. Its lifting range spans from 3-3/8 inches to 15 inches, accommodating various vehicle sizes and types.
Safety is a priority in its design. Built with solid steel construction, it ensures stability during lifting operations. The safety release valve allows precise control when lowering the vehicle, enhancing user confidence.
A patented bypass device prevents over-pumping, safeguarding against potential damage due to excessive pressure. This feature ensures controlled lifting, minimizing the risk of accidents during operation.
Additionally, the jack includes a built-in safety valve for overload protection, ensuring it stays within its capacity limits even under heavy loads. Its heavy-duty steel construction promises durability for prolonged use.
Blackhawk B6350 Black/Red Fast Lift Service Jack
Load Capacity: 3.5 tons
Maximum Lifting Height: 4 Inches
Brand: Blackhawk
Color: Red
Item Dimensions LxWxH: 28.5 x 13.75 x 6.5 inches
Amazon Rating: 4.6 Start Out of 5
About This Product: The Blackhawk B6350 Black/Red Fast Lift Service Jack offers a range of features for efficient and safe lifting operations. Its built-in internal safety valve and vent plug ensure secure usage, prioritizing user safety during lifting tasks.
With a swivel saddle diameter of 4 inches, this jack provides easy positioning while maintaining user safety. Its dimensions—28 1/2″ L x 13 3/4″ W x 6 1/2″ H—make it suitable for various vehicle types and sizes.
Boasting a 3.5-ton/7,000 lb. lift capacity, this jack provides robust lifting power. The rugged universal joint ensures precise load control, contributing to stable and controlled lifting operations.
Apart from garage use, this jack is versatile, making it suitable for outdoor activities like picnics or ball games. However, it’s essential to note that this hydraulic jack is designed for lifting purposes only and should not be used as a support once the load is lifted. Immediate support by appropriately rated jack stands is necessary after lifting.
Overall, the Blackhawk B6350 Black/Red Fast Lift Service Jack combines safety features, a substantial lift capacity, and versatile use, making it an ideal tool for various lifting needs.
BIG RED T91003B Torin Hydraulic Welded Bottle Jack
Load Capacity: 10 Ton
Maximum Lifting Height: 17.63 Inches
Brand: BIG RED
Color: Red
Item Dimensions LxWxH: 11.61 x 10.83 x 10.24 inches
Amazon Rating: 4.6 Start Out of 5
About This Product: The BIG RED T91003B Torin Hydraulic Welded Bottle Jack is an ideal choice for residential and commercial use. Its serrated, heat-treated saddle offers a secure grip and ample lifting area.
With a lifting range of 8-13/16″ to 17-5/8″ and a robust 10-ton (20,000 lb) capacity, it’s versatile for various lifting needs. The adjustable screw top extension adds to its adaptability.
Constructed from drop forged alloyed steel, this jack ensures quality and durability. Its inner/outer welded structure guarantees leak-free performance, offering reliability over time.
Featuring a glide-action pressure pump, lifting becomes effortless. The integrated oil-bypass and overload valve protect the hydraulic system from exceeding its limits, ensuring safety during operations.
Compliant with ASME PASE safety standards and backed by a limited 1-year manufacturer warranty, the BIG RED T91003B Torin Hydraulic Welded Bottle Jack stands as one of the best car jacks available for its quality, durability, and safety features.
Powerbuilt 3 Ton, Bottle Jack
Load Capacity: 3 ton
Maximum Lifting Height: 21 Inches
Brand: Powerbuilt
Color: Black
Item Dimensions LxWxH: 9.88 x 9.75 x 11.5 inches
Amazon Rating: 4.5 Start Out of 5
About This Product: The Powerbuilt 3 Ton Bottle Jack is a genius combination of a bottle jack and jack stand, providing both speed and convenience in one compact unit.
It lifts and secures your vehicle with ease. The built-in ratcheting safety bar ensures the jack stand remains locked in the raised position, offering added safety during use.
With a 3,000-pound capacity and a lift range of 11 to 21 inches, it’s tailored for SUVs, trucks, vans, and jeeps, catering to various vehicle types.
It’s not just for regular vehicles; its wide base provides stability, preventing sinking on softer surfaces, making it ideal for RVs, trailers, and off-road use.
Meeting or exceeding ANSI standards and backed by a 1-year factory warranty, this jack is built to last, ensuring reliability and safety for diverse vehicle lifting needs.
The Powerbuilt 3 Ton Bottle Jack is versatile, lifting and securely holding both unibody and body-on-frame vehicles. Its integrated jack stand and hydraulic bottle jack eliminate the need for separate stands, and the safety bar locks the unit at the desired height, enhancing its usability and safety features.
BIG RED T83006 Torin Hydraulic Best Car Jack
Load Capacity: 3 tons
Maximum Lifting Height: 20.88 Inches
Brand: BIG RED
Color: Red
Style: Steel Floor Jack
Amazon Rating: 4.3 Start Out of 5
About This Product: The BIG RED T83006 Torin Hydraulic Floor Jack is built from heavy-duty steel, ensuring long-term durability with an industrial finish.
It boasts a 3-ton (6,000 lb) capacity, offering a lifting range from 5-7/8″ to 20-7/8″, making it suitable for most cars, trucks, vans, and SUVs.
With (2) large steel casters and (2) 360-degree swivel casters, it’s designed for smooth maneuverability. Its extra-long saddle neck speeds up lifting for higher vehicles, while the handle measures 24.5 inches.
Featuring a single-piston quick lift pump, it effortlessly raises the jack to the desired height. The safety bypass system prevents overloading, ensuring safe operations at all times.
Equipped with rubber-tipped tongs, the BIG RED T83006 Torin Hydraulic Floor Jack offers a combination of durability, smooth maneuverability, quick lifting, and safety features, making it an ideal choice for various vehicle types and lifting needs.
Torin T83505W Black Best Car Jack
Load Capacity: 3 tons
Maximum Lifting Height: 18.07 Inches
Brand: Torin
Color: Black
Item Dimensions LxWxH: 25.2 x 13.5 x 6.9 inches
Amazon Rating: 4.3 Start Out of 5
About This Product: The Torin T83505W Black Racing Floor Jack is versatile, suitable for both general and specialty use, boasting a 3-ton (6,000 lb) capacity.
Constructed from durable, high-strength steel, it ensures reliability. The single piston quick lift pump simplifies height adjustments for swift lifting.
With a lifting range from 3-7/10″ to 18-7/100″, it facilitates easy access beneath low-profile vehicles, enhancing its versatility.
Featuring a foam bumper on the handle, this jack safeguards your vehicle from potential damage during lifting operations.
In essence, the Torin T83505W Black Racing Floor Jack offers durability, quick lifting capabilities, versatility for various vehicle types, and added protection for your vehicle, making it a solid choice for car enthusiasts and professionals alike.
Big Red At84007r Torin 4 Ton Best Car Jack
Load Capacity: 4 tons
Maximum Lifting Height: 20 Inches
Brand: BIG RED
Color: Red
Item Dimensions LxWxH: 7.9 x 15.8 x 31.2 inches
Amazon Rating: 4.6 Start Out of 5
About This Product: The Big Red AT84007R Torin 4-Ton Hydraulic Garage Floor Jack is a versatile tool for general or heavy-duty industrial use, with a robust 4-ton (8,000 lb) capacity.
Its dual-piston pump ensures rapid lifting, perfect for cars, trucks, and SUVs, lifting five times faster than single-pump models.
With a 4″ to 20″ lifting range, it easily reaches low-profile vehicles while offering stability with its wide stance.
Maneuverability is ensured with (2) large steel casters and (2) 360-degree swivel casters.
Safety features include an overload prevention system, meeting ASME safety standards, and backed by a 1-year limited manufacturer warranty.
In summary, the Big Red AT84007R Torin 4 Ton Hydraulic Garage Floor Jack offers rapid dual-piston lifting, a wide lifting range, stability, smooth maneuverability, and stringent safety features, making it an excellent choice for both heavy-duty industrial and general automotive use.
Vevor Air Jack, 3 Ton Best Car Jack
Load Capacity: 3 tons
Maximum Lifting Height: 400 Millimeters
Brand: VEVOR
Color: 3T Short Handle
Item Dimensions LxWxH: 10 x 20 x 5.3 inches
Amazon Rating: 4.6 Start Out of 5
About This Product: The Vevor Air Jack lifts 3 tons in just 5 seconds, with a range from 5.3″ to 15.75″ and works in temperatures from -60℃ to 50 ℃. Its steel construction and sealed airbags ensure durability and prevent leaks or scratches.
Operating this jack is straightforward: close the red valve, input compressed air via the green valve, turn off the green valve at the desired height, and bleed air by opening the red valve after use. A safety valve ensures controlled gas injection.
Designed for convenience, its handle offers better control, and its compact structure allows for easy storage and portability.
It’s perfect for single-wheel lifts in challenging terrains like sand or mud, catering to family cars, minivans, SUVs, and off-road vehicles.
How to Choose the Right Car Jack: Matching Your Needs
Selecting the best car jack is a crucial step in ensuring safe and efficient vehicle maintenance. To make an informed choice, consider the following factors:
1. Vehicle Weight and Size:
Determine your vehicle’s weight and size. This information is typically found in your vehicle’s owner’s manual or can be obtained from the manufacturer. You’ll need a car jack with a weight capacity that comfortably exceeds your vehicle’s weight.
2. Type of Vehicle:
Consider the type of vehicle you own. Compact cars may require different jacks than larger trucks or SUVs. Choose a jack that is designed to handle the weight and dimensions of your specific vehicle.
3. Intended Use:
Think about your maintenance and repair needs. If you’re performing routine tasks like tire changes, a smaller and more portable jack might suffice. For more extensive work, like undercarriage repairs, you may need a heavier-duty jack.
4. Safety Features:
Check for safety features such as a safety valve to prevent overloading or a locking mechanism to secure the vehicle while it’s lifted. Safety should always be a top priority.
5. Portability and Storage:
Consider how often you’ll be moving the jack. If you need to transport it frequently, a compact and lightweight design is ideal. Ensure it can be stored conveniently in your garage or trunk.
6. Material and Durability:
Look for car jacks made from high-quality materials, like steel, for durability. A more robust build can ensure longevity and safety.
7. Budget:
Set a budget that aligns with your needs and preferences. While high-end jacks offer advanced features, there are budget-friendly options that still provide excellent performance.
8. Reviews and Recommendations:
Read user reviews and seek recommendations from experienced users. Real-world feedback can be invaluable in making your decision.
By carefully assessing these factors, you can match the right car jack to your vehicle’s weight and size, ensuring that you have a safe and efficient tool for your maintenance and repair needs. It’s essential to choose a car jack that not only meets your requirements but also prioritizes safety and reliability.
How to Use a Car Jack: A Step-by-Step Guide
Using a car jack correctly is essential for your safety and the success of your vehicle maintenance tasks. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use a car jack effectively:
- Select a level, stable, and firm surface for jacking your vehicle, avoiding uneven or soft ground.
- Engage the parking brake before lifting your vehicle to prevent it from rolling.
- Place wheel chocks or blocks behind the wheels on the opposite side of the vehicle you’re lifting to ensure it won’t move while raised.
- Consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual to locate the recommended jack points along the vehicle’s frame or undercarriage.
- Position the jack securely under the designated jack point, ensuring it’s centered.
- Operate the jack as per its specific instructions, usually by pumping the handle or using a lever for a slow and steady lift.
- Immediately place the jack stands under the vehicle once it reaches the desired height to provide additional support and safety.
- Reverse the process for a controlled descent when lowering the vehicle from the jack.
- Carefully remove the jack from underneath the vehicle once it’s safely supported by the jack stands.
- With the vehicle securely lifted and supported, you can perform your maintenance or repair tasks.
- Double-check the stability and safety precautions before working underneath the vehicle, ensuring proper positioning of jack stands and wheel chocks.
- When your maintenance is complete, use the jack to slightly lift the vehicle, remove the jack stands, and lower the vehicle gently to the ground.
What Causes Car Jacks To Slowly Lower
Car jacks can slowly lower for various reasons, and it’s essential to understand these potential causes for safety and maintenance purposes. Here are some common factors that can lead to a car jack slowly lowering:
Leaking Hydraulic Fluid
Many car jacks, especially hydraulic jacks, rely on hydraulic fluid to maintain pressure and keep the vehicle lifted. If there is a leak in the hydraulic system, it can cause a gradual decrease in pressure, leading to a slow descent of the jack.
Worn Seals or O-rings
Over time, the seals or O-rings in the hydraulic system may degrade or develop small leaks. These components are crucial for maintaining pressure, and any damage or wear can result in the jack slowly lowering.
Air in the Hydraulic System
Air can enter the hydraulic system if there is a small leak or if the system isn’t properly bled during maintenance. It reduces the efficiency of the hydraulic system, causing the jack to lower slowly.
Overloading
Using a jack that doesn’t have the required weight capacity for your vehicle can strain the hydraulic system and lead to a slow descent. Overloading can damage the jack over time.
Lack of Maintenance
Regular maintenance is essential to keep a car jack in good working condition. Neglecting maintenance, such as failing to lubricate moving parts or check for wear and tear, can result in slow lowering.
Temperature Changes
Extreme temperature fluctuations can affect the viscosity of hydraulic fluids. Cold weather may cause the fluid to thicken, leading to slower operation, while hot weather can cause it to thin, potentially affecting the sealing properties.
Worn Pump or Piston Seal
If the pump or piston seal is damaged or worn, it can lead to fluid leakage and a slow descent of the jack.
Frequent Ask Questions
1. Why do people put wood on their car jacks?
Wood is often used as a protective measure when using car jacks. Placing a block of wood between the car’s frame and the jack helps distribute the load evenly and reduces the risk of damaging the vehicle’s undercarriage. It can also provide a more stable and secure contact point for the jack.
2. Where are car jacks stored on a car?
Car jacks are typically stored in the trunk or spare tire compartment of a vehicle. Some vehicles come with a designated space or storage area for the jack, usually accompanied by the lug wrench and spare tire. It’s essential to know where your car jack is stored in case of an emergency or when performing maintenance.
3. How much do car jacks cost?
The cost of car jacks can vary widely depending on the type, brand, and weight capacity. Simple scissor jacks may cost as little as $20 to $50, while high-quality hydraulic or floor jacks can range from $100 to $300 or more. The price you pay often reflects the jack’s durability, weight capacity, and features.
4. What are the best car jacks to buy?
The choice of the best car jack depends on your specific needs. Some popular and highly-rated car jacks include brands like Arcan, Craftsman, and Torin. Factors to consider when selecting the best car jack include your vehicle’s weight, the type of maintenance you plan to perform, and your budget. Refer to our article for recommendations on the top car jacks for various purposes.
5. How do car jacks work?
Car jacks work on the principle of hydraulic or mechanical force. Hydraulic jacks use a hydraulic fluid and piston system to lift the vehicle, while mechanical jacks (e.g., scissor jacks) use a mechanical screw or gear mechanism. When force is applied, the jack exerts pressure on the vehicle’s lifting points, raising it off the ground. Safety features, such as valves and locking mechanisms, ensure the jack holds the weight securely while in use, minimizing the risk of accidents. Always refer to the specific jack’s instructions for proper operation.
Conclusion
In summary, we’ve covered the top 8 best car jacks, how to choose the right one, and the proper steps for their safe use. The key takeaway is the importance of investing in a quality car jack to ensure both safety and convenience during vehicle maintenance and repair. Your car jack is not just a tool; it’s an essential component that safeguards your well-being and enhances the efficiency of your automotive tasks. Make a wise choice when selecting a car jack, as it’s an investment in the long-term performance and safety of your vehicle.
