Top 10 Best Car Jacks Buying Guide & Reviews - EcoDriving USA

Whether you drive a car or not, for sure you are familiar with best car jacks. This tool is a necessity to have in every garage. Have you ever used one? Seriously, I was so thankful that I have the best car jack stored at the trunk of my vehicle. It took me out of my misery, changing my flat tire within a busy highway.

Car jacks are not just a big help for changing tires on stressful situations, but it is a total need to keep you safe when trying to access parts of the car underneath. I have witnessed mechanics relying on and trusted car jacks to lift and hold the car body while they are lying under and do the fixing. At least it keeps the mechanics further from the bottom of the car. If by accident it abruptly descent, he would be out of risk.

Car jacks are manual tools for automotive use. It works by pumping the handle up to raise and down to lower the hydraulic device. Hence, it gives you convenience by lifting the car off the ground during repairs, inspection, and changing tires. In this article, I will introduce the best car jacks in the market along with a complete buying guide to help you find the best car jack there is!

Top 10 Best Car Jacks On the Market 2019 Reviews

1. Torin Big Red Steel Jack Stands

This Torin red steel jack stand has a 2-ton capacity to support your car. With the said capability, it can handle a variety of vehicles like small cars and even trucks. The lightweight jack stands have a double-locking pawl-and-tooth design. The construction is of high-grade forged steel material that has a welded frame that promises sturdiness. Trust that this tool guarantees to keep you safe while at work.

Torin Big Red Steel Jack Stands - Source: Amazon.com

Notice the large foot base size and the saddle surface area of the equipment that gives a better contact of the load while supporting it. However, the non-rubberized surface has a possibility of scratching upon contact. The reliable jacks can grip a CRV or Toyota Avalon without any difficulty. If you are curious about its lifting range, it can manage about 11.22” to 16.7” to give you an idea. Basing on this, you should know if it is suitable for the car you have.

The purchase includes a pair of these jacks and comes with a 1-year manufacturing warranty. These best car jack stands come in a box with a nylon tie to keep it in place. Moreover, if you are wondering if it can withstand long-term storage, YES, it definitely can!

2. Blackhawk B6350 Black/Red Fast Lift Service Jack

Blackhawk fast lifts service Jack has a sizeable 3.5-ton capacity and has a lifting range of at least 5.5” to 22” in maximum. An important note: Before you use this equipment, ensure to turn the release valves clockwise to the point that you feel the firm resistance. I want to emphasize that this best jack for cars mean to lift the vehicle or object only and is not appropriate for supporting. Hence, make sure to prepare a proper pair of sturdy jack stands to hold the load. Do this immediately right after lifting.

Blackhawk B6350 Black/Red Fast Lift Service Jack - Source: Amazon.com

The tool features an exceptional design of fast list technology so it can lift fast to the jacking point without a load. It also offers a removable swivel saddle that makes jack positioning quite easy and keeps you safe. With the stainless steel construction material, it guarantees durability for a long time but keeps in mind that it could be a bit heavy for you to carry. Check out also the bypass device that prevents any damages because of over-pumping and the built-in internal safety valve with a vent plug for assured safety. This means the valve is there for extra protection in case of overloading.

Lastly, your purchase comes with pre-filled oil and a full one-year warranty.

3. Neiko Pro 20272B Premium Low Profile Aluminum Floor Jack

Neiko Pro is a low profile aluminum floor jack that has a 3-ton capacity and a dual pump design. The construction of this best car floor jack is of durable industrial-grade aluminum alloy that promises a heavy-duty performance. Unbelievably, the design is utterly lightweight with just 57 pounds to carry. The tool features a dual plunger structure to make lifting faster and effective from 3 ¾” minimum to 19 1.4” height range.

Neiko Pro 20272B Premium Low Profile Aluminum Floor Jack - Source: Amazon.com

The equipment also has a safety valve to stop loading beyond its capacity. It certainly gives you a sense of security. Notice the rubber dotted saddle pad that protects your car frame and chassis from probable scratches and dents. These concerns are majors to all car owners. I also like the swivel rear casters that makes positioning easy underneath the car and the handles on each side for your carrying convenience.

I recommend this floor jack when changing tires and auto repair services, especially for sedans and SUVs. You may find this type of jack mostly in repair shops, but it is also practical to keep in your garage or your car trunk for trip emergencies. With this, you can even do the car repairs within the comfort of your home!

4. Powerzone 380044 3 Ton Aluminum and Steel Garage Jack

With a 3-ton capacity, Powerzone garage jack can lift at a minimum of 4” up to 18 ¼” maximum. Considering that it is the best car jack for home garage, it is lightweight because of its aluminum frame. The material lessens the equipment’s weight and makes it portable for you to bring it even outdoors. However, it is also equipped with a heavy-duty steel lift arm for more strength and robustness. It is steady and solid enough to be able to lift anything at home.

Powerzone 380044 3 Ton Aluminum and Steel Garage Jack - Source: Amazon.com

This quick lifting hydraulic system saves your time, and the safety valve is extra protection in case of overloading beyond the established capacity. I am delighted to see that it has a rubber-padded saddle as well. Then I will not worry about scratching my car frame at all. For stress-free positioning, the jack has steel rear wheels for easy swiveling. It provides smooth movement even on rough surfaces.

Even during storage, you can easily detach the handle so that it would fit in your car trunk with no problem. Lastly, the purchase of this high-quality garage jack comes already pre-filled with hydraulic fluid. It is pre-assembled and offers a 1-year warranty as well.

5. Powerbuilt Alltrade 640912 Black 3 Ton, All-in-One Bottle Jack

This all-in-one bottle jack has a 3-ton capacity. Powerbuilt Alltrade design combines both jack stand and bottle jack in one component. With the safety bar units at the desired height, I recommend this best roadside car jack for trucks and all off-road type vehicles. This handy equipment quickly lifts and holds regular and unibody cars and trucks safely. It features a full steel base that guarantees stability under load and a heavy-duty safety bar that keeps the jack from lowering after rising to its maximum height.

Powerbuilt Alltrade 640912 Black 3 Ton, All-in-One Bottle Jack - Source: Amazon.com

Height range for this jack is from 11” to 21”. However, by default, the lift range is 11” to 17.25” and can only reach to 21” when you do it manually. This jack practically offers all you need in the shop or at the comfort of your home. This jack is suitable for vehicles, construction sites, framing, and floor joist jobs. The versatile design comes with a handle to jack it up and you should always remember to tighten the screw cap down before using to prevent oil from leaking.

The all-in-one bottle jack can move about ¼” left and right but mostly this is just stationary and is a manual hydraulic design. However, there are no rubber covers, so you need a bit more careful not to create dents and scratches during the process.

6. Black Bull EJ212 12 Volt Fully Automatic Electric Car Jack

Are you looking for the best compact car jack? This fully automatic electric car jack from Black Bull is so small that it is ideal to be a regular item in your car’s trunk ready for emergencies, especially when you need to change your tires. Imagine yourself working to do it using a manual jack in a bustling highway, and you will be motivated to buy an automatic tool like this one. The machine can support 2000 pounds load capacity with a 5” to 14” lifting height.

Black Bull EJ212 12 Volt Fully Automatic Electric Car Jack - Source: Amazon.com

The 100% automatic equipment has 12 volts dc power that you can plug into your car’s outlet. With it is a push-button controller and a 12-foot cord. Anytime your tire needs more air, plug it into your vehicle’s cigarette lighter outlet and turn the power on. The whole jack is lightweight (11 lbs.), so it would not be difficult for you to carry it from and into your car trunk.

The entire equipment comes in a compact and durable plastic case. Therefore, you can safely store it in your car storage until the need arises. I recommend this product for teens, seniors, and people with disabilities because of its obvious convenience.

7. Capacity Low Profile Service Jack

Performance Tool’s low profile service jack can withstand a 3.5-ton load capacity and has a lift range of 4” to 20 ½”. The dual pump equipment features metal swivel caster wheels at the back to make the movement and locomotion easy and smooth. You can maneuver and position it quickly as you please during work time. It also presents a robust flanged steel frame that is extra-long to guarantee maximum stability and safety. The 1” diameter saddle pad has a rubber cushion to prevent probable scratches to your car’s surface.

Capacity Low Profile Service Jack - Source: Amazon.com

Also, it offers a bypass valve for extra protection and security. The best small car jack is suitable for small models and light trucks. The low profile design allows you to work comfortably under almost any vehicle to lift. Since it is a small jack, it is excellent for sedan type vehicles. Although it does not come with a case, the size is tiny enough store it in your car trunk or your garage storage area. Besides weighing an average of just 20 lbs., it is easier to keep it since the jack has two saddles that are 100% removable. Indeed, this is the best car jack for the money. Check it out for yourself!

8. JEGS 80006 4000lb Low-Profile Aluminum Floor Jack Garage Car Truck

JEGS floor jack is another low-profile equipment that is a necessity in your garage for your car and trucks. It has a 2-ton load capacity and a lifting height of 3 ½” minimum up to a maximum of 19 ¼”. The lightweight, portable jack that weighs 49 pounds meets ASME PALD 2014 standard features such as aluminum construction materials and saddle that rotates 360 degrees. I like the 50” two-piece handle with sleeves that can protect the vehicle while in use and the knurled grip that reduces slippage. Both features focus on safety during work.

JEGS 80006 4000lb Low-Profile Aluminum Floor Jack Garage Car Truck - Source: Amazon.com

Notice that the tool’s dual side handles makes your maneuvering easy and comfortable in positioning the jack. The lift pad also has a rubber pad that can prevent marring your car’s surface when in use. Aside from that, the robust jack has metal wheels that make the movement smooth and is an advantage for a very well performance. Like some of the brands, this single piston floor jack does not come with a case, but the good news is the entire equipment is easy to assemble and dismantle if needed. You can easily carry it along and store wherever you want it to be.

9. Torin Big Red Hydraulic Trolley Floor Jack

Torin, as a trusted brand offers the big red hydraulic trolley floor jack that can withstand a 3-ton lifting capacity. The best car jack for SUV has an extra-long removable neck to save time and makes it easier to lift higher vehicles. To give you an idea about the height, when the long neck is attached and with the jack down, the height is approximately 9”. Please take note that the higher the neck, the more dangerous it can be because the jack becomes less stable. Hence, you may put jack wheels on board for extra protection.

Torin Big Red Hydraulic Trolley Floor Jack - Source: Amazon.com

With a lifting range of 5 7/8” to 17 ¼,” this heavy-duty floor jack features a 360-degree swivel caster for convenience and easy mobility. Unfortunately, this jack does not come with a storage case, but it is portable enough and easy to find a place to store. Besides, you can remove the height extension that makes it suitable for SUV, convert it to a regular car jack which is appropriate to use for changing flat tires. Did you notice the ring on the side? It holds the extension when you are not using it.

This well-built steel hydraulic floor jack guarantees high performance.

10. Torin Big Red Steel Scissor Jack

Another Torin product. This time, a big red steel scissor jack can withstand 1.5-ton lift capacity. The compact steel scissor jack design can be a rough replacement or functions as an extra utility jack. You can easily store the entire equipment into your car’s trunk because of its small size. Recommended as the best portable jack, its lift ranges from 4 1/8” to 15 1/8” and has an oversized 4 ½” base width that offers an all-out support and steadiness. The extra-wide base makes positioning easy and convenient at work. Aside from that, it makes sure a safe footing. The construction material is of rugged alloyed steel that creates a heavy-duty steel frame and saddle.

Torin Big Red Steel Scissor Jack - Source: Amazon.com

The corrosion-resistant material withstands high pressure. It also has folding handles that bring on-the-spot quick response and speed whenever you need it. The convenient ratchet handles and the smooth running spindle makes changing tires a child’s play that relieves you from a stressful situation. This product is factory-tested for reliability to qualify for the ASME standards. Perfect for automotive repairs, the scissor jack is quick and easy in adjusting heights depending on your vehicle. The package offers a limited one-year manufacturer warranty upon purchase.

What to look for in a car jack?

Though terrifying it may seems, I still witness mechanics who are willing to crawl under the car without using any car jack. This is true, especially for those that give services during emergency calls when someone does not know how to change flat tires, and he/she is stuck in traffic. Seriously, investing for a handy jack is worth because of your safety. Let me help you choose the right car jack for you. Learn what to look for when buying one.

Weight Rating:

Do you know that the usual way of rating hydraulic jacks is in tonnage? Various types of cars like the economy, mid-sized, compact, sub-compact vehicles can be easily lifted with the help of a 2-ton hydraulic car jack. Jacks that have higher lifting capacity are suitable for trucks, SUVs expensive cars, and vans. Therefore, you need to know the weight of your vehicle and find out by asking professionals on the appropriate car jacks that can withstand the weight. Most car manuals mention it though so try to read the information.

Height of lifting pad:

Of course, you need to place the car jack underneath your car at a certain point for lifting. Understanding this, the height of the lifting pad must be higher than the ground clearance of your vehicle. If not, it is impossible for you to put the jack under. Take note that lifting pad should have a minimum of an inch allowance from the lifting point of the automobile.

Build Quality:

In general, the overall build quality of the car jack is vital in your decision when searching for the best car jack to buy. At all times, I prefer jacks that have durable construction materials. Metal jacks that are robust and sturdy are always the first pick. I do have lightweight jacks in my car trunk, but that is just for emergencies when I am desperate and need to change my car tires in a remote area.

However, I recommend heavyweight car jacks since the said quality gives you safety and stability while at work. I suggest reading customer feedback about different products. Look for the best car jack reviews online to help you understand better.

Types of Car Jacks

Learning the different types of car jacks is essential in finding your own. Each type has its application and preferred type of vehicle. Try to see what kind of carjack you need. Here are the four models that I know you can find in any auto shop.

Scissor Jack:

Scissor jacks usually are the kind that you will find as a free inclusion when buying a brand new car. Car manufacturers always make it a point to include in the purchase package some safety and emergency equipment your car needs. Scissor jacks purposely match on the type of car you have; otherwise, it will not fit. The tool is convenient and can fit in your car storage compartment.Check this video and understand how a scissor jack works.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QeB2YxMqogI

Floor Jack

This type of jack is what most mechanics carry around. Found to be more common in use at auto repair shops, this works well when changing tires, home repairs, and other maintenance jobs. It uses a hydraulic pressure process when lifting hefty loads without any difficulty. The jack has four wheels, one in each corner, to make it easier to place and move under the vehicle. It also has a long handle that looks like a lever so you can maneuver the lift device.

Floor jacks are available in various weight capacities, so make sure that what you buy can withstand the overall weight of your car. The tip here is to choose one that can support a weight heavier than your vehicle. Although this is a beneficial type of car jack, it is cumbersome and hard to bring around. If it so happens you are not familiar with how it works, check out this video, and help yourself.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-KXaIXTavdA

Bottle Jack

Just like bottles, the bottle jack is a cylinder-shaped mechanism that uses a lever to pump and generate pressure in the bottle jack. It functions similar to floor jacks, but it is more compressed and does not have any caster wheels. Just like the scissor jack, the steadiness of a bottle jack is dependent on the type of surface you are working on. Are you curious about how a bottle jack works? Watch this video to help you understand better.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VegJze-0Ijw

Hi-lift Jack

Hi-lift jacks work on individual cases. Its design means to lift off-road vehicles with or without raised chassis. It manages to lift automobiles that are 5’ in height. This type of equipment rating is at 7000 lbs. in raising capability. Notice that the equipment is particularly long, the shortest of which is about 3 feet in length. You should know by now that a hi-lift jack requires more significant storage space and it is impossible to place it inside your car. Watch this video for a demonstration on how it works:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xPLrHw2At7s

How to use a floor jack safely?

Whatever you do with your car, especially when you are trying to fix it, always keep in mind that your safety must be your priority. Using floor jacks is not an exemption. Do you want to know how to operate a floor jack the right way? Here are some tips to keep you safe!

• Making sure to check the condition of your floor jack is necessary. Establish a check-up routine of your equipment to ensure that it will function safely when in use. Using a damaged floor jack will increase the risk of accidents.
• Floor jacks have an established maximum lifting capacity. It is wise not to put a load more than it can withstand.
• You will get the quality of what you paid for. I suggest choosing a floor jack that is practical and is decent enough for its cost. Too cheap would mean less reliability.
• Take note that working in a plane of flat, firm and even ground is advisable when you intend to use a floor jack. Before trying to use it, the car must be in a park position with its hand brake fully engaged.
• Do not forget to place a wheel block on the wheel opposite to the one you are fixing. This means putting the wheel chock on the left wheel when you are working on the right one. You should avoid accidental rolling.
• Jack stands are there to support the weight of the car while you are underneath fixing something. If the floor jack gives way, at least the positions will prevent the vehicle from falling.
• Learn to identify the right lifting points of your car when using floor jacks. The lifting points should be in your car’s manual.
• Double-check the steadiness of your floor jack before using it.
• When you are finished with your work or repair, remember to keep yourself safe first and must no longer be under the car before starting to lower the jack.

Best Car Jack FAQ

What is a car jack?

Car jacks are equipment that you use to lift vehicles or any heavy objects. You can place this device under the chassis of your car and has a mechanical procedure to do the lifting. Because of car jacks, you can raise the vehicle above a few feet from the ground so you can work on what you need to repair. This gives you the convenience of operating under the car.

How much is a car jack?

Regardless of the type of car jack, the price should be an average of $ 150. Of course, the price differs because of features, materials, and manufacturing brands.

Where to buy a car jack?

Car jacks can be found at your nearest car accessory, parts, and repair equipment shops. I like shopping directly to these shops since I can see the actual product and can ask the experts for concerns. However, buying online nowadays are trending. Online buying is convenient for people who do not have the time to shop hop. I advise reading the customer ratings and reviews to learn more about the condition and quality of the product.

How does a car jack work?

Carjacks work depends on the type. As I have mentioned earlier, there are four types of car jacks, namely floor jacks, bottle jacks, scissor jacks, and hi-lift jack. Refer to the video above on how each works. In general, each one has its operating procedure to be able to lift the car a few inches from the ground. However, I choose a floor jack to show you how it works as a demo:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4-xznEjI28g

How to jack up a car?

Let me give you systematic instructions on how to jack up a car:

• First, always take precautions by checking the condition of the jack.
• Put the car in a park position on a flat and firm surface.
• Make sure to chock the wheels to keep it in place.
• Engage the parking brake.
• Find the location of the jack point.
• Put in place the jack under the jack point.
• Raise the jack according to the procedure.
• Start lifting the vehicle off the ground.
• Do not forget to use jack stands for extra protection.
• Lower the jack back down when finished.

Watch this video for a short demo:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3UpyixFMaH4

How to change a tire?

Now, this is a challenge every vehicle driver needs to learn. When you got flat tires when traveling alone, you will appreciate the fact that you know how to change a tire. Otherwise, you will stay there forever or until someone rescues you. How to change a tire?Enjoy the video below!https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AT_pPlJTiyE

How to use a car jack?

I would say that you are indeed a driver when besides your driving skills, you also know how to use a car jack and change the tires when the situation calls for it. Being familiar with the right car jack you have and use it correctly is a significant advantage.You need to learn how!https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6N7DMrMEFxo

Conclusion

You drive your car every day. However, are you ready when along the way, you found out you got flat tires? Are you prepared to face such situations? I am glad that I was able to share with you ideas on how to use a car jack and how to change tires as well. The two skills are a need when you are a driver.

Hence, choosing the best car jack to equip your car and garage is vital. Having a best car jack ready in your car trunk will save you anytime during emergencies. Having a much more durable one in-store at your garage is much more beneficial. All the car jacks that I have included in my reviews are winners. One of them may be your choice. Regardless of what you choose, all of them are a guarantee to be the best. Do you already have one in mind?

Source: Ecodrivingusa.com