Which car jack is best?
The best car jack for most drivers is a hydraulic floor jack with a 2–3 ton rating, used together with sturdy jack stands. A compact scissor jack can serve as a spare in the trunk, but is not ideal for routine lifting. This article breaks down options by use case so you can pick the right tool for your vehicle and workload.
What to consider when choosing a car jack
Choosing the right jack involves balancing capacity, lift height, stability, and ease of use. You want a tool that can safely lift your vehicle to a height where you can install jack stands, without sinking into soft ground or failing under load.
Core types of car jacks
Here are the main categories most households consider. Each type serves different needs and environments.
- Hydraulic floor jack (typical 2–3 ton, with 4–6 ton options for larger vehicles). Pros: fast lifting, stable, long-term use in a shop or garage. Cons: heavier to move, requires a level surface, can be awkward in tight spaces.
- Scissor jack (commonly around 2-ton). Pros: extremely portable and inexpensive; comes with many vehicles as a spare. Cons: slow to operate, less stable, not suitable for extensive maintenance.
- Bottle jack (often 6–12 ton). Pros: tall lifting capability in a compact footprint; good for quick lifts. Cons: taller when retracted, less stable during sustained lifting, not ideal for delicate positioning.
- Hi-lift jack (mechanical, off-road oriented). Pros: works on uneven surfaces and rocks; high lift range. Cons: can be dangerous if misused; requires skill and a solid base; not ideal for routine garage work.
- Electric/portable hydraulic jack (12V or battery-powered). Pros: convenient at the push of a button; can reduce manual effort. Cons: usually pricier; reliability varies by model; may need power or a charged battery.
These categories cover the spectrum from quick emergency lifts to full-fledged garage projects. For most ongoing needs, a hydraulic floor jack paired with jack stands remains the standard choice.
Best picks by use case
Before delving into specific choices, note that the right jack depends on vehicle size, storage space, and how often you lift. The following categories highlight common scenarios and what to choose for each.
Best overall for most drivers
Who it’s for: a single jack that handles most sedans, hatchbacks, and small SUVs with ease. What to look for: a hydraulic floor jack with a 2–3 ton rating, a low-profile body (6 inches or less retracted), a lift height up to at least 14–20 inches, and sturdy, wide wheels plus a long handle for ease of use. Why it works: fast, stable lifting for routine maintenance and tire changes; easy to maneuver in a home garage.
- Hydraulic floor jack, 2–3 ton capacity, low-profile design, lift range roughly 5–20 inches, with practical features like a long handle and rubber saddle.
For most home garages, this setup provides the best balance of performance, safety, and value.
Best compact emergency option
Who it’s for: drivers who want a spare that fits in a trunk or small storage area. What to look for: a scissor jack that’s light to carry and easy to position, with a clear lift chart and a secure fastener. Why it works: minimal space, quick deployment for simple tire changes or quick checks.
- Scissor jack, around 2 tons capacity, very compact footprint, easy to stow, but best used for emergency lifting and parking on solid ground.
Always pair a scissor jack with wheel chocks and, if possible, a small jack stand for added safety during any lift.
Best for SUVs and light trucks
Who it’s for: larger vehicles that demand higher lifting capability and reach. What to look for: a floor jack with a higher weight rating (3–5 ton), extended lift height, and a robust base to prevent tipping. Why it works: provides ample lifting range and stable footing for heavier loads during maintenance or tire work.
- Heavy-duty hydraulic floor jack, 3–5 ton capacity, extended lift height, reinforced frame for stability on larger vehicles.
Ensure you have matching jack stands and a solid workshop floor or mat to distribute load during use.
Best off-road / high-lift option
Who it’s for: adventurous drivers who encounter uneven terrain and need ground clearance in remote areas. What to look for: a hi-lift jack with a broad, sturdy base, clear safety instructions, and compatibility with winching or ground stabilizers. Why it works: can function on rocks, sand, mud, and other uneven surfaces where a conventional floor jack cannot reach.
- Hi-lift jack (mechanical), typically tall with adjustable raising height; uses leverage rather than hydraulics; requires a flat, stable base and proper technique for safety.
Note: Hi-lift jacks demand careful setup and should be used with proper training and in conjunction with vehicle-specific recovery gear to avoid injury.
Best electric / portable option
Who it’s for: users seeking convenience, particularly where manual pumping is a concern. What to look for: a reliable electric or portable hydraulic jack with a decent lifting speed, safety overload valve, and battery or power source integrity. Why it works: reduces effort, beneficial for repeated lifting tasks or for those who frequently service multiple vehicles.
- Electric portable hydraulic jack, battery-powered or 12V powered, built-in pump, typical capacities around 2–3 tons, with auto-stop safety features.
Keep spare power sources charged and be mindful of weather conditions that can affect battery performance in cold environments.
Safety and usage tips
Regardless of the jack you choose, always prioritize safety. Use a level, solid surface; chock wheels; never rely on the jack alone to support the vehicle; always use approved jack stands once the vehicle is lifted. Follow the vehicle’s OEM lifting points and never exceed the rated capacity of the jack. Read the user manual and practice proper positioning before attempting a lift.
Summary
For the majority of drivers, a hydraulic floor jack with a 2–3 ton capacity paired with jack stands offers the best blend of safety, speed, and versatility. A compact scissor jack is a reasonable trunk companion for emergencies, while larger SUVs and trucks benefit from higher-capacity floor jacks. Off-road enthusiasts should consider a hi-lift for uneven terrain, and those who value convenience may opt for an electric or portable hydraulic model. Always prioritize solid ground, proper points on the vehicle, and jack stands to ensure safe lifting and maintenance. Regularly inspect your jack for wear and keep its rated capacity in mind to avoid unsafe situations.
Should I get a 3-ton or 4-ton jack?
For most standard passenger vehicles, jack stands with a capacity of 2 to 3 tons are sufficient. However, for larger vehicles such as SUVs, trucks, or for commercial use, opting for stands with a higher capacity, like 4 to 6 tons, is recommended.
Do I need a 2-ton or 3-ton jack?
For small cars and sedans, a 2-ton jack will usually do the job. If you're working on a full-size sedan, crossover, or mid-size SUV, a 3-ton model is a better bet. Larger SUVs and trucks often need a 3-ton or even a 4-ton jack depending on their curb weight and lift points.
What is the best brand hydraulic jack?
Top 7 Hydraulic Jack Manufacturers Companies
- Zenith Hydromatic.
- Emerson Manufacturing.
- Hi-Force.
- Torin.
- Harbor Freight Tools.
- JET Tools.
- Omega Lift.
What is the best type of car jack?
In general, floor jacks and bottle jacks are ideal for in-garage repairs. The best option will really depend on your budget, the type of vehicle you're working on and the weight capacity of your car.
