Floor Jack Buying Guide
A quality hydraulic floor jack is indispensable for tyre changes, brake work, oil changes and any under-car maintenance. The problem is that the wrong jack wastes money, damages your vehicle, or simply won't fit under it. Here's how to choose correctly.
Capacity: How Much Do You Actually Need?
Jack capacity must exceed the weight of the heaviest corner of your vehicle — not the full vehicle weight.
- 2-ton floor jack: Suits most passenger cars and small SUVs (vehicles up to ~2,000kg)
- 3-ton floor jack: Covers larger SUVs, light trucks and vans
- Trucks and heavy vehicles: 5-ton or above — look at our heavy-duty range
A 2-ton jack is fine for a standard family hatchback or sedan. Always buy slightly above your needs — a 3-ton jack costs only marginally more and gives headroom if you ever work on a heavier vehicle.
Low Profile vs Standard Profile
The minimum height (closed position) determines whether the jack slides under your vehicle at all. Sports cars and lowered vehicles can have ground clearance as low as 90mm. A standard floor jack at 120–140mm minimum won't fit.
- Standard profile: 130–165mm minimum height — fits most standard-height vehicles
- Low profile: 85–120mm minimum — required for sports cars, modified vehicles, performance SUVs
Lift Height
Maximum lift height matters too. Most floor jacks lift to 480–520mm. For large 4x4s and lifted trucks, you may need 600mm+ maximum height to change a tyre with full wheel travel. Check your vehicle's jack points and the jack's max height before buying.
Steel vs Aluminium Jack
Steel jacks are heavier (15–25kg) but more durable and less expensive. Aluminium racing jacks weigh 7–12kg — much easier to carry to track days and in/out of vehicle boots. For home garage use, steel is better value. For mobile use, the weight saving justifies the cost.
FAQ
Do I need jack stands as well?
Yes, absolutely. A hydraulic jack is for lifting only. Always lower the vehicle onto axle stands before going under it. A jack can fail — a stand will not.
How do I find the jack points on my car?
Your owner's manual marks the designated jack points. These are reinforced areas on the chassis designed to take the load. Using any other point can bend bodywork or damage the sill.
