Types of Car Lifts

Investing in a high-quality car lift for garage can change the way you work on vehicles and maximize your space. These essential tools allow you to safely and efficiently raise vehicles off the ground, providing easy access to the undercarriage for maintenance, repairs, and storage. 

But with so many different types of car lifts for home garages, which best suits your needs? You’ve come to the right place. Use the chart below to get a better sense of your options and which makes the most sense for your space and the type of work you do.

My Garage Supplies carries single-post car lifts, 2-post car lifts, 4-post car lifts, and car scissor lifts from the industry’s most trusted brands. Learn more about key features and benefits of each type below, or reach out now for a personalized recommendation from our experts!

Different Types of Car Lifts for Home Garages

Let’s take a closer look at all the different types of car lifts you have at your fingertips. One style is not inherently better than the other - all the different car lift types have their pros and cons. You may even find your garage needs different styles for different jobs!

Single-Post Lifts

Single-post lifts are an excellent choice for garage owners who need a space-saving and versatile solution for lifting smaller vehicles, such as motorcycles, ATVs, and lawn mowers. These car lift types have a single column design that takes up minimal floor space so you can maximize your garage's layout and efficiency.

Key features of single-post lifts:

• Compact footprint: Single-post lifts have a narrow profile for garages with limited space.
• Adjustable lifting height: Most single-post lifts offer multiple locking positions so you can raise vehicles to the desired height for easy access and storage.
• Durable construction: Our single-post lifts are built with high-quality materials and undergo rigorous testing for reliability and longevity.

Advantages of single-post lifts:

1. Space-saving design: Single-post lifts use vertical space, in turn freeing up valuable floor space in your garage for you to store more vehicles or equipment.
2. Versatility: Single-post lifts accommodate a wide range of small vehicles, from motorcycles to riding mowers. They’re one of the most flexible car lift types.
3. Affordability: Compared to larger, more complex types of car lifts, single-post lifts are often more budget-friendly. This is a great first lift for your shop.

Best suited for:

• Motorcycles
• ATVs and UTVs
• Lawn mowers and zero-turn mowers
• Golf carts

Top picks from My Garage Supplies:

1. iDeal SC-2K-UTV-X Single Column UTV & Mower Storage/Service Lift: This innovative 2,000 lb. capacity lift features a multi-adjustable platform design with multi-directional loading, making it perfect for ATVs, UTVs, golf carts, and riding mowers.
2. Kernel 2000Lb ATV Single Post Storage Lift: This lift creates floor space by allowing you to lift your ATV, motorcycle, or riding lawn mower up and out of the way when not in use.
3. AS-7261 Single post Lawnmower / Quad Bike / Motorcycle Storage Lift: With a lifting capacity of 700kg and a platform that can be removed for easy underside access, this lift is ideal for storing and maintaining your small vehicles 

2 Post Lifts

2 post lifts are a popular choice among garage owners due to their sturdiness, reliability, and ability to accommodate most vehicles. These types of car lifts have two columns extending vertically from the ground, with lifting arms that engage the vehicle's frame or lifting points.

Key features of 2 post lifts:

• Robust construction: 2 post lifts are engineered with heavy-duty materials, such as high-grade steel, for stability and long-lasting performance.
• Adjustable lifting arms: The lifting arms on these types of car lifts can be adjusted to fit a wide range of vehicles, from compact cars to full-size trucks.
• Safety locks: Our 2 post lifts have automatic safety locks that engage at multiple points during the lifting process, for extra security and peace of mind.

Advantages of 2 post lifts:

1. Sturdy and reliable: With their strong, durable construction, 2 post lifts can handle the weight of most vehicles, ensuring a stable and secure lifting experience.
2. Ideal for most vehicles: 2 post lifts are versatile and can accommodate a wide range of vehicles, making them a go-to choice for many garage owners.
3. Efficient use of space: Compared to 4 post lifts, 2 post lifts have a smaller footprint, allowing you to maximize your garage space while still providing ample room to work on vehicles.

Considerations:

• Floor space: Ensure that you have sufficient floor space to accommodate the width and depth of the 2 post lift, as well as room for vehicle entry and exit.
• Ceiling height: Check that your garage ceiling is high enough to allow for the full lifting height of the 2 post lift, taking into account the height of your tallest vehicle.
• Weight capacity: Choose a 2 post lift with a weight capacity that exceeds the heaviest vehicle you plan to lift to ensure safe and reliable operation.

Recommended models from My Garage Supplies:

1. Bendpak XPR-10AS 10,000 LB 2 Post Lift: This ALI Certified lift features an asymmetric design that allows for more door opening clearance and interior car access, making it perfect for garages with limited space.
2. Challenger CL10V3 10,000 lb. Versymmetric 2 Post Lift: With its Versymmetric technology, this lift offers the benefits of both symmetric and asymmetric designs, providing flexibility and ease of use.

4 Post Lifts

4 post car lifts are the ultimate solution for garage owners who require maximum stability, ease of use, and storage options. These car lift types feature four columns that extend vertically from the ground, with a flat platform that supports the vehicle's tires.

Key features of 4 post lifts:

• Solid construction: 4 post lifts are built with heavy-duty materials and reinforced designs for maximum stability and durability.
• Drive-on convenience: Vehicles can be easily driven onto the lift's platform, eliminating the need for precise positioning or lifting arm adjustments.
• Versatile storage options: Many of these types of car lifts come with additional storage accessories, such as jack trays and caster kits, allowing you to store tools and equipment beneath the lifted vehicle.

Advantages of 4 post lifts:

1. Maximum stability: With four columns providing support, they car lift types are super stable, making them the safe choice for heavy-duty vehicles and long-term storage.
2. Ease of use: The drive-on design makes loading/unloading vehicles simple, saving time and effort.
3. Enhanced storage options: Using the space beneath the lifted vehicle helps you maximize your garage storage capacity.

Perfect for:

• Heavy-duty vehicles, such as full-size trucks and SUVs
• Long-term vehicle storage
• Wheel service and detailing
• Storing tools and equipment beneath the lifted vehicle

Featured products from My Garage Supplies:

1. Bendpak HDS-14LSX 14,000 LB 4 Post Lift: This lift offers a generous lifting capacity, extended length, and a single-piece runway for easy vehicle loading and unloading.
2. Challenger 4015XFX 15,000 lb. Capacity 4 Post Lift: With its expandable top beam and adjustable runway widths, this lift can accommodate a wide range of vehicles, from compact cars to full-size trucks.

Scissor Lifts

Scissor lifts for cars are ideal for garage owners with limited ceiling height or those who need a portable, low-profile solution. These types of car lifts use a scissor-like mechanism to raise vehicles, with the lifting platform remaining parallel to the ground throughout the lifting process.

Key features of scissor lifts:

• Low-profile design: Scissor lifts have a minimal height when fully lowered, perfect for garages with low ceilings or limited overhead space.
• Portable and flexible: Many scissor lifts come with casters or wheels, allowing you to easily move them around your garage or even use them outdoors.
• Compact footprint: Scissor lifts take up less floor space compared to other types of lifts, making them suitable for smaller garages or workshops.

Advantages of scissor lifts:

1. Ideal for low-ceiling garages: The low-profile design of scissor lifts makes them perfect for garages with limited overhead clearance.
2. Portable and adaptable: With their wheeled designs, scissor lifts can be easily moved to different locations, providing flexibility in your garage layout.
3. Space-saving solution: Scissor lifts have a compact footprint, allowing you to maximize your garage space while still enjoying the benefits of a vehicle lift.

Ideal for:

• Quick repairs and maintenance tasks
• Tire changes and wheel service
• Vehicle detailing and cleaning
• Garages with limited ceiling height

Top-selling scissor lifts at My Garage Supplies:

1. Dannmar DM-6 6,000 LB Mid Rise Scissor Lift: This lift features a compact design, making it perfect for smaller garages or workshops, while still providing a generous 6,000 lb. lifting capacity.
2. Tuxedo TP9KAC-D 9,000 LB Portable Scissor Lift: With its air-over-hydraulic design and portability, this lift is perfect for both indoor and outdoor use, providing versatility and convenience.

Which of the Car Lift Types is Right For Your Garage?

Now that you know all about the different types of car lifts, it’s just a matter of figuring out which best suits your needs. Here are some tips on choosing the best car lifts for home garages or commercial shops. 

Vehicle Weight and Dimensions

Car lift weight capacity cannot be taken lightly. It must exceed the heaviest vehicle you intend to lift for safety and reliability purposes. The same goes for the length and width of your vehicles - you have to be sure that the lift's platform or lifting arms can accommodate them. 

Measure your longest and widest vehicle, and compare those dimensions to the specifications of the lifts you're considering to avoid purchasing a lift that is too small or inadequate for your needs.

Available Garage Space and Ceiling Height

Your garage's available space and ceiling height will play a significant role in determining the type and size of lift you can accommodate. Before making a purchase, measure your garage's dimensions, including the length, width, and ceiling height.

2-post and 4-post lifts need sufficient floor space to accommodate the lift's footprint. You’ll also need room for vehicle entry and exit. Take note of any obstacles, such as support columns or storage shelves, that could get in the way of the lift's installation or operation.

Factor in the height of your tallest vehicle when raised on the lift as well to confirm there’s plenty of clearance between the lifted vehicle and the ceiling. This will support comfortable working conditions and prevent any damage to your vehicle or garage.

A scissor lift may be the best option for those with limited ceiling height, as they have a low-profile design and don’t need a ton of overhead clearance. Our blog has more tips on the 2-post car lift space requirements if you’d like to learn more, along with a guide to navigating car lift installation requirements in general. 

Intended Use and Frequency

If you're a professional mechanic or operate a busy garage, you'll likely need a heavy-duty lift with a higher weight capacity and more advanced features. In this case, a 2-post or 4-post lift may be the best choice, as they offer superior stability and durability.

On the other hand, a single-post lift or scissor lift may be just fine for occasional home garage use or lighter-duty tasks, such as motorcycle maintenance or tire changes. They’re typically more affordable and have a smaller footprint for garages with limited space. 

Budget and Long-Term Value

A car lift is an investment in your garage, and it should be looked at as such. Do not cut corners just to save some money. A lower-priced lift may be tempting, but it won’t provide the same durability, reliability, or features as a higher-quality model. You get what you pay for!

Investing in a well-constructed, feature-rich lift from a reputable manufacturer can provide years of trouble-free service and a better overall value in the long run. Consider the cost of maintenance, repairs, and potential downtime when evaluating the long-term value of a lift.

Safety Features and Certifications

Safety should be your top priority when selecting a garage lift. Look for lifts that come equipped with essential safety features, such as automatic safety locks, redundant safety systems, and overload protection. These features help prevent accidents and ensure that the lift remains secure and stable during operation.

Additionally, choose a lift that has been certified by a recognized authority, such as the Automotive Lift Institute (ALI). This guarantees the lift has been independently tested and meets strict safety and performance standards.

Wrapping Up Our Guide to the Different Types of Car Lifts

We hope this car lift types overview has left you with total clarity on which best suits your needs, be it a bustling commercial auto repair shop or a home garage you’re trying to outfit. 

Our blog has more resources on Bendpak vs Atlas lifts, 2-post vs 4-post lifts, and symmetric vs asymmetric lifts. Remember, all the different types of car lifts are just a few clicks away at My Garage Supplies.

You’ll gain access to the best car lift brands in the industry at unbeatable prices, with hassle-free financing and world-class customer service along the way. Get in touch today for one-on-one support - we’ll talk it out and help you choose the perfect type of lift for your garage!