A car jack is a simple and straightforward device. It performs a single task: it lifts the car so that the driver or mechanic can change or repair a flat tire. And since a breakdown can happen anywhere, it’s definitely worth carrying the device with you in the trunk. Compact models for passenger cars take up minimal space and are easy to use.
But only a properly selected unit will be truly useful. Which jack is best to buy for a passenger car? Which one is suitable for crossover and SUV? And what parameters should you pay attention to when choosing? Let's look into these issues in the FAN .
How to choose a jack
To be able to choose a lifting mechanism for your car yourself, you need to go through several steps, paying attention to the key points and ignoring minor details.
Load capacity
Each model is designed to work with a load of a certain weight, therefore it is impossible to exceed the value specified in the model description under any circumstances.
Violation of this condition can lead not only to equipment failure, but also to damage to the vehicle.
That is why the first rule when buying: correct calculation of the actual weight of the car (you need to take into account the weight with cargo in the trunk: spare wheel, tools, fire extinguisher, etc.).
Lifting height
This characteristic indicates the maximum height to which the machine can be raised. Most models and product lines are designed, on average, for 30-50 cm.
This value is quite enough to replace a failed wheel, or to gain access to the handbrake cable. Some types of mechanisms make it possible to lift a load to a height of about 100 centimeters.
These mechanisms are mainly used in a fairly narrow area: in competitions in the wild, when it is necessary to lift massive structures in construction.
Pickup height
This expression denotes a parameter that indicates the distance between the ground and the bottom of the car. The pickup size, depending on the model, is 6-25 cm.
Here you should take into account the vehicle's ground clearance - what motorists call ground clearance.
The easiest way to choose a lifting device is if you have an SUV or a car with increased ground clearance, since any type of jack is suitable for this vehicle.
The most difficult task faces owners of cars whose ground clearance is less than 15 cm, since it is quite difficult to choose a lifting mechanism for them.
Some models have such a characteristic as the working stroke of the jack. This distance from the pick-up point to the maximum lift height is the height at which you can work.
The wider the height range, the more functional the mechanism. It can be used for more cars.
type of drive
Lifting mechanisms have another important difference: they are activated in different ways.
Mechanics
Lifting is carried out by applying force to the handle. These devices are suitable for infrequent use, such as changing a tire on the road.
This is a fairly inexpensive option, suitable for passenger cars. Using them in a workshop or garage is ineffective.
Hydraulics
It is activated in a manner similar to the previous type, but the user will have to apply less effort. The load rises under the pressure created by the working fluid, which pushes out the plunger with a fixed load.
Pneumatics
These mechanisms operate on compressed air. In workshops, pneumatic networks are used; an automobile exhaust pipe or a gas cylinder should be connected to the “field.”
The chamber, filling with air, expands, lifting the car like an air cushion. Minimal effort required. Such devices lead to a reduction in labor costs and a rapid rise.
Having approached this stage, you need to understand how often the device will be used. If you decide to buy a jack “just in case,” there is no point in using expensive hydraulic devices, since it will not be possible to use the full potential of the mechanism.
If you have a workshop, choose pneumatics or hydraulics - this increases the speed of maintenance while making the work easier.
Mechanism brand
There is an opinion that you should only buy branded products.
The most important thing that you can count on in this case is full compliance of the parameters specified in the accompanying documents with those that the mechanism will show in reality.
Manufacturers who care about their image are required to carry out the necessary tests, so you can be sure that if a load capacity of 2 tons is indicated, this is exactly how much the jack will lift.
Equally important is the high quality of the materials from which it is made. All parts of the device fit perfectly, all connections are securely fixed.
Branded mechanisms show excellent results, they are not subject to rust, their movement is smooth, and they do not bend under heavy loads.
Unnamed models or unknown brands, according to practice, fail quite quickly - often after the first use.
Experienced motorists do not recommend repairing these models, as this can lead to tragic consequences. It is better to buy a new device from a trusted manufacturer to be sure of its quality.
Companies guarantee 1-3 years of proper operation - another argument in favor of reputable manufacturers.
When choosing a jack, it is very important to consider each of the steps. At the same time, you need to know that indicators such as the make of the car, the country of origin of the jack, or, moreover, the color of the mechanism, have no role when choosing a model of a lifting device.
The weight and dimensions of the structure are of some importance, since not every model can be placed in a passenger car. However, this is not the most significant characteristic of the mechanism.
To be fully prepared when choosing a jack, you should familiarize yourself with the best models of each type.
The best rolling jack
Hydraulic rolling jack MATRIX MASTER 51028 .
Rolling devices are in high demand, and for good reason: they are easy to operate, they are compact, and convenient to store thanks to the case included in the kit. All this applies to this type of jack with hydraulics. Best suited for lifting passenger cars.
The model is equipped with a valve that protects the device from overload. Excellent not only for a private garage, but also for work in auto repair shops.
The size of the lever allows you to apply a minimum of effort. The model has a rigid frame, thanks to which the device can withstand high loads.
The jack is supplied with a plastic case in which it is convenient to store the device. There is a PRO sign on the box, which indicates the possibility of use at a professional level.
Characteristics:
- Load capacity – 2 tons
- Weight – 12.8 kg
- Pickup height – 13.5 cm
- Lifting height – 38.5 cm
- Set contents: jack and shield.
- Packaging dimensions – 23.0*15.0*57.0 cm.
The homeland of the brand is Germany, while manufacturing is carried out in China. A dealer certificate is included with the product.
Pros: The advantages of the model include:
- hydraulic type;
- reliability;
- presence of a convenient case;
- repair kit;
- weight;
- price;
- high quality material from which the jack is made.
Minuses:
The disadvantages of this model, according to reviews, include its price and weight. It is better not to use it without a threshold stand.
Reviews about the design of this model indicate that it is the best in its class. It consistently lifts cars; the hydraulic drive allows for a minimum of effort.
The agony of choice
So, in front of you are several jacks. They not only have different parameters, but may differ in appearance. Externally often means constructively. For now, let's look at the parameters. Namely, the jack is characterized by:
- Load capacity;
- Pickup height a;
- Drive type;
- Maximum lift height;
- View.
When choosing, you need to consider everything. The only parameter that in many cases acts as a secondary one is the drive type. We'll talk about drives in more detail. For now, let's look at all the other concepts.
Best hydraulic jack
SOROKIN HobbyLine Jack
jacks have a greater load capacity than devices with other types of drive.
However, bottle jacks can only be transported in an upright position, making them difficult to transport, limiting them to garage use only.
This model is convenient for individuals to use for working in garages. They pick up cars very quickly for subsequent servicing or repairs.
The convenient handle makes it possible to install the mechanism in any convenient place without wasting energy. A comfortable pedal allows you to raise the support platform.
The compactness, mobility, and reliability of this model allow this model to be the most popular among car enthusiasts of all categories. The series devices are used for daily work. Not recommended for professional purposes.
The mechanism is not designed to hold loads. Safety stands and parking shoes should be used to secure the lifted load. In addition, you must use a rubber heel pad.
When choosing a jack, you should keep in mind the minimum height that allows you to place the jack under a car with a flat tire. In addition, it is necessary to take into account the maximum stroke of the jack rod, which will make it possible to hang the car wheel for replacement.
The device can only be operated on level areas. Characteristics:
- Load capacity – 3 tons
- Pickup height – 14 cm
- Lifting height – 43 cm
- Pad diameter – 5.2 cm
- Length – 120 cm
- Weight – 19 kg
- Packaging 66*28.5*17.5 cm
Pros: Buyers of a hydraulic jack note its undeniable advantages:
- smooth ride;
- fast rise;
- high efficiency;
- fixation accuracy;
- Suitable for vehicles with low ground clearance;
- maneuverability and relatively low weight;
- reliable braking of the jack.
Cons: Despite many positive qualities, this jack has several disadvantages:
- cardboard box;
- plastic handle;
- no rubber pad.
Some useful tips
To avoid trouble when carrying out repairs on the road or in the garage, do not forget about the following:
- When a malfunction catches you right on the road, look for a flat, solid area . Don’t forget to also give visual signals to other drivers on the road - turn on your lights, put up a warning triangle;
- When working with a jack, do not forget about additional supports. We advise you to carry several solid blocks, a tripod, etc. in the trunk;
- When lifting the car, watch the longitudinal displacement of its body. If a misalignment occurs, the vehicle must be immediately lowered to the ground and the jack must be reinstalled.
If trouble overtakes you in the forest, we advise you, even if you have a flat tire, to drive to an area with a hard, flat surface - it will not be possible to carry out work on slopes.
Best rack and pinion jack
The lift of this type of jacks moves vertically.
They have a large load capacity, so they are used mostly for cargo transportation or off-road travel/competition. Using this device, you can lift the car, but you can move it by lifting it and pushing it in the required direction.
Very often it is used as a winch.
HiLift Jack HL604 is made of cast iron, with some parts cast in steel. The jack drive is mechanical. Coated with black powder paint, the working mechanisms are galvanized to avoid corrosion.
The hijack is designed to lift and hold the side of the machine for changing a wheel or performing other work. Picking up can be done using standard parts, a wheel, a cradle or a bumper.
Using additional materials, the jack can be turned into a universal mechanism with which you can pull out fence posts or pull out a car using the jack as a winch.
Indispensable not only off-road, but also far beyond.
The model can be used as a press, including for pulling out body parts.
Characteristics:
- Model length – 15.2 cm
- Lifting height – 11.43-122.56 cm
- Load – 2,113 tons
- Traction force – 2.268 tons
- Weight – 13.6 kg
- Made in USA
Pros: The most beloved rack and pinion jack by motorists has a lot of advantages:
- reliability;
- versatility;
- high load capacity;
- sustainability;
- reliability of the latch;
- no need for lubrication;
- absence of parts prone to wear;
- quick lifting is necessary for a part of the machine;
- winch function.
Cons: The model has no disadvantages. Some users cited the high price of the equipment as a “minus”.
The manufacturer has been producing lifting equipment for more than 100 years, during which time the simple design has been in many situations, proving itself as a universal device.
It is easy to handle and convenient to store. All this, together with increased maximum loads, allows us to consider the mechanism an optimal device for off-road racing.
Conclusion
A jack is a very useful thing, but only drivers who find themselves in an unusual situation can appreciate all its advantages. There are many models of jacks available on the market. There are European, domestic, Asian ones to choose from - they are all good, but not all of them will last long. As practice shows, even a standard mechanism lasts about 3 years. So we advise you to pay a little more, but buy a standard or branded jack of the highest build quality. First of all, it is safe to work with. Secondly, it will last longer than low-quality ones. The latter is especially true for hydraulic jacks, which are much more complex than mechanical ones. By the way, hydraulic mechanisms are the only choice for drivers of heavy vehicles. However, knowledge of the above designs, as well as knowledge of manufacturers, will be useful to every car enthusiast.
Spare parts for Skoda octavia
Transmission oil
OCTAVIA liftback (1U2) (09.96 - 04.11)
Best bottle jack
One of the most popular types of jacks is the bottle jack.
From the name it is clear that it is shaped like a bottle. It has another name - vertical. These garage equipment are smooth running, easy to use and can lift fairly heavy loads. The main advantage over other types of jacks is increased load capacity combined with compactness.
Model AutoprpfiDG-08 – bottle jack with hydraulic drive. It quickly and easily copes with lifting loads to a height of about 40.5 cm.
When folded, the mechanism does not exceed 20 cm. The reliable design does not require special care, ensuring its operation in any situation. The device has a bypass valve that allows overload up to 25%.
In this case, the valve does not allow the operation of a product whose load is significantly exceeded.
The jack is used only for lifting - other devices must support the weight.
Use on flat surfaces. After lifting, secure the car with safety supports. AutoprpfiDG-08 makes it possible to lift up to 8 tons of cargo.
With its help, commercial and passenger vehicles are lifted and used for rigging and construction work.
It should be borne in mind that this model is not suitable for cars whose ground clearance is less than 20 cm. Owners of SUVs and crossovers will be happy if they buy the AutoprpfiDG-08, because its carrying capacity is enough even for a loaded Gazelle.
Excellent performance in operation, even despite belonging to the economy class: reliable processing of the hydraulic cylinder prevents untimely wear of the cuffs, the valve does not allow them to be squeezed out when the permissible load is exceeded.
A metal heel can cause complaints - in order to preserve the coating from corrosion or paint, you need to take a responsible approach to choosing a lining.
Characteristics:
- Load capacity – 8 tons
- Lifting height – 40.5 cm
- Pickup height – 20 cm
- Height – 20 cm
- Bypass valve - yes
- Material – metal
- Weight – 12.5 kg.
Pros:
- hydraulic drive;
- acceptable price;
- reliability;
- durability;
- load capacity;
- convenience.
Minuses:
The main disadvantage of the model (as well as the whole type of jacks) is the need for transportation in a vertical state. This makes transportation not very convenient, but when working in the garage there is no equal model.
Brand tour
Since the jack is not a complex mechanism, the main requirements are for the quality of materials and assembly. The mechanisms of the following companies are completely satisfactory: Airline, Zubr, AE&T (Russia), AutoProfi (China), Matrix (Germany).
You can also buy a standard jack - the mechanism from the standard set is always of high quality and durable, but is not always good in certain conditions. For example, many Volkswagen cars have a standard lever-screw jack, to replace which drivers take a rhombic one from one of the above-mentioned companies.
Best inflatable jack
This type is designed for lifting loads whose weight does not exceed 4 tons.
Especially loved by fishermen, hunters and other off-road travelers. Compared to other types, these have clear advantages:
- compactness - when assembled, the pump easily fits into a bag located in a small bag;
- ease of use on uneven surfaces (suitable for snow, off-road, mud);
- Possibility of investing in a small ground clearance - about 2mm.
An inflatable jack is a cushion placed under any part of the load. After this, the cushion is filled with air or car gases, due to which lifting occurs.
Air Jack is the most reliable and fastest mechanism for lifting a car out of snow, sand or mud. To inflate it, you need to use a six-meter pipe connected to the exhaust pipe or a 12-volt compressor.
Made from high quality nylon, which is coated outside and inside with PVC. Thanks to this design, the car rises as if on its own. The lifting height reaches 85 cm, the jack is capable of lifting up to 4 tons.
The device is only suitable as a lifting force. A jack is used to change a tire or pull a car out of a difficult place. For proper use, please read the instructions.
The design of the device has been improved; it consists of several layers. The jack helps to quickly raise the car. It is easy to use and does not damage the vehicle, as is often the case with rack-and-pinion jacks.
Spikes on the bottom prevent the jack from slipping.
The jack is supplied complete with a bag for transportation, a 6-meter hose, a repair kit, mats (for the bottom and the ground), a connector for the compressor, gloves and other parts.
Characteristics:
- Load capacity – 4 tons;
- Pickup height – 7.5 cm
- Lifting height – 66.5 cm
- Weight – 5 kg
- Conical outlet to exhaust pipe
Pros: The model, suitable for work in the field, has a number of advantages:
- compact dimensions;
- convenient inflation hose, resistant to caustic gases;
- presence of a transport bag;
- high load capacity;
- Ease of use;
- the presence of anti-slip spikes;
- light weight;
- Possibility to choose orange or red color of the pillow.
The disadvantage when using it is that it can only be used to lift a car.
Best Diamond Jack
The device consists of levers connected to each other by hinges so that they form a diamond. With this type of connection, the teeth are responsible for the stable position of the jack; with the help of a gear connection, the device holds the load.
Vertical movement is carried out by increasing/decreasing the angles of the parallelogram. These mechanisms are universal, with a rigid structure with a large support plane.
The jacks are compact, take up little space in the luggage compartment, while their load capacity is quite high.
Alca Rhombus , 2 tons - a compact device with a mechanical drive. The design of the equipment is classic and easy to use. The mechanism is designed to lift loads up to 2 tons.
Lifting height – 418 mm, the device is designed for lifting passenger cars with low ground clearance.
The folded mechanism is convenient to store and transport, so this model turns out to be an excellent alternative to the accessory included with the car.
Used on a flat, hard surface. To support the machine in a raised state, it is necessary to use safety supports. In addition to the device, the delivery set includes a handle. Characteristics:
- Load capacity – 2 tons
- Lifting height – 41.8 cm
- Pickup height – 12 cm
- Weight 3.38
- Manufacturer – China
- Box size – 46*13*13
Pros:
- reliability;
- quality materials;
- compactness;
- light weight;
- Ease of use;
- metal thickness;
- lifting height.
Minuses
No matter how good the product is, you can find disadvantages:
- lack of lubrication;
- lack of rubber pad;
- uncomfortable handle.
Accessories
For most modifications of jacks, you can purchase an additional accessory, for example, it can be an adapter, a rubber pad for pickup or support. The adapter is often used in conjunction with a rolling jack. This element is made in the form of an additional telescopic bar with powerful stiffening ribs, along the edges of which there is one support platform.
Thanks to this design, the load on the contact part of the lifted load is reduced (it is evenly distributed into two parts). Such an accessory will prevent damage to the car's support element if the car is heavy.
Best low lift jack
DA5P120K is designed for lifting and fixing heavy structures, for supporting various loads, for repair work, for installation, dismantling, assembly, and other operations in garages, warehouses and other premises.
Jacks of this type are equipped with grabs, with the help of which you can lift various objects that are located at a short distance from the ground.
The support has a corrugation that prevents the load from sliding. The pump makes it possible to lift loads efficiently and quickly. The device is equipped with return springs, thanks to which the rod quickly returns to its place.
There are handles for installation and transportation of equipment.
The low lift jack is designed for heavy lifting, installation, repair and dismantling work. Due to its compact size and relatively low weight, this equipment is designed for work in small areas and in confined spaces.
The device is made of high-strength steel using the latest generation of support and sealing materials.
The single-acting mechanism is small in size, equipped with a spring return rod, its maintenance is simple, and operation is reliable. The jack can lift up to 5 tons on a support, and 2.5 tons on a foot.
The rod stroke is 12 cm, with a pick-up height of less than 2 cm. The equipment is equipped with a hydraulic drive with a built-in pump that operates autonomously.
The autonomy of the jack determines its efficiency, mobility, and the ability to work without external sources of hydraulic energy.
Characteristics:
- Load capacity – 5/2.5 tons
- Pickup height – 1.9 cm
- Rod stroke – 12 cm
- Pump – built-in
- Dimensions – 17*24.3*23 cm
- Weight – 12 kg
Pros:
- a convenient removable handle rotates in different directions, which makes it possible to operate the device in confined spaces;
- permissibility of lifting loads located at least 19 mm from the surface;
- autonomy, mobility;
- bottle hydraulics;
- convenient handles for transportation;
Equipped with a grab that allows you to firmly secure loads, including those located close to the surface;
- equipped with return springs, making it possible to quickly return the jack to its initial position while continuing work;
- corrugation of working platforms, preventing the load from sliding.
Best two-rod jack for SUV
The small dimensions of BottLine Jack 2t allow it to be used not only for car repairs, but also for rigging work.
The functionality of the device is ensured by a simple and reliable design that does not require complex maintenance. The jack has a valve that makes it possible to overload the device by 25%, while preventing excessive overload.
Jacks of this type should only be used on level surfaces; they can be used for lifting, but not for holding. After lifting, the load must be securely secured to the supports.
Telescopic jacks of this model differ from traditional bottle jacks in their reduced lifting height. At the same time, the lifting height remains classic, or slightly increased.
When purchasing, you need to take into account the height of the pickup, which will make it possible to place the device under the body of an SUV that has a flat tire. In addition, it is important to remember the maximum travel, which allows you to hang the wheel for replacement.
Use this model of jack only to lift the vehicle and do not leave it as a restraining device.
For reliable fixation, parking shoes and safety supports are required. The equipment can be used for rigging or construction work. Capable of lifting loads weighing up to 2 tons.
Ease of use and hydraulic drive do not require significant effort to carry out the necessary work. For this reason, even a woman can easily cope with lifting a car.
Characteristics:
- Load capacity – 2 tons
- Pickup height – 17.8 cm
- Lifting height – 42 cm
- Rod stroke – 19 cm
- Screw stroke – 5.5 cm
- Packaging – 12*11*19 cm
- Weight – 3 kg
Pros: Distinctive features of the model:
- presence of an overload valve;
- reliability;
- light weight;
- compactness;
- smooth ride;
- sustainability;
- durability;
- hydraulic drive.
Load capacity
This is one of the most important characteristics of car jacks. If you select the product incorrectly, there is a risk of not only breaking it, but also damaging the vehicle or even harming the person under the car.
Before purchasing a product, you need to clarify the exact weight of the vehicle and add 200 kg to this value (the car contains a spare wheel and many other things, and you may also someday have to transport a heavy load in the trunk). Based on the type of machine, you should choose certain products:
- For passenger cars, jacks are usually chosen (most often rhombic type), which are capable of lifting 1.5-2 tons.
- A truck requires a more powerful unit, so you need to focus on a load capacity of 15 to 30 tons. When calculating the required parameter, you should pay attention to the weight of the machine and its carrying capacity. For example, if a KamAZ can transport up to 14 tons of cargo and itself weighs 10 tons, then the jack must withstand a minimum of 24 tons.
Healthy! The higher the lifting capacity of the jack, the more expensive it is, so there is no point in overpaying if the machine is not capable of carrying a lot of cargo.
You also need to consider how exactly the device functions.
