Probably the most important piece of equipment in any repair shop is a vehicle lift. If you have ever need to access the underside of a vehicle and have used or seen a mechanic use one in the past then you understand how useful they are. Most repair shops likely have several and recently they have become a frequent sight in home garages as well. There are several different types of vehicle lifts, and we have reviewed several from each type that are the most ideal for a repair shop or a home garage environment.
To make it easier, this will be broken down into three categories, two-post, four-post, and scissor lifts. Each has its advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to choose one that is the best type for you. The table we provided below lists the best three lifts from each type to better guide your buying decisions.
Two-Post Car Lifts:
Arguably the most common and versatile, you frequently see them in a repair shop. As the name implies, they have two posts that you drive the vehicle between and there are four arms (two on each side) that are placed under the lift points.
The advantage of a two-post lift is you have good access to the underside of the vehicle. Also, you can work on the vehicle while standing on your feet. This is ideal for repairs that are more involved where laying on your back or being crouched over a hood can be uncomfortable for extended periods of time.
The downsides of a two-post lift are maintenance as they have quite a few moving parts like chains, pulleys, and lift arms. Likewise, the arms usually need to be adjusted frequently. Many repairs may require a technician and that can get costly at times, not to mention a lift out of service. Secondly, you need a reinforced concrete floor as all the weight is concentrated on a small area. This is usually not an issue for a repair shop as they are usually designed with that in mind. For a home garage, that is something to consider and you may have to redo the floor.
Four-Post Car Lifts:
These can be used as repair or storage lifts. However, access to the underside of the vehicle will be limited to some extent by the runway. You will not be able to change wheels and suspension components as the vehicle sits on the platform. They are fine for oil changes and inspecting a vehicle. With the exception of some of the BendPaks, most of the four-post lifts are intended for storage as opposed to daily use in a repair shop.
For storage, they are quite useful in a home garage especially if you own multiple vehicles. Essentially it doubles the parking space available as you can park one vehicle on top of the other. This is perfect if you have a car that you do not use often and prefer to not leave it outside. The other benefit is they are easier to install and the weight is spread across four posts as opposed to two. In some cases, you may not need to reinforce the floor. Also, some have 110V motors so they can plug into a standard wall outlet.
Scissor Car Lifts:
These are not as popular in repair shops since they can only lift a vehicle a few feet off the ground. However, they are small, compact, and some have wheels so they can be moved around easily. For home use, scissor lifts are quite useful for changing tires and suspension components, but clearance is limited and you will not be able to get under the vehicle. They are easy to install as the weight is spread out across the frame and they usually don’t need to be bolted to the floor this makes them ideal use in a garage.
Prouct Name | Product Image | Lift Type | Estimated Price | Full Review |
1. BendPak XPR-12FDL 12,000 Two Post Floor Lift (Best Overall) |  | Two Post Lift | Estimated Price: $5,700 | |
2. BendPak XPR-10S 10,000lb Symmetric Two Post Lift (Best Value) |  | Two Post Lift | Estimated Price: $3,750 | |
3. APlusLift HW-10-KBP-A 10,000lb Two Post Floor Lift (Budget Pick) |  | Two Post Lift | Estimated Price: $1,860 | |
1. BendPak 14,000lb HDS-14 Four Post Truck Lift (Best Overall) |  | Four Post Lift | Estimated Price: $5,650 | |
2. BendPak HD-7W 7,000lb Extra Wide, Extra Tall Four Post Car Lift (Best Value) |  | Four Post Lift | Estimated Price: $3,950 | |
3. Triumph NSS-8 8,000lb Four Post Lift (Budget Pick) |  | Four Post Lift | Estimated Price: $2,400 | |
1. Titan SL-6600 Automotive Mid Rise Scissor Lift (Best Overall) |  | Scissor Lift | Estimated Price: $2,600 | |
2. APlusLift HW-SL6600X Mid Rise 6,600lb Scissor Lift (Best Budget) |  | Scissor Lift | Estimated Price: $1,800 | |
3. BendPak Portable Low-Rise 6,000lb Capacity Lift LR-60P (Best Value) |  | Scissor Lift | Estimated Price: $2,150 |
Here Are the Best Car Lifts
Best Two-Post Lifts
1. BendPak XPR-12FDL 12,000 Two Post Floor Lift (Best Overall)
Key Specifications:
Estimated Price: $5,700
- Load Capacity: 12,000lbs
- Maximum Lift from Ground: 79”
- Arm Reach: 39” to 59”
- Drive Through Clearance: 103”
- Post Height: 144”
- Time to Full Rise: 55 seconds
- ALI/ANSI Certified: Yes
- Warranty: 5/2/1
Like most BendPak products, the XPR-12FDL was designed with a professional mechanic in mind. This heavy-duty lift features a 12,000lb capacity making it ideal for working on most light trucks and work vans. However, the arms have a good range and can reach most of the lift points on smaller vehicles and sports cars as well. The open-top design makes it suited for working on taller vehicles as well. The direct-drive technology does not use any lift chains or screw mechanisms which means there are fewer moving parts that can break. The adapter set includes 3” and 6” extensions that make it easier to access the lift points on trucks with running boards.
This is not a cheap lift costing over $5,500 but it is one of the most capable heavy-duty models out there. With a good lift capacity of 12,000lbs and the versatility to lift sports cars, the BendPak XPR-12FDL is a shop-grade lift that meets all ALI/ANSI certifications. If durability is important, there is no beating a BendPak XPR-12FDL.
2. BendPak XPR-10S 10,000lb Symmetric Two Post Lift (Best Value)
Key Specifications:
Estimated Price: $3,750
- Load Capacity: 10,000lbs
- Maximum Lift from Ground: 75”, 77.5” with adapters
- Arm Reach: 27” to 51” (front), 34” to 54” (rear)
- Drive Through Clearance: 93”
- Post Height: 145”
- Time to Full Rise: 45 seconds
- ALI/ANSI Certified: Yes
- Warranty: 5 years on the lift structure,
- 2-year warranty on the hydraulic cylinder and power unit
- 1-year warranty on the other electrical components, and on-site labor
Like the TCE T10000, the BendPak XPR-10S was designed with professional use in mind and is arguably the best two-post lift reviewed here. It was built to last with safety in mind and complies with all ALI/ANSI safety standards. This symmetric two-post lift is configurable and can accommodate wide and narrow installation setups giving you added versatility.
Also, the BendPak XRP-10S is different than most lifts as it uses dual direct-drive cylinders. What this means is there are no chains or screw mechanisms that are commonly used in other models. This is a benefit as there are fewer moving parts that can wear out along with lower pressure on the hydraulic system. Overall, it is more reliable and costs less to maintain. The arms have a good reach from 27” to 51” for the front and 34” to 54” for the rear. This is on the higher end for two-post lifts reviewed here. Another feature is the telescoping screw pads which make it easier to set up the arms under the vehicle and the 63mm stackable extensions are included.
For versatility along with the optional additions that can be purchased from BendPak, this is one of the best lifts out there. Likewise, it comes with a comprehensive warranty of five years for the lift structure, two years on the hydraulic cylinder and power unit, and one year for the electrical components. In addition, BendPak also offers a one-year on-site labor warranty. If quality is important along with having a manufacturer that stands behind their products, it is difficult to beat the BendPak XPR-10S. While it is the most expensive two-post lift reviewed here, you get what you pay for.
3. APlusLift HW-10-KBP-A 10,000lb Two Post Floor Lift (Budget Pick)
Key Specifications:
Estimated Price: $1,860
- Load Capacity: 10,000lbs
- Maximum Lift from Ground: 85”
- Arm Reach: 22” to 42” (front), 33” to 52” (rear)
- Post Height: 114”
- Drive Through Clearance: 100”
- Time to Full Rise: 50 seconds
- ALI/ANSI Certified: No
- Warranty: 2 years
One of the best values for the money, the AplusLift HW-10-KBP-A is a good addition to a home garage. It is capable of lifting 10,000lbs with a good lift range of 85” that is among the best of any lift reviewed here. It also features an open-top design that is ideal for taller vehicles. This lift also features a door guard that protects the doors while exiting the vehicle. The maximum height of 114” for the columns makes it ideal for garages with limited clearance. Arm reach is decent, although less than others in this category. The time to a full rise in 50 seconds is about average.
However, this is not an ALI/ANSI certified lift and so it will not be ideal for use in a shop. For home use, it is perfect and is one of the few that comes with a two-year warranty. For home use, the APlustLift HW-10-KBP-A is probably the best value for the money, and in my opinion the best car lift for home garage.
About APlusLift: Founded in 2013 in Bellevue, WA the founders were car lift manufacturers. They offer a wide variety of lifts for the professional repair shop and home mechanic.
4. TCE T10000-2OH-33-A 10,000lb 2 Post Floor Lift
Key Specifications:
Estimated Price: $2,800
- Load Capacity: 10,000lbs
- Maximum Lift from Ground: 72”, 78” with adapters
- Arm Reach: 19” to 42” (front), 37” to 60” (rear)
- Drive Through Clearance: 100”
- Post Height: 144”
- ALI/ANSI Certified: Yes, ANSI/ALI 2017
- Warranty: 2 years
The TCE T10000 was designed with professional use in mind and is ALI/ANSI certified. It has a good set of features like front and rear arms that have 180 degrees of movement allowing easy access to the vehicle’s lift points. They also extend from 19” to 42” for the front and 37” to 60” for the rear is among the best of any lift reviewed here. The lift range of 72” (78” with optional truck adapters) is decent. The TCE T10000 also has a two-year warranty which is better than most. With a good set of safety features, you can feel comfortable working on a vehicle. For a professional-grade lift, this is one of the more affordable options out there and comes with a good warranty. If you need an ALI/ANSI certified lift, this is one worth considering.
About TCE: With 60 years of experience Torin Commercial Equipment is a well-respected name in the auto repair business. All lifts are designed to meet the latest industry and safety standards. If quality, durability, and safety are important when choosing a lift, TCE has you covered.
5. XK USA L1000 10,000lb Two Post Floor Lift
Key Specifications:
Estimated Price: $1,850
- Load Capacity: 10,000lbs
- Maximum Lift from Ground: 78” with adapters
- Arm Reach: 26” to 40” (front), 33” to 51” (rear)
- Post Height: 111”
- Drive Through Clearance: 100”
- Time to Full Rise: 60 seconds
- ALI/ANSI Certified: No
- Warranty: 1-year
One of the more economical two-post lifts, the XK USA L1000 is perfect for a home garage. It has most of the features you would see in more expensive models like safety locks and a built-in relief valve that prevents overloading of the pump. Other features are a heavy-duty 5/16” diameter cable and a 4.56” pulley that ensure both lifting arms stay synchronized. The floor mounting hardware is also included. Maximum lift height from the ground is a total of 78-5/32” and is equal to other two-post lifts. Like the APlusLift, it has an open-top design that allows you to lift taller vehicles. Likewise, truck adapters are included.
Overall, this is a decent entry-level lift that is perfect for a home garage. While it is basic in terms of features it will get the job done and has a lift capacity of 10,000lbs making it ideal for most passenger cars and some light trucks. It should be noted the XK USA L1000 is not ALI/ANSI certified so it is not designed for use in a professional auto shop.
6. HPDMC 10,000 Two Post Floor Lift
Key Specifications:
Estimated Price: $2,100
- Load Capacity: 10,000lbs
- Maximum Lift from Ground: 70”, 74” with adapters
- Arm Reach: 30” to 50”
- Post Height: 110”
- Drive Through Clearance: 99”
- Time to Full Rise: 60 seconds
- ALI/ANSI Certified: No
- Warranty: 1-year
Another great option for home-oriented two post lifts, the HPDMC comes with a good set of features like symmetric arms that have good reach and can access most lift points. The large rubber-padded door protector to prevent damage to the vehicle. Low profile contact pads make the HPDMC ideal for working on lowered vehicles as well. Overall, this is a basic, entry-level lift that is ideal for a home garage as it lacks the ALI/ANSI certifications for shop use. For the money, it is worth considering.
7. MayFlower Blacksmith Heavy Duty Two Post Floor Lift
Key Specifications:
Estimated Price: $1,900
- Load Capacity: 9,000lbs
- Maximum Lift from Ground: 72”, 78” with adapters
- Arm Reach: 28” to 42” (front), 32” to 62” (rear)
- Drive Through Clearance: 92”
- Post Height: 146”
- Time to Full Rise: 50 seconds
- ALI/ANSI Certified: No
- Warranty: 1-year
While the lift capacity of 9,000lbs is slightly less than other models reviewed here, the MayFlower Blacksmith is a perfect accessory for a home garage as it is not ALI/ANSI certified. Feature-wise it is similar to the XK USA L1000 although it has a slightly better arm reach of 28” to 42” for the front and 32” to 62” for the rear. Lift height of 72”, 78” with the truck adapters is decent and equal to most of the models reviewed here. The mounting hardware is also included. For anyone needing a basic lift for a home garage on a limited budget, then this is one of the better options out there.
8. Triumph NT9FP 9,000lb Two Post Auto Lift
Key Specifications:
Estimated Price: $1,850
- Load Capacity: 9,000lbs
- Maximum Lift from Ground: 72”
- Post Height: 109”
- Drive Through Clearance: 96”
- ALI/ANSI Certified: No
- Warranty: 1 year
The Triumph NT9FP 9,000lb lift is the perfect accessory for a home garage with limited clearance. This open-top lift is ideal for taller vehicles. While the load capacity is on the lower end at 9,000lbs and it is a bit narrower than others with a drive-through clearance of 96” this is not going to be the best option for larger trucks. However, it does include the extensions and all mounting hardware. With a maximum height of 109”, this is one of the shorter two post lifts out there.
9. Triumph NT-15 15,000lb Two Post Floor Lift
Key Specifications:
Estimated Price: $3,850
- Load Capacity: 15,000lbs
- Maximum Lift from Ground: 72”
- Drive Through Clearance: 100”
- Post Height: 120”
- ALI/ANSI Certified: No
- Warranty: 5 year structural, 1-year parts
The Triumph NT-15 is probably the best budget choice for lifting heavier vehicles with a 15,000lb capacity. This makes it suitable for lifting larger light trucks and work vans with heavy loads. It also features an open-top design for added clearance. As this is not an ALI/ANSI certified lift it will not be suited for use in a shop. However, it is perfect for a home garage and will be more than sufficient. For the money, it is difficult to beat the Triumph NT-15 especially if you need the extra lift capacity.
10. Atlas Equipment 10,000lb Two Post Lift
Key Specifications:
Estimated Price: $2,995
- Load Capacity: 10,000lbs
- Maximum Lift from Ground: 77”, 84” with adapters
- Drive Through Clearance: 106”
- Post Height: 151”
- ALI/ANSI Certified: No
- Warranty: 1 year
One of the better home lifts is the Atlas Equipment 10,000 two post floor lift. This model is ideal for taller vehicles with a maximum lift height of 84” with the adapters, giving it one of the highest lift range of any two-post lift reviewed. A padded stop bar automatically cuts power should the vehicle be lifted too high. The drive-through width of 106” is good and gives some extra clearance for wider vehicles. A 12-piece extension set is also included and makes placing the arms easier. If you need some extra clearance this one of the better options out there and it can lift most vehicles and light trucks. However, this is not ALI/ANSI certified so it is intended more for home use.
11. Chien Rong L1100 10,000lb Two Post Floor Lift
Key Specifications:
Estimated Price: $1,950
- Load Capacity: 10,000lbs
- Maximum Lift from Ground:78” with adapters
- Arm Reach: 30” to 48” (front), 30” to 48” (rear)
- Drive Through Clearance: 100”
- Post Height: 141”
- Time to Full Rise: 60 seconds
- ALI/ANSI Certified: No
- Warranty: 1 year
Another affordable lift designed for home use, the Chien Rong L1100 has a good set of features for the money. The lift capacity of 10,000lbs is more than sufficient for most passenger vehicles and light trucks. Door guards prevent damage when exiting the vehicle. A relief valve built into the pump prevents overloading. Also, the truck extensions are included.
This is not an ALI/ANSI certified lift so it is not intended for shop use. However, it is a good budget option for a home garage.
12. Chien Rong CR L2910 9,000lb Two Post Floor Lift
Key Specifications:
Estimated Price: $1,750
- Load Capacity: 9,000lbs
- Maximum Lift from Ground: 78”
- Arm Reach: 30” to 47” (front), 30” to 47” (rear)
- Drive Through Clearance: 100”
- Post Height: 143”
- Time to Full Rise: 60 seconds
- ALI/ANSI Certified: No
- Warranty: 1 year
One of the cheapest two post lifts available, the Chien Rong L2910 is perfect for a home garage. While the lift capacity of 9,000 is lower than most it can lift most passenger cars and some light trucks. With a 78” clearance there is enough space to get under most vehicles. Door guards prevent damage to the vehicle and a switch in the pump prevents overloading. It also comes with mounting hardware and truck extensions as well. While this is not an ALI/ANSI certified lift and is not intended for shop use, it is ideal for a home garage where budget is a factor.
Four Post Lifts
1. BendPak 14,000lb HDS-14 Four Post Truck Lift (Best Overall)
Key Specifications:
Estimated Price: $5,650
- Load Capacity: 14,000lbs
- Maximum Lift Height: 77”
- Height Under Runway: 70”
- Overall Dimensions: 213”(L) x 130”(W) x 93”(H)
- Warranty: 5/2/1
Similar to the other BendPak four-post lifts, this one can lift just about any passenger vehicle with a 14,000lb maximum lift capacity. This is a rugged and durable lift that can be used for servicing vehicles that are too heavy for a standard two-post lift. As with any BendPak lift, there are numerous safety features including a flow restrictor that provides a controlled descent should a hose rupture. It also meets all ALI/ANSI safety standards so you can feel confident. For a heavy-duty lift, this is a good option.
2. BendPak HD-7W 7,000lb Extra Wide, Extra Tall Four Post Car Lift (Best Value)
Key Specifications:
Estimated Price: $3,950
- Load Capacity: 7,000lbs
- Maximum Lift Height: 85”
- Drive Through Width: 86”
- Overall Dimensions: 174”(L) x 110”(W) x 100”(H)
- Warranty: 5/2/1
As the name implies, the BendPak HD-7W is designed to accommodate larger and taller vehicles. It features an 85” maximum lift height that makes it perfect for taller vehicles. With a load capacity of 7,000lbs is slightly lower than other lifts but enough for most passenger vehicles. Like most BendPak lifts, it has a good set of safety features including a secondary lock system that catches the runway should the cable develop any slack. What this does is prevent the top ramps from tilting, a dangerous situation that could cause the vehicle to fall off the lift. It also has longer approach ramps which are ideal for lowered vehicles. Like most BendPak lifts, they are built with durability and quality in mind. While costlier than similar models, this is a good quality lift.
3. Triumph NSS-8 8,000lb Four Post Lift (Budget Pick)
Key Specifications:
Estimated Price: $2,400
- Load Capacity: 8,000lbs
- Maximum Lift Height: 72”
- Height Under Runway: 69”
- Overall Dimensions: 175”(L) x 106”(W) x 84”(H)
- Warranty: 1 year
Another good option that is perfect for a home garage is the Triumph NSS-8 four-post lift. With an 8,000lb capacity and a 69” clearance, most vehicles can easily fit underneath. Heavy-duty casters aid in moving the lift into place. Installation is fairly easy and can usually be done by the end-user. It also includes drip trays to prevent fluids from leaking on the vehicle below.
For portable storage, this is one of the most economical models available. The motor also uses 110 volts meaning it can plug into any wall outlet. For home storage, the Triumph NSS-8 is another good option worth considering.
4. BendPak HD-9SWX 9,000lb Four Post Car Lift
Key Specifications:
Estimated Price: $8,350
- Load Capacity: 9,000lbs
- Maximum Lift Height: 89”
- Height Under Runway: 82”
- Overall Dimensions: 202”(L) x 198”(W) x 102”(H)
- Warranty: 5/2/1
When you have multiple vehicles and need to maximize your storage space, the BendPak HD-9SWX is the answer. Capable of storing a total of four vehicles, this is the perfect lift for anyone with multiple cars. The height under the runway is 82”, among the best of any four-post lift reviewed. Like all Bendpak lifts, it has a good set of safety features and is covered by a 5/2/1 year warranty on respective components. While this is not going to be practical for most people, but if you need the storage space and have multiple vehicles or want multiple vehicles then look no further, this is the best car lift for you!
5. Triumph NOS9000 Four Post Lift
Key Specifications:
Estimated Price: $5,500
- Load Capacity: 9,000lbs
- Maximum Lift Height: 77.5”
- Height Under Runway: 73”
- Overall Dimensions: 212.5”(L) x 113”(W) x 95”(H)
- Warranty: 1 year
This is an upgrade over NSS-8 and comes with a good set of features. For one, it has a clearance of 73” underneath so it can fit some taller vehicles. Also, it has a high load capacity of 9,000lbs and features a durable slider design for a sturdy and rigid stance. It is portable and comes with heavy-duty casters that aid in mobility. The ramps are made of aluminum and weigh just 29lbs each. The motor uses 110V meaning it can plug into a standard wall outlet.
Overall, this is a good upgrade over the entry-level four post lifts with similar features to the BendPak and TCE. For anyone wanting to upgrade and have decent quality lift the Triumph is worth considering.
6. AplusLift HW-8S 8,000lb Portable Storage 4-Post Auto Lift
Key Specifications:
Estimated Price: $2,300
- Load Capacity: 8,000lbs
- Maximum Lift Height: 72”
- Height Under Runway: 69”
- Overall Dimensions: 175”(L) x 106”(W) x 84”(H)
- Warranty: 1 year
The AplusLift HW-8S four-post lift is a perfect accessory for a home garage where space is an issue. It is also portable and comes with heavy-duty casters so it can be moved around for ideal placement. The best feature of the four-post lifts is they double the number of vehicles you can store. This is ideal for someone who owns multiple expensive vehicles and does not drive them regularly. It also features three drip trays that prevent fluids from falling on to the vehicle parked below. With an 8,000lb capacity, it can lift most vehicles. Another feature is the motor uses 110 volts so it can use existing outlets in the garage. While this is not a shop-grade model, it is perfect for residential use and will take care of your parking needs.
7. Mayflower Blacksmith 8,000lb Four Post Lift
Key Specifications:
Estimated Price: $3,500
- Load Capacity: 8,000lbs
- Maximum Lift Height: 72”
- Clearance Under Runway: 69”
- Overall Dimensions: 175”(L) x 106”(W) x 84”(H)
- Warranty: 1 year
Similar to the AplusLift HW-8S, the Mayflower Blacksmith four-post lift is perfect for a home garage. It has an 8,000lb lift capacity with a decent clearance of 69” under the runway. While less than the BendPak, it is sufficient for most vehicles. Also, it comes with drip trays which prevent fluids from leaking on the vehicle underneath. A relief valve in the pump prevents overloading. Lastly, the motor runs off 110 volts which are ideal for use in a home garage as there is no need to do any rewiring. While the clearance of 69” is lower than most, it is sufficient for most vehicles. For a home garage where storage space is at a premium, the Mayflower Blacksmith 8,000lb four-post lift will help you make the best of it.
8. KATOOL 8,000lb Four Post Parking Lift
Key Specifications:
Estimated Price: $2,400
- Load Capacity: 8,000 lbs
- Post Height: 86.2″
- Maximum Lift Height: 70.8″
- CE Certified
- Hydraulic system: 220V/ 60HZ/ 1PH
The KATOOL 8,000lb four-post lift is a perfect accessory for a home garage. Featuring an 8,000lb capacity it can lift most vehicles. It has a simple and reliable design that is easy to set up and use. The mechanical locks automatically engage and prevent the vehicle from falling off the lift. The hydraulic motor is mounted under the runway and out of the way. The safety locks on one side make it easy to control the descent and overall the lift requires minimal patience after installation. The KATOOL 8,000lb floor lift is another decent option for your home garage and parking needs.
9. HPDAV 8,800lb Four Post Parking Lift
Key Specifications:
Estimated Price: $3,350
- Load Capacity: 8,800lbs
- Post Height: 86.2″
- Lock Positions: 14
- Mount Width: 212.5″
- Motor: 110V/ 60HZ/ single phase
The HPDAV has a good set of features including an 8,800lb capacity which is among the highest of all the four-post lifts reviewed here. It has lowered tube arms that make it easier to get in and out of the vehicle. It also has longer ramps that are ideal for lowered vehicles such as coupes and other sports cars with low clearances. For the best parking and storage needs, the HPDAV four-post lift is an excellent option to consider!
10. XK PP-8S 8,000lb Four Post Portable Storage Lift
Key Specifications:
Estimated Price: $2,250
- Load Capacity: 8,000lbs
- Maximum Lift Height: 69”
- Height Under Runway: 72”
- Overall Dimensions: 175”(L) x 196”(W) x 84”(H)
- Warranty: 1 year
The XK PP-8S is one of the most affordable four post parking lifts available. With an 8,000lb capacity, it is capable of lifting most passenger vehicles with a 70” clearance. Some of the features are a single point locking system with 10 locking positions and a relief valve to prevent overloading. It features drop trays that prevent fluids from leaking on the vehicle below. An optional caster kit can be added for extra portability and moving the lift into place. A black powder coat finish protects the body against corrosion.
If you need a parking solution on budget, the XK PP-8S is one of the best choices available.
Scissor Lifts
1. Titan SL-6600 Automotive Mid Rise Scissor Lift (Best Overall)
Key Specifications:
Estimated Price: $2,600
- Load Capacity: 6,600lbs
- Maximum Lift Height: 50.5”
- Motor: 110 volts
- Warranty: 5 year structural, 2 years on the electrical parts
Another quality option is the Titan SL-6600 mid-rise scissor lift. With similar specs to the APlusLift HW-SL6600X, this is another option for a home garage. It has a good lift height of 50.5” that is sufficient for being able to do tire rotations and suspension work on most vehicles and light trucks. It also uses 110 volts so it can plug into a standard wall outlet. If you need a good scissor lift, the Titan SL-6600 is worth a look.
2. APlusLift HW-SL6600X Mid Rise 6,600lb Scissor Lift (Best Budget)
Key Specifications:
Estimated Price: $1,800
- Load Capacity: 6,600lbs
- Maximum Lift Height: 51”
- Motor: 110 volts
- Warranty: 5 year structural, 2 years on the electrical parts
The APlusLift HW-SL6600X is one of the best scissor lifts out there. It has a good lift height of 51” and is ideal for vehicles with high ground clearance. It also features six adjustable locking heights for added safety. The arms are capable of reaching the access points on most vehicles although vehicles with low clearance will have difficulty driving over it. The motor uses 110 volts so it can be plugged into any existing wall outlet. Also, it comes with a 5-year warranty on the structure and 2-years on the electrical components. For the money, the APlusLift HW-SL6600X is one of the best values out there for a scissor lift and is ideal for anyone who has limited space in their garage.
3. BendPak Portable Low-Rise 6,000lb Capacity Lift LR-60P (Best Value)
Key Specifications:
Estimated Price: $2,150
- Load Capacity: 6,000lbs
- Maximum Lift Height: 26”, 29” with extensions
- Motor: 110 volts
- Warranty: 5/2/1
Like most BendPak products, they are built with professional use in mind. What makes the LR-60P different than most scissor lifts is the portability. It has heavy-duty wheels that make it easy to move around and store. This is ideal for shops and garages with limited space. It has a low-profile height of 4” that makes it perfect for working on vehicles with low ground clearance.
Likewise, it includes a good set of safety features like a one-button release for the locks. It has a rugged steel frame for added durability and comes with Bendpak’s 5/2/1 warranty. An industrial-grade cylinder provides years of reliable use and the solid rubber lift pads will not wear out as easily like on other lifts. Like all BendPak products, you may pay more upfront but you know you are getting quality. The portability of the LR-60P makes it ideal for a shop or home garage.
4. XK 6200lb Moveable Scissor Lift
Key Specifications:
Estimated Price: $1,800
- Load Capacity: 6,200lbs
- Maximum Lift Height: 47”
- Motor: 220 volts
- Warranty: 1 year
Another portable scissor lift that is ideal for a home garage or auto shop is the XK 6200lb scissor lift. It has a good set of features like a 47” lift height, making it ideal for vehicles with high ground clearance and some lighter passenger trucks. It is perfect for changing tires or doing suspension work. This lift also features adjustable arms to access the vehicle’s lift points. If portability and versatility are important, along with a good lift range the XK 6,200lb scissor lift is difficult to beat for the price.
5. XK 6200lb Mini Scissor Lift
Key Specifications:
Estimated Price: $1,550
- Load Capacity: 6,200lbs
- Maximum Lift Height: 17”, 23” with extensions
- Motor: 110 volts
- Warranty: 1 year
The XK 6,200lb scissor lift is the most portable lift available with the frame weighing 77lbs and the power unit 52lbs. By far, this is the lightest scissor lift available and is perfect for doing light work like changing tires or suspension. It is capable of lifting 6,200lbs so it will be fine for most cars. With a low collapsed height most vehicles can drive onto the ramps with ease. While the lifting range is fairly low, 17” without extensions and 23” with them it is not going to give you much clearance but it will be sufficient for light duty repairs. If you do not have a lot of space this is probably the best floor lift available.
Choosing The Best Car Lift (Buyer’s Guide)
There are lifts for all budgets and needs and it can be broken down by vehicle type and use. For shop use, the BendPak and TCE are the only ones that are ALI/ANSI certified. Likewise, they are well built and designed to last. While the XK, Mayflower, and Triumph lifts can be used in a shop for light work they are more oriented towards home use. For the four-post lifts, it is difficult to beat the BendPaks for durability and build quality.
They are professional quality units that will last a lifetime in a home garage if properly maintained. The Triumph NOS9000 is another good option with a solid build quality like the BendPaks. As for scissor lifts, unless you only plan on doing light work like tire changes and suspension or are limited with space, a two-post lift is better. You have more access to the underside of the vehicle and they cost the same.
What are the ALI/ANSI certifications on car lifts?
The Automotive Lift Institute is a third-party industry watchdog that verifies automotive lifts meet applicable industry safety standards. Of all the two-post lifts reviewed here, only the BendPak and TCE models are certified. For use in a professional shop, local building codes may require lifting equipment to be ALI/ANSI certified. It is advised to check first before purchasing a lift.
For home use, this usually does not apply but it is recommended to check with your local authorities first.
What are some things to consider before purchasing a car lift?
Preparation: This will mostly apply to a home garage as most repair shops were designed with these considerations in mind. For home use, the first thing to check is if there is sufficient space and you have the clearance for when the vehicle is lifted. Aside from a scissor lift, most of the lifts will not fit without modifications in your standard residential two-car garage.
The second consideration is the floor may not be able to support the weight of the lift and the vehicle. This is a common issue in many residential garages as the floors are usually not reinforced. In that case, you will probably need to redo the floor and that can expensive.
You also need to keep in mind delivery and installation. Most of the two post and four post lifts weigh 1,400lbs or more and the posts can weigh over 200lbs each so you will need some heavy equipment to unload it. Not to mention, some companies may charge extra for residential delivery.
Installation: After getting your lift delivered and assuming you have the clearance for it and the floor is capable of supporting the weight you have to assemble it. This is less of an issue for mechanically inclined individuals but many times people try to install it on their own only to realize they are in over their head. Unless you are familiar with lifts, it is usually recommended to have them professionally installed which can easily cost $500 or more depending on the amount of work needing to be done. If you do plan on hiring someone, it is probably a good idea to get a few quotes first. For two-post lifts, you want to make sure the floor is level and there are no cracks in the concrete. This could lead to a dangerous situation later which could cause the lift to come crashing down.
Car Lift Maintenance
All lifts require periodic maintenance to ensure they are working properly and for safety. Some of the more common items are checking the torque on the bolts for the posts, especially two-post lifts. The lift arms need to be adjusted frequently to make sure they are level. Also, the stops on the arms should be checked as well. Many of the moving parts need to be greased regularly and the fluid needs to be changed occasionally.
Parts
There are items that wear out over time like the motor and hydraulic lines. Some of the motors can cost several hundred dollars. It is advised to check parts availability first since the last thing you want is to have a lift that is out of service for an extended time. This is especially true for a repair shop. As for the structure itself, this is usually not a major issue on any of the lifts unless you are using them beyond their rated capacity. Even in the home models, there are few reports of catastrophic failure.
How to properly use a car lift?
Most of this should be common sense but there are plenty of lift failure stories out there. However, most of them are usually related to operator error. The most frequent horror story is a vehicle falling off the lift and from our experience, it is from improperly placing the lift arms or not accounting for the load. Usually, learning to properly use a floor lift is one of the first things you learn as a mechanic. With that said, here are some basic tips, mostly focused on two-post lifts.
Lifting
First, you want to have the vehicle centered between the posts as much as possible. However, it does not have to be perfect. As for how far forward, that is going to vary by vehicle and the reach of the arms. There are a few things to consider are before lifting the vehicle: is it front-wheel drive or rear-wheel drive, two-wheel drive or four-wheel drive, gasoline or diesel, truck or van? It sounds confusing at first, but you will get used to it. For example, on FWD cars it is usually recommended to have the front arms closer to the front wheels. This makes the vehicle more stable and decreases the likelihood of it falling off the lift. The same for diesel trucks, especially four-wheel-drive models as they tend to have more weight in the front.
Another consideration, especially for work vans is how much gear is in the back. It’s not uncommon for a contractor to carry around an extra 1,000lbs of tools so you may want to have it slightly forward as well. Likewise, many times it will sag towards the rear, so it’s usually advised to place a pair of jack stands or a brace under the rear axle to provide some extra support.
For four-post lifts this not much of an issue as you drive the vehicle on the platform. However, an important consideration is to make sure the runways are clean and dry. If there some oil you could lose traction which could possibly cause the car to shoot sideways and come off the ramp entirely, causing considerable damage to the vehicle itself.
For scissor lifts, most of these are not major issues. The main concern is making sure the vehicle is centered and there is sufficient clearance underneath, making sure the lift body does not come into contact with the vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions About Car Lifts (FAQ)
My car lift has a rated capacity of 10,000lbs, can I use it to lift my 9500lb Dodge Ram pickup?
Even if it is capable of lifting the vehicle, it is not recommended. For one, it’s a matter of safety as the rated capacity is the maximum the lift was designed for. Doing so puts more stress on the components and that could lead to a catastrophic failure causing the vehicle to come crashing down. Also, it will wear parts out faster which can be expensive to replace.
Should I only buy an ALI/ANSI certified car lift?
If this is going to be used in a business, it is highly recommended and may be required depending on local laws. Even if it is not, lifts that meet ALI requirements have been independently tested and comply with all applicable safety standards, and are usually better built. For home use, unless you are using it on a daily basis this is less of an issue.
What are the costs of maintaining a car lift?
Many repair shops usually hire factory certified technicians to service the lifts as some components are specialized. This may also be required by local regulations as well. Also, there may be yearly certifications and those costs can add up over time. Parts can be expensive as well, especially the motors and they can cost a few hundred dollars.
For home use, having yearly inspections is probably not required but you have to consider the cost of parts and labor. They can add up over time, especially if you plan on using it regularly.
Where are the car lifts made?
All of them are made in China although that does not necessarily make them bad. Production standards have improved over time. There have been few issues with them and even then, most of the time it was due to operator error such as improperly placing the arms or lifting a load beyond the maximum capacity. The BendPaks are assembled here in the US.
Final Thoughts
With that said, floor lifts are very useful items in any garage whether it is for repairs or storage. They are essentials in a shop and a perfect addition for a home garage. There are some good choices for the professional mechanic and the do it yourself type of person. For a shop, durability and ALI/ANSI certifications are important and it is difficult to beat the BendPaks. They are an established name in the industry and offer a comprehensive warranty. The TCE T10000 is another solid option and like BendPak, they have been around for a while. Both have reputations for making quality products. For home use, as noted earlier, some of the cheaper models like the XK and Mayflower will do. Many people have them in their home garages and are quite happy.
For the four post lifts, these are more oriented towards home use although some of the BendPaks meet ALI/ANSI certifications. The Mayflower and Triumph NSS-8 are good entry-level models for home use and will be fine for general use. If it’s for a heavier vehicle or if used more frequently, the Triumph 9000NOS and BendPaks are good upgrades. For scissor lifts, there are fewer options as they are not too common anymore and two-post lifts are more versatile. For home use, the XK 6200 portable lift is difficult to beat for the money. It is compact, portable, and you don’t need to worry about weight considerations for the floor. Hopefully, this guide will assist you in choosing a lift that best meets your needs and there are a number of models to choose from on all budgets.
Sign Off
Give us a hand let us know in the comment section below if we missed any car lift that you think belongs on this list, also let us know if you have had any experiences with any of the products listed, we would love to read about them! From all of us here at Mechanic Approved we hope this article was useful for you and thank you for reading!
My name is Codi and I have been interested in automotive mechanics for as long as I can remember. Today I am a professional mechanic as well as a certified tire technician with over 10 years of combined professional experience.
I started this website because over the years I have noticed an increasing trend of false information among customers and automotive professionals alike. So I have gone to great lengths to provide the most factual information about tools, vehicles, companies, and other automotive products so that anyone can be provided with solid information on what they might be looking for.
I was born in South Florida and am currently located in Western Pennsylvania. I have seen how vehicles and tools respond to all types of weather conditions and scenarios over the years and I am happy to share every bit of automotive and mechanical knowledge I possess to help better inform the general public. Here at Mechanic Approved, our goal is to provide the best automotive mechanic information so that both customers and professionals can make better-informed purchases.