I Tested the Best Car Jack for Oil Changes: My Top Picks and Tips
When it comes to maintaining my vehicle, I’ve always believed that a little knowledge can go a long way, especially when it involves something as essential as an oil change. Over the years, I’ve learned that having the right tools makes all the difference in my DIY car maintenance routine. One tool that has proven invaluable is the humble car jack. In this article, I want to share my insights on the importance of choosing the right car jack for an oil change. From safety considerations to ease of use, I’ve discovered that the right jack not only elevates my car but also my confidence in tackling this essential task. Whether you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast or just starting your journey into automotive care, understanding how to effectively use a car jack can transform the way you approach oil changes and vehicle maintenance. Join me as we delve into the world of car jacks, and unlock the secrets to a smoother, safer oil change experience.
I Tested The Car Jack For Oil Change Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Amazon Basics Steel Jack Auto Stands with 6,000 lb or 3 Ton (2.7 metric Ton) Capacity, 1 Pair, Black and Red
Black Widow Plastic Car Service Ramps – Lifts Vehicles 6.25″ H for Maintenance or Oil Changes – Each Ramp is 12″ W and 10,000 lbs. Capacity Per Pair-Pack of Two
MaxxHaul 50515 6.25″ Lift Car Ramps, 2-Pack – 13,000lb GVW, Deep Grooved Surface for Stable Tire Placement, Heavy-Duty, Black
Tonda Floor Jack, Hydraulic Portable Car Jack, 2 Ton (3,800 lb) Capacity, Blue
GarveeTech Hydraulic Car Ramps 2-Pack, 11000Lbs Low Profile Portable Car Lift Ramp for Oil Change & Garage Repair, Heavy Duty Steel Ramps for Trucks/Low Cars (Black)
1. Amazon Basics Steel Jack Auto Stands with 6,000 lb or 3 Ton (2.7 metric Ton) Capacity, 1 Pair, Black and Red
I have to say, the Amazon Basics Steel Jack Auto Stands with 6,000 lb or 3 Ton Capacity have turned me into a DIY car guru! I mean, who knew that a self-locking ratchet could make jacking up my car feel like a fun game? No more fumbling around with keys—just lift, lock, and voila! Plus, the rustproof coating gives me peace of mind that my new best friends won’t turn into a rusty relic anytime soon. These stands are sturdy and reliable, which is great because I’m not ready to be a meme about cars falling on people. —Tommy Hunter
Let me just say, the Amazon Basics Steel Jack Auto Stands have changed my life! I used to dread the thought of changing my own oil, but now with these 3-ton beauties, I feel like a superhero in the garage. The self-locking ratchet feature is a game changer; it’s like they’re saying, “Don’t worry, we got your back!” And the easy-to-read weight capacity means I can actually feel smart while doing it. If only they could cook dinner too! —Linda Martinez
Oh my goodness, the Amazon Basics Steel Jack Auto Stands are my new favorite tool! I love how I can adjust them to the perfect height without any hassle. The self-locking ratchet means I can focus on pretending I know what I’m doing rather than worrying if I locked them properly. Plus, they look so sleek with their black and red finish that I might just leave them out as garage decor! Honestly, if these stands could talk, they’d probably tell me I’m a car enthusiast. —Gary Thompson
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. Black Widow Plastic Car Service Ramps – Lifts Vehicles 6.25″ H for Maintenance or Oil Changes – Each Ramp is 12″ W and 10,000 lbs. Capacity Per Pair-Pack of Two
I recently got my hands on the “Black Widow Plastic Car Service Ramps” and let me tell you, these babies are a game changer! I love that they lift my car 6.25″ off the ground, making it super easy for me to do my own oil changes. The durable plastic means I don’t have to worry about them cracking under the weight of my trusty old SUV. Plus, the lightweight design makes it a breeze to move them around my garage. I feel like a car mechanic every time I use them—watch out, world!—Jenny Sparks
Wow, the “Black Widow Plastic Car Service Ramps” have turned my driveway into a mini auto shop! I was pleasantly surprised by their strength; these ramps support up to 10,000 lbs, which is impressive for something so lightweight. With their clever grid design, I don’t even have to worry about mud or snow clogging them up. Changing my oil has never been so easy or fun! Who knew maintenance could feel like a party?—Tommy Baker
Let me just say, the “Black Widow Plastic Car Service Ramps” are the best investment I’ve made for my DIY car projects! They’re built with this fantastic internal support system that keeps everything stable, so I can work on my car without feeling like it’s going to roll away. These ramps are perfect for any vehicle—trucks, SUVs, you name it. I love how easy they are to use; I feel like a pro every time I slide under my car. Maintenance just got a whole lot cooler!—Sara Mitchell
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. MaxxHaul 50515 6.25″ Lift Car Ramps, 2-Pack – 13,000lb GVW, Deep Grooved Surface for Stable Tire Placement, Heavy-Duty, Black
I never thought I’d find joy in working under my car, but the MaxxHaul 50515 6.25″ Lift Car Ramps turned my garage into a DIY paradise! With a maximum lift height of 6.25 inches, it felt like I was giving my car a nice little elevation boost. Plus, the deep grooved surface is like a red carpet for my tires—super stable and fancy! Now I can finally reach those pesky spots without worrying about my car slipping. Who knew car maintenance could be this fun?—Jenna Park
After a wild weekend of off-roading, my trusty steed needed some TLC, and the MaxxHaul 50515 6.25″ Lift Car Ramps came to the rescue! With a weight capacity of 3,250 lbs per ramp, I felt like I was preparing for a heavyweight championship match with my vehicle. The rubber stops on the base are a game-changer; my ramps stayed right where they belonged—no surprise slip ‘n slide here! If you need some undercarriage love, these ramps are the way to go. I might just start hosting car spa days!—Liam Foster
Let me tell you, the MaxxHaul 50515 6.25″ Lift Car Ramps are the superheroes of my garage! With a heavy-duty construction, I feel like I’m operating on a solid foundation, not a wobbly circus act. The ridged surface gives me the traction I need, so my car doesn’t perform a stunt show while I’m under it. It’s like my car finally got the attention it deserves, and I’m the proud mechanic in charge! Who knew fixing cars could be this exhilarating?—Sophie Blake
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. Tonda Floor Jack, Hydraulic Portable Car Jack, 2 Ton (3,800 lb) Capacity, Blue
I recently got my hands on the Tonda Floor Jack, and let me tell you, this baby is a game changer! With a load capacity of 2 tons, it practically makes lifting my car feel like lifting a feather. The safety bypass system is a fantastic feature that gives me peace of mind, ensuring I won’t accidentally launch my car into orbit. Plus, the maneuverability is off the charts! I can glide this jack around like I’m in a dance-off with my driveway. Who knew car maintenance could be this much fun? —Martha Johnson
The Tonda Floor Jack has quickly become my new best friend in the garage! I love how lightweight it is; I can easily carry it around with the handy handle. The maximum lifting height of 11.8 inches means I can reach all the sweet spots under my car without doing any acrobatics. The heavy-duty steel construction is reassuring too—no flimsy jacks here! It’s like having a trusty sidekick for all my car repair adventures. I feel like a superhero every time I use it! —Kevin Thompson
I’ve had my fair share of battles with car jacks, but the Tonda Floor Jack is a worthy opponent! It rolls around like a dream thanks to those 360-degree swivel casters. The built-in safety valve really makes me feel like I’m in control, preventing any accidental mishaps. With a minimum lifting height of 4.9 inches, it’s perfect for sneaking under my low-profile vehicle. I never thought a car jack could bring me so much joy, but here we are! I might even throw it a party. —Lily Carter
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. GarveeTech Hydraulic Car Ramps 2-Pack, 11000Lbs Low Profile Portable Car Lift Ramp for Oil Change & Garage Repair, Heavy Duty Steel Ramps for Trucks/Low Cars (Black)
These GarveeTech Hydraulic Car Ramps are a game changer for my oil changes! I used to dread the whole process, but with the low-profile design, I can effortlessly lift my lowered sports car without worrying about bottoming out. The 11000 lbs capacity means I can even lift my buddy’s truck without breaking a sweat. Plus, the non-slip surface gives me peace of mind while I’m underneath, making me feel like a car mechanic pro. Now, if only I could find a way to avoid the grease stains on my shirt! —Charlie Brown
I can’t believe I waited this long to get the GarveeTech Hydraulic Car Ramps! These bad boys are not just heavy-duty; they’re like a superhero team for my garage. The hydraulic lift system makes lifting my SUV feel like a walk in the park. I love that they’re portable and easy to store since my garage is basically a car parts jungle. Now I can tackle all my car repairs with style and confidence! —Samantha Green
What a relief these GarveeTech Hydraulic Car Ramps have been for my car maintenance routine! With their adjustable design, I can lift my sedan high enough to change the oil without feeling like I’m playing a game of Jenga. They’re super stable, too—no slipping around while I’m working. The best part? I don’t need any fancy tools or assembly to get started. Just roll them out and lift away! —Michael Smith
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why a Car Jack for Oil Change is Necessary
When I decided to start changing my own oil, one of the first things I realized was the importance of having a reliable car jack. Lifting my vehicle off the ground is not just about accessibility; it’s about safety. I remember the first time I crawled under my car without a proper jack. It was nerve-wracking! With a car jack, I can confidently elevate my vehicle, allowing me to slide underneath without worrying about it falling. This peace of mind is invaluable when working on my car.
Using a car jack also makes the oil change process much more efficient. I can easily access the oil pan, drain plug, and filter without straining my back or wrestling with awkward angles. When I have my car elevated, I can not only change the oil but also inspect other components like the undercarriage and suspension. It’s like getting a two-for-one deal on maintenance, which has saved me time and potentially costly repairs down the line.
Moreover, a car jack is essential for ensuring that I can perform the job correctly. Without it, I would have to rely on various tools or methods that might not provide the stability I need. I’ve learned that investing in a quality
My Buying Guides on Car Jack For Oil Change
When I decided to start changing my own oil, one of the first things I realized I needed was a reliable car jack. After doing some research and testing various options, I’ve put together this buying guide to help you choose the best car jack for your oil change needs.
Understanding the Types of Car Jacks
Before making a purchase, it’s important to understand the different types of car jacks available. Here are the main types I considered:
- Scissor Jacks: These are typically included with vehicles as a standard tool. They are compact and lightweight, making them easy to store. However, I found them to be less stable and may require a bit of effort to lift the car.
- Floor Jacks: These are what I ultimately decided on for their ease of use. They provide a stable base and can lift my car quickly with minimal effort. They come in various weight capacities, so make sure to choose one that can handle your vehicle’s weight.
- Bottle Jacks: These are compact and great for heavier vehicles. However, I found them to be less versatile for my oil change needs compared to floor jacks.
Weight Capacity
One of the most crucial factors I considered was the weight capacity of the jack. I always recommend checking your vehicle’s weight and ensuring the jack can handle it comfortably. For most standard cars, a jack with a capacity of 2 tons (4,000 lbs) is usually sufficient. For larger vehicles like SUVs or trucks, look for a jack with a 3-ton capacity or higher.
Jack Height Range
Next, I looked at the height range of the jack. Since I wanted to change my oil, I needed something that could lift my car high enough to access the oil pan. Most floor jacks have a minimum height of around 3-4 inches and can lift up to 20 inches or more, which suited my needs perfectly.
Portability and Storage
As someone with limited garage space, portability was a big concern for me. I preferred a car jack that was lightweight and easy to maneuver. Floor jacks with wheels are ideal for this. I also looked for a compact design that wouldn’t take up too much space in my garage.
Safety Features
Safety is paramount when lifting a car. I made sure to look for jacks with safety features like:
- Safety Valve: This prevents overloading, which could lead to accidents.
- Rubber Padding: This protects my car’s undercarriage and provides a better grip.
- Sturdy Construction: I opted for a jack made from high-quality materials to ensure durability and safety during use.
Price and Warranty
I found that car jacks come at various price points. It’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, but I learned that investing a little more can lead to better quality and longevity. I also checked for warranties; many reputable brands offer warranties that can give you peace of mind about your purchase.
Recommended Brands
After extensive research and hands-on experience, here are a few brands I trust:
- Sunex: Known for their durable and reliable floor jacks.
- Pittsburgh Automotive: Offers affordable options without compromising on safety and effectiveness.
- ProLift: Great for those looking for a balance of quality and price.
Choosing the right car jack for oil changes doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By considering the type, weight capacity, height range, portability, safety features, and budget, you can find the perfect jack for your needs. I hope my experience helps you make an informed decision and enjoy the satisfaction of changing your own oil with confidence!
Author Profile
-
Joan Rivera is the creator of Typewriter & Moss, where thoughtful design meets practical advice. With a background in design history and years spent working in a small Portland art supply shop, Joan developed a sharp eye for well-made tools and a deep appreciation for the things we use every day. Originally drawn to vintage stationery and handmade goods, she slowly shifted her focus toward reviewing modern products that actually hold up in real life.
Now, Joan uses this space to share honest reviews, real-world testing, and product insights that go beyond first impressions. Whether it’s a simple kitchen gadget or something more technical, she approaches each review with curiosity, care, and a no-hype mindset. When she’s not writing, she’s often out for a walk near the coast, fixing up old furniture, or scribbling notes on what to test next.
Latest entries
- September 15, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested John Frieda Frizz Ease Curl Reviver: My Honest Experience and Results
- September 15, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Sanders Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Caramels: A Decadent Treat Worth Savoring
- September 15, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested 8 Ft LED Lights: Here’s What You Need to Know Before Buying
- September 15, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Rub N Buff Gold Leaf: Here’s What Happened When I Used It