Choosing a vehicle lift is a big decision, and the right one depends on what you lift, where it goes and the work you do. Answer the four questions below and we will point you to the lifts that fit. Still unsure? Call or WhatsApp us on 0116 4810180 and we will check your space with you.
1. What will you lift?
Low, lowered or sports cars
You need a lift that gets under the sills without scraping. Look at the minimum pad or platform height. See Lifts for Low Profile and Sports Cars, all 110mm or less.
Everyday cars and small SUVs
Most cars weigh under 2 tonnes, so a 3 or 3.5 tonne lift gives a safe margin. See Vehicle Lifts up to 3 Tonnes and 3 to 4 Tonne Vehicle Lifts.
Large SUVs, 4x4s, vans and motorhomes
Check the loaded weight of your heaviest vehicle and the wheelbase. See Van and Light Commercial Lifts and 4 to 5.5 Tonne Vehicle Lifts.
Minibuses, trucks, buses and coaches
Work from gross vehicle weight, not kerb weight. See 5.5 to 10 Tonne Vehicle Lifts, Heavy Duty Lifts over 10 Tonnes and Commercial Vehicle, HGV and Bus Lifts.
Motorcycles, quads and UTVs
2. Where will it go?
A home garage
Surface mounted and mobile lifts mean no pit to dig. See Home Garage Car Lifts.
A garage with a low ceiling
Measure the lowest point of your ceiling, including beams, lights and door tracks. Mid rise and low rise lifts need far less headroom. See Lifts for Low Ceiling Garages.
Somewhere you cannot fix to the floor
Mobile columns and portable lifts move between bays and store away. See Mobile Lifts, No Installation Needed.
Storing more cars in the same space
What about power and floor?
Many lifts run on single phase, others need three phase. Most fixed lifts need a sound concrete floor of the depth given in the specification. Each product page lists its power and floor needs, and we can check yours before you order.
3. What work will you do?
MOT testing
See Class IV MOT Lifts and Class VII MOT Lifts. Always confirm the lift's listed approval and the DVSA bay requirements.
Wheel alignment
Tyres and fast fit
Bodywork, prep and paint
Electric and hybrid vehicles
Restoration projects
4. Budget and installation
Finance is available to spread the cost. Professional installation is available through our trusted partners, and many lifts include free installation, so check each product page. Every lift comes with a manufacturer warranty.
Common questions
How much ceiling height do I need?
Add your tallest vehicle's height to the lift's maximum lifting height, then allow a margin. Low and mid rise lifts need much less. Send us your measurements and we will check.
2 post or 4 post?
A 2 post lift leaves the wheels free for suspension, brakes and exhaust work. A 4 post lift is drive on, suits storage and alignment, and needs no arm setting.
Can I fit a lift myself?
We recommend professional installation for every fixed lift. It protects your warranty and makes sure the lift is anchored and set up safely.
Talk to us: call or WhatsApp 0116 4810180 for help choosing the right lift for your space.
