Car Ramp 

How to Choose the Right Car Ramp

Choosing the right car ramp depends on the vehicle weight, ground clearance, required working height and intended maintenance task. Workshops should also consider ramp material, approach angle, storage requirements and rated load capacity.

Why Use a Car Ramp Instead of a Floor Jack?

Car ramps provide a wide and stable support surface for inspections, oil changes and other under-vehicle maintenance tasks. Drive-on designs are faster to position than floor jacks and maintain a fixed working height without relying on hydraulic pressure.

However, ramps are not suitable for every repair. A floor jack and correctly rated jack stands may still be required when the wheels must be removed or the suspension needs to remain unloaded.

Types of Car Ramps

Fixed Steel Ramps
Suitable for routine inspections, oil changes and workshop maintenance where strength and durability are priorities.

Hydraulic Car Ramps
Allow the vehicle to be driven onto the platform and raised further, providing adjustable working clearance.

Plastic or Reinforced Polymer Ramps
Lightweight, corrosion-resistant and easier to transport or store. Commonly used for low-profile vehicles and vehicle leveling.

Heavy-Duty Truck Ramps
Designed for commercial vehicles, fleet workshops and higher load capacities. Always confirm the rated capacity and compatible vehicle type.

Key Factors to Check Before Buying

Load Capacity
Select ramps with a clearly marked rated capacity suitable for the vehicle being serviced. Confirm whether the rating applies per ramp or per pair.

Approach Angle
Low-profile cars require longer ramps with a shallower incline to reduce the risk of bumper, splitter or underbody contact.

Ramp Width
The platform must be wide enough for the vehicle’s tyre size and provide sufficient guidance during positioning.

Working Height
Choose a lift height that provides suitable access without exceeding the ramp’s intended operating range.

Material and Portability
Steel ramps suit frequent workshop use, while reinforced polymer ramps are lighter and easier to move or store.

Car Ramp Safety and Maintenance

Always use car ramps on a hard, level and stable surface. Align the ramps with the tyres, drive onto them slowly and confirm that the vehicle is correctly positioned before beginning work.

Before each use, inspect steel ramps for damaged welds, corrosion, deformation or loose components. Check plastic ramps for cracks, stress marks or structural damage. Never use damaged ramps or exceed the marked load capacity.

Apply the parking brake, place the transmission in the recommended position and use wheel chocks where required. Follow the ramp manufacturer’s instructions and the vehicle manufacturer’s approved maintenance procedures.