All About Automotive Floor Jacks

Automotive floor jacks come in all types, styles and models which can often make it confusing to know just what you really need. That said, there are some basics to look for in a car jack. Here's a look at that, as well as some safety tips.

When it comes to searching for an auto floor jack to purchase, be sure to look for those that are rated at a 2.5 ton minimum lifting capacity. You want something that is strong, stable and durable and won't be prone to easily slipping or falling. Another quick tip here is to make sure the jack has a flanged edge that fits along the mainframe.

The next question you may have is just how much am I looking at having to spend on a floor jack for my vehicle? The answer is that it depends on the make and model you opt of obviously. But, you can save yourself some money by going with a generic brand. Prices can range from around $100 for a generic model of jack to around $275 for basically the same exact jack in a name brand. So don't fall into the trap of believing that you have to go with some nationally recognized name brand in order to get a quality floor jack because it just isn't true.

Automotive Floor Jack Safety Tips

There are some basic safety tips when it comes to using any brand of jack on your car, truck or van.

1. Be sure the floor surface is free of any debris. Something like a small rock can create an unstable situation real quick. Suddenly, as you jack up the car it begins to shift and may even slip and fall down. You should consider wiggling the handle on the jack slightly to be sure there is no "play" in it and that everything is stable.

2. When you get the car jacked up, put jack stands underneath it. The most important takeaway here is to never set the wheels or brake rotors down onto a block of wood or something else. Always use jack stands.

3. No one should be getting in or out of the vehicle that is jacked up while someone is underneath of it. If you need someone to be inside the car to bleed the brakes for example, get out from under it while they are either getting in or out of the vehicle. Not doing so is just a recipe for a disaster or even death.