Choosing the right car lift isn’t just about lifting power — it’s about garage layout, vehicle type, frequency of use, and safety. Whether you're outfitting a professional auto shop or maximizing space in your home garage, the best lift for you depends on solving the
specific problems you face.
We’ve helped thousands of mechanics, restoration shops, and DIYers select the right lift for their needs. Below, we break down the most popular types of car lifts — with real-world use cases, advantages, and what to watch out for.
Best for: Daily shop use, compact garages, general repairs
2-post lifts are the go-to for mechanics needing fast undercarriage access. These are
space-efficient and cost-effective, and many models can handle up to 10,000+ lbs. You’ll typically choose between:
Asymmetric lifts: Let you open car doors while raised — great for tighter bays or frequent entry.
Symmetric lifts: Offer better balance for heavier or longer vehicles (trucks, SUVs).
Pro Tip: If you're servicing both sedans and pickups, a dual-symmetric/asymmetric design (like the BendPak XPR-10AXLS) may be ideal.
Best for: Long-term storage, alignment jobs, large vehicles
4-post lifts offer
greater stability and most models up to 9,000 lbs don’t require anchoring. Heavier-duty versions may require anchoring depending on use and manufacturer guidelines. This makes them great for:
Long-term storage of classic cars
Alignment procedures (when equipped with slip plates)
Heavier loads, including trucks and vans
They take up more space than 2-posts but add
flexibility — many owners add rolling jacks to do tire/brake work on raised vehicles.
Best for: Commercial fleets, diesel repair shops, buses
These are built for the big jobs — with capacities from 18,000 to over 40,000 lbs. Look for enhanced safety features like redundant locks and wide runways.
Best for: Quick tire/brake jobs, low ceiling garages, mobility
If you’re tight on space or need portability, specialty lifts like
scissor lifts, low-rise lifts, and single-post lifts offer convenience without compromising safety. These are perfect for:
Best for: Suspension tuning, tire shops, performance work
These lifts integrate turn plates and slip plates for
precise wheel alignments. Many can double as a service lift with accessories, making them ideal for:
Tire/wheel shops
Performance tuners
Fleet alignment bays
✅ Not Sure What to Choose?
We’re happy to guide you. Whether you're looking for a home garage solution or outfitting a high-volume commercial shop, we can recommend the right lift based on
vehicle types, ceiling height, floor specs, and usage volume.
Call our team to get personalized recommendations!
We proudly offer many car lifts, including two-post, four-post, scissor, and portable lifts. On this page, you can search by price, brand, weight, or by ALI certification. You can also choose to search our subcategories, including specialty lifts, BendPak, Alignment, four posts, and more. Beneath our car lift categories, you'll find a variety of brand logos, each leading to a dedicated inventory page for easy browsing.
Sort through our inventory by price, popularity, or title, which helps guarantee that you find the perfect fit for your needs and budget. Whether you're a home enthusiast or a professional looking for dependable lifts, we offer unmatched variety at unbeatable prices. Plus, explore our convenient 6-month financing option, with no interest if paid in full within the specified timeframe! Check out our financing page for eligibility criteria and details.
With over 80 years of combined experience in the automotive industry, we cater to both residential and commercial needs, providing a large inventory trusted by mechanics nationwide. Here you can enjoy convenient browsing, competitive pricing, and flexible financing options, making your dream garage more attainable than ever.
Choose from over two hundred car lifts, truck lifts, and heavy-duty lift options, so there's a lift in stock to meet any needs. Keep an eye out for special offers, including qualifying for free shipping to the lower 48 states on select products. Just make sure you've checked your lift gate delivery or know if you have a rural shipping address for qualification requirements.
Have questions or need assistance selecting the perfect lift? We're here to help. Reach out to us today at 855-275-5141 Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm for expert guidance and personalized support. Elevate your automotive experience with us – shop Best Buy Auto Equipment today!
Car Lifts from Top Brands
Click the automotive manufacturer logos to view by that manufacturer:
Dannmar MaxJax Portable Two Post Car Lifting System 6,000 lb. Capacity
How much does it cost to install a car lift? The price to install a car lift depends on which kind of lift you're installing. For example, a two-post portable car lift probably won't involve modifications to cement flooring. A standard installation should be roughly $1,000 for a two-post car lift or four-post auto lift. In-ground car lifts can cost upwards of $10,000 to install.
How much is a 4-post car lift? A four-post car lift's price ranges depending on how many pounds it can carry. On average, a 6-7,000 lb. four-post car lift should cost around $3,000.
How high does a garage have to be for a lift? The optimal height you should have for your garage is about 11-12 feet of clearance for a new car lift.
What should I consider when choosing a car lift for my garage?
When selecting a car lift, consider the lift’s capacity, the height and weight of vehicles you will service, space constraints in your garage, and the specific services you intend to perform. It's also crucial to assess the lift's safety features and compliance with industry standards.
How often do car lifts need maintenance?
Regular maintenance is vital for ensuring the longevity and safety of your car lift. It’s recommended to perform a daily inspection of key components and schedule professional maintenance at least annually, depending on usage frequency and manufacturer’s guidelines.
Can car lifts be customized for specific vehicle types?
While the lift structures themselves cannot be physically modified, many car lifts can be customized with various accessories to accommodate specific vehicle types and sizes. Accessories such as truck adapters, drip trays, and rolling jacks can enhance the lift’s versatility, making it suitable for a broader range of automotive services.
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