Performing oil changes safely requires preparation, the right tools and equipment, and following a few non-negotiable safety protocols. Techs rushing through an oil change could make mistakes that could damage the engine. Hydraulic lifts are a great way to do that, but might not always be the best option for mobile techs or quick bays. So the type of car ramp your shop uses can impact how efficiently your technicians are able to complete this routine service.
We’re here to break down the best car ramps for oil changes so you can find the perfect fit for your fleet or personal vehicle. This guide covers how to choose the right ramps, will review the top models, and discuss the safety best practices so you are fully equipped.
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What is a car ramp?
Car ramps are a convenient solution to pull or back a vehicle onto inside your auto repair shop. They save you significant time from operating a traditional lift, allowing you to increase mechanic efficiency on core maintenance needs like oil changes. In easier words, it is a car lift for oil change.
Ramps come in many shapes, sizes and materials, which we will cover. There are even options for low-profile cars.
10 best car ramps for oil changes
1. Rhino Ramp MAX (11912MI)
Best overall for trucks and SUVs.
Rhino Ram MAX has a strong and lightweight design. These work well with many different vehicle types, but are great for trucks and SUVs mainly because of its 16,000 lbs GVW capacity per pair. It is made of heavy-duty resin, with a 17 degree angle for low clearance vehicles. It is also known for its unique nesting design. This helps your garage save storage space. This also has the widest ramp on the market, and has Core-Trac non-skid feet and tread pattern that provides secure operation.
Although it comes highly recommended, some customers have reported the ramps cracking or collapsing under heavier vehicles, or the ramps sliding and not lifting the vehicle high enough.
2. Race Ramps RR-56
Best for low-profile vehicles.
The Race Ramps RR-56 is a great choice for low-profile cars because of its 10.8 degree angle of approach. It has a 10-inch height, with high-density foam construction and rugged anti-slip coating for optimal performance. It is lightweight but sturdy, and has a load capacity of 6,000 lbs. These ramps are portable too, and are easy for carrying and storage.
If your auto shop works with low-profile cars for maintenance, then this is a great option. But, it is not suitable for trucks or SUVs exceeding the 1,500 lbs weight limit per ramp or high-bodied cars.
3. Black Widow PSR295
Best budget option.
The Black Widow PSR295 lifts cars and trucks 6.25 inch off the ground for routine maintenance and oil changes. It is lightweight, so it can be stored easily. The best part is the grid design that allows snow, water, and debris to filter through. These ramps are also sturdy and can take 10,000 lbs GVW. These have rubber feet as well to prevent slipping when in use.
4. BI Supply Vehicle Ramps
Best for SUVs, vans and pick-up trucks.
The BI Supply Vehicle Ramps have a weight capacity of 10,000 lbs. It can lift vehicle 6.3 inches off the ground so you can safely change oil, transmission fluid or drive belt. These are great for SUVs, vans and pick-up trucks but can also work well for low-profile vehicles.
These have a textured surface that provides excellent traction plus, the non-skid base pads keep them securely. It is best to use these on a flat for floor for optimal stability. These are designed for easy transportation, and are considered great value for money. But, some customers did report cracks, while some found it extremely durable.
5. Nicky Nice Solid Steel Auto Ramp
Best for DIY mechanics.
The Nicky Nice Solid Steel auto ramp is a versatile ramp with a maximum weight capacity of 6,000 lbs. It allows tire width up to 9-inches. The height is 9 inches as well so there is enough space to work under the vehicle. These steel ramps are well-made, sturdy, and easy-to-use. But, some users did report issues with the slide resistance, and said the ramps were sliding on concrete floors.
This is a great option for DIY mechanics and automotive enthusiasts alike for maintenance and repairs on low-profile vehicles. It is also recommended for technicians who need strong ramps to load and unload heavy equipment. But, its not suitable for casual users or shops that have a limited space.
6. Roblock Heavy Duty Car Ramp
Best for pickup trucks, SUVs, cars, light truck or light agricultural vehicles.
The Roblock heavy-duty car ramp has a load capacity of 13,000 lbs. It can lift 6.1 inches off the ground, so you can change oil easily. This lightweight ramp is suitable for home repairs and professional automotive service shops alike. Plus, this can support 12 inch wide wheels. It is made of heavy duty plastic which can support the weight of the vehicle. But, the slip resistance gets mixed feedback from customers. Some say vehicles don’t slip and slide and others report them sliding in the garage.
7. Techtongda 3 Ton Ramps
Best for trucks, vans, SUVs.
The Techtongda 3-ton wide car service ramps can lift your car to 10 inches to change oil, transmission fluid, drive belt etc. They are heavier than a few other lightweight options, but the sturdy construction means reliable performance. The pair can hold a weight of 6,600 lbs.
It can also lift lower clearance vehicles such as sports cars. It is also suitable for tires up to 9 inches wide. The thickened non-slip texture increases frictions, and reduces wheel skids.
8. Lockietta Hydraulic Car Ramps
Best for auto shops and tire services.
The Lockietta hydraulic car ramp has heavy-duty construction. It is made of structural steel and can withstand intense loads. It has a rust-resistant coating that protects against corrosion and also makes it durable. It’s load capacity is up to 11,000 lbs and can lift up to a height of 14 inches.
It is also compact which makes it easy to store in home garages or professional workshops and tire services. It has anti-slip treads and automatic safety locks which makes it very safe for technicians.
9. FloTool Rhino Ramps (11909MI)
Best for home garage use.
The FloTool Rhino Ramps are great for a home garage where you need to fix or check your car, or change the oil. These can take on 12,000 lbs GVW, and are big enough for 9 inch wide tires. It has a 17 degree angle that allows you to work with low clearance vehicles. This also comes with a CoreTrack non-skid base which stops the car from sliding around when you’re driving the acr onto the ramps.
10. Discount Ramps 66” Sports Car Ramps
Best for sports cars.
The Discount Ramps 66” sports car ramps are great to lift vehicles with low ground clearance. It has a 11.5 degree loading angle and can lift the vehicle 7 inches off the ground. It has a load capacity of 3,000 lbs. These are well-built, and made of aluminium. They are easy to drive on and are considered a good value for money. But, many customers report that the rubber pads come off easily. The aluminium construction also gets mixed reviews.
Heavy-duty car ramps for oil changes
If your auto shop works with larger vehicles, like trucks or even fleets of trucks, vans etc then a simple car ramp won’t work. Your shop will have to invest in a heavy duty car ramp for oil changes.
Trucks and fleet vehicles will need a car ramp
- That is specifically designed for trucks. It should be able to handle weight between 12,000 lbs to 20,000 lbs.
- Made of steel, since they need it to be durable and strong. This car ramp should be able to handle the high Gross Vehicle Weight.
- With a wider ramp since trucks have larger tire widths.
Since heavy-duty trucks deal with larger vehicles, safety is a huge concern too. The ramp needs to be secure with a tire stop, anti-slip surfaces, and must have a wide, solid base. The RhinoRamp MAX is a good option for heavy-duty vehicles. With a Gross Vehicle Weight capacity of 16,000 lbs, it is a good choice for trucks and SUVs. The material isn’t steel, but plastic. It is durable and can take heavy vehicles.
So if your shop specializes in catering to larger vehicles or fleet vehicles, then getting a heavy-duty ramp is a good choice for you.
Safety tips for car ramps
Like we’ve already established, safety is very important in an auto shop, especially when your technicians are directly working with the equipment. You need safety protocols in place to prevent accidents.
A few things to remember:
- Always use on a flat, level surface. Don’t place them on an inclined surface. The wheels of the vehicle should also be straight and never turned.
- Don’t exceed weight limits. Follow the recommended limits from the ramp manufacturers.
- Regularly check ramps for cracks or rust before each use.
- Use wheel chocks to stop any accidental movement or rolling of parked cars.
Choosing the best car ramps for vehicle maintenance
1. Check the gross vehicle weight (GVW) capacity of the car ramps
Safety is your top most priority. You need a car ramp that can take on the weight of the vehicles you work with. Each ramp has a weight limit, and a vehicle over that limit should not go on the ramp. It could be dangerous for the technicians working on the ramp. Do a quick check and see the vehicles your shop is most likely to service. Check their weight too.
The Gross Vehicle Weight is the weight of the vehicle plus the maximum load it can carry, including passengers, fuel, and cargo etc, whereas the axle weight is the weight on each individual axle. Checking for both ensures safety, stability, and of course, legal compliance.
2. Understand the angle of approach
This is necessary for low-profile vehicles to avoid scraping the nose of the vehicle you’re working on. If your auto shop works on low-profile vehicles, it is a good idea to get a ramp made for it.
3. Check the tire width
The ramp needs to be wide enough for the vehicle’s tires so it fits on the ramp perfectly. Likely, your shop will be servicing many different vehicles. Make sure the ramp you eventually use will fit with all the vehicles you work on.
4. Confirm the material
You can choose either a steel car ramp or a plastic/resin one. The steel one is durable but it can also be heavy to manage and rusts faster. The plastic/resin one on the other hand is lightweight and won’t rust. It is also surprisingly strong. You can choose which material to go for based on your shops requirements.
5. Ease of storing and carrying
A car ramp is not a small piece of equipment. It takes up space, and is heavy too. Plus you also need enough space in your shop to keep them away from rain.
6. Look for safety features
Your car ramp needs to be safe for your technicians to work with. Check if it has non-skid bases or rubber pads on the bottom. It also needs to have a built-in hump or a tire stop that stops the car from sliding off. Plus make sure it has a wide base to reduce the risk of tipping.
Final thoughts
The car ramp you get for your auto shop ultimately depends on your budget, the available space and most importantly the types of vehicles your shop works with. But this is an investment, as oil change is a regular maintenance service and you must offer it in your shop. It opens up a new revenue stream for you. Use this guide to choose the best car ramp for oil changes in your auto shop.
FAQS:
What are the best car ramps for heavy-duty trucks?
The best car ramps for heavy-duty trucks are Rhino Ramp MAX that can take on a load of 16,000 lbs.
Are car ramps safer than jacks?
Car ramps are safer and more stable than jacks for oil changes because of the width, and solid support.
How much weight are car ramps rated for?
Car ramps are rated to hold different weights, typically ranging from around 10,000 to 20,000 pounds, depending on the specific model.
How do I choose car ramps for vehicle maintenance on a low car?
To choose a car ramp for vehicle maintenance on a low car, get a ramp with an incline between 10-15 degrees, and a long, gradual rise to stop bumper damage.
