May 20, 2025 Ben B

Types of Vehicle Lifts

🔧 Types of Automotive Lifts - What's Right for You?

Not all heroes wear capes, and not all car lifts are built the same. Whether you're a mechanic or just tired of crawling under your truck on jack stands, picking the right lift can change the way you work—and save your knees.

Let’s break down the main types of automotive lifts so you can find what fits your space, your workload, and your budget.

🛠️ 2 Post Car Lifts

If you’re planning to do real undercar work—brakes, suspension, engine stuff—this is the lift you want. A 2 post picks up your car by the frame and gives you full access underneath. Doesn’t eat up your whole garage either. Keep in mind there's a symmetric and asymmetric option.

Full undercar access for real repair work
Takes up less space than 4-posts
Usually the most affordable pro-style lift
Lifts most cars and light trucks
Fast raise/lower time

🚗 4 Post Car Lifts

This one’s the jack-of-all-trades. Drive right on and lift the whole car with a 4 post vehicle lift. Great for storage, oil changes, or keeping that classic car out of the way. Super stable and easier for first-time users.

Park one car over the other
Easy for alignments and oil changes
Works well for bigger trucks/SUVs
Beginner-friendly — just drive on
Rock solid and safe

🎯 Alignment Lifts

Car pulling to one side? Worn tires? These are built for alignment work. They’ve got built-in turn plates, jacks, and setup for fine-tuning your suspension and steering.

Designed for precise tire and steering work
Built-in slip plates and jacking beams
Great for tire shops or serious DIYers
Helps prevent uneven tire wear
Essential if you're offering alignment services

✂️ Car Scissor Lifts

These are your quick-job champs. Compact and easy to use, scissor lifts are perfect for tire work, detailing, or light repairs. Don’t expect full access underneath, but for quick jobs, scissor lifts are solid.

Great for tight garages or low ceilings
Perfect for tires, brakes, and quick jobs
Some models are portable
Budget-friendly
Quick setup — in and out

🧱 Single Post Car Lifts

Need a lift but short on space? A single post lift gets the job done for smaller cars and light maintenance without taking over your garage. Simple and clean.

Super compact footprint
Easy to install and move
Keeps your floor wide open
Works well for small cars and motorcycles
Good for detailing and light work

🚛 Mobile Column Lifts

When you're dealing with heavy-duty vehicles like trucks, buses, or large commercial fleets, Mobile Column Lifts offer unmatched flexibility and power. These lifts consist of individual columns that can be positioned around the vehicle, allowing for customizable configurations and efficient use of space.

Ideal for lifting heavy-duty vehicles with varying wheelbases
Each column operates independently, providing flexibility in setup
Wireless and battery-powered options reduce cable clutter
Can be used indoors or outdoors, maximizing workspace utility
Scalable systems allow for lifting different vehicle sizes and weights

Regardless what types of car lift you're looking to purchase, HeavyLift Direct has all the options and expertise to help you with your decision.