July 30, 2025 Ben B

What Size Floor Jack Do I Need?

Finding the Right Floor Jack for Your Vehicle

If you’re like most folks shopping for their first Floor Jack, one of the first things you’ll ask is what size floor jack do I need. The answer depends on what you’re driving and how much weight you’re working with. Whether it’s a car, truck, or SUV, choosing the right jack size is key to lifting your vehicle safely and without a hassle.

Floor jack sizes are rated in tons. You’ll typically see 2-ton, 3-ton, and 4-ton models. To keep it simple, aim for a jack that can handle at least three-quarters of your vehicle’s total weight. You’re only lifting one end or one corner of the vehicle at a time, but it’s still smart to leave yourself some safety margin.

What Size Jack Do I Need for my Truck?

Before picking a jack, take a minute to find your vehicle’s weight. You can check the gross vehicle weight rating, or GVWR, by looking in your owner’s manual, checking the sticker on the driver-side door frame, or searching online with your make and model. Here’s a quick guide to average weight ranges by vehicle type:

Vehicle Type	Typical GVWR
Compact Car	2,700 – 3,500 lbs
Mid-Size Sedan	3,500 – 4,500 lbs
SUV	4,500 – 6,500 lbs
Half-Ton Truck	5,000 – 7,000 lbs
Heavy-Duty Truck	7,500 – 10,000+ lbs

Once you know the weight, divide that number by two and choose a jack that can comfortably support that load. If you’re still unsure what size jack do I need for my car, it’s safer to go up a size than to risk coming up short.

Matching Jack Size to Vehicle Type

For small cars and sedans, a 2-ton jack will usually do the job. If you’re working on a full-size sedan, crossover, or mid-size SUV, a 3-ton model is a better bet. Larger SUVs and trucks often need a 3-ton or even a 4-ton jack depending on their curb weight and lift points. If you're wondering what size floor jack for SUV or what size floor jack for truck is right, the safest answer is always the one that gives you extra lifting power and more height.

Vehicle Type	Recommended Jack Size
Small Car	2-ton
Mid-Size Car	2 to 3-ton
Full-Size Sedan	3-ton
SUV	3-ton
Half-Ton Truck	3 to 4-ton
Heavy Truck	4-ton or more

Still asking how many ton jack do I need or what size jack do I need for a truck? If in doubt, go higher. The extra strength and lift height are worth it.

Material Matters: Steel vs Aluminum

When shopping for a floor jack, it’s not just about size. Materials make a difference too. Most jacks are built from steel or aluminum, and some higher-end models combine both. Steel jacks are tough, affordable, and stable, which makes them great for home garages. Aluminum jacks are lightweight and easier to move around, perfect for those who need portability. Here’s a quick comparison:

Material	Pros	Cons
Steel	Durable/Lower cost	Heavier to move
Aluminum	Lightweight/Portable	More expensive, less rugged
Hybrid	Best of both	Higher price point

Unless you’re hauling the jack from one location to another all day, a solid steel jack is the better value. For track days or mobile work, aluminum saves your back.

How Many Ton Jack Do I Need? The Bottom Line:

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but once you know your vehicle’s weight and understand the types of car jack sizes out there, picking the right one gets a lot easier. A 3-ton floor jack works for most vehicles and gives you the extra reach and muscle without going overboard. If you’ve got multiple vehicles in the garage, it's usually better to size up than to regret going too small.

Still not sure what size floor jack for your truck or SUV makes the most sense? Browse our full collection of floor jacks and get the right setup for your home garage or shop. Quality jacks, fast shipping, no fluff.

Popular Floor Jack Brands Include: Norco, Hein-Werner, and BlackHawk Automotive