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Whether you’re changing a flat tire or doing maintenance at home, one tool is essential—a good car jack. It’s not just about lifting your vehicle. It’s about doing it safely, quickly, and with confidence.
However, not all car jacks are created equal. Some are designed for emergency roadside fixes. Others work better in a garage. Some lift sedans, while others handle SUVs and trucks. So, how do you choose the best one?
Let’s break down the best car jacks in 2025, compare types, and help you pick the right one for your needs.
Why a Quality Car Jack Matters
A reliable car jack can save your life. It holds the entire weight of your vehicle while you work underneath it. If it fails, the consequences can be severe.
In addition to safety, a good jack makes tasks easier. It lifts faster. It stays stable. And it doesn’t leave you second-guessing every movement.
So even if you only use it twice a year, a top-tier jack is worth the investment.
Types of Car Jacks
Before choosing a car jack, you should know the main types:
1. Scissor Jacks: These are the most common jacks in trunk toolkits. They use a mechanical screw to lift the car. They’re compact and lightweight, but slow and hard to use for larger vehicles.
2. Floor Jacks (Trolley Jacks): Perfect for home garages. They use hydraulics to lift quickly and offer excellent stability. However, they’re heavy and not ideal for road emergencies.
3. Bottle Jacks: These utilize a hydraulic piston and are ideal for trucks and SUVs. They’re small but lift high. Still, they can be unstable on uneven ground.
4. Electric Jacks: These plug into your car’s 12V socket. They do the work for you. They’re great for roadside help, but often lack the lifting power of hydraulic jacks.
5. Hi-Lift Jacks: Ideal for off-road vehicles. They can lift high and handle tough terrain. But they require experience to use safely.
Knowing your car type and usage helps narrow down the best option.
Best Car Jacks in 2025
Here are the top-rated car jacks across different categories:
1. Arcan XL20 Black Low Profile Steel Service Jack
- Type: Floor jack
- Lifting range: 3.5″ to 18.5″
- Capacity: 2 tons
The Arcan XL20 is great for most sedans and sports cars. It has a low profile, allowing it to fit under cars with limited clearance. It lifts fast and feels solid under load.
Its build quality stands out. The reinforced arms and smooth-rolling wheels add to its reliability. However, it’s heavy and not very portable.
Still, for home garages, it’s a top choice.
2. Torin Big Red Hydraulic Bottle Jack
- Type: Bottle jack
- Lifting range: 7.5″ to 14.6″
- Capacity: 4 tons
This compact jack packs a punch. It’s ideal for trucks, SUVs, and trailers. Due to its height range and weight rating, it easily handles heavier loads.
However, it’s not great on gravel or slopes. You’ll need a level surface. For larger vehicles, though, it’s a budget-friendly and powerful option.
3. Powerbuilt 620471 Unijack
- Type: Hybrid bottle jack and jack stand
- Lifting range: 11″ to 21″
- Capacity: 3 tons
For added safety, the Powerbuilt Unijack combines a jack and stand into one tool. That means it can lift and hold the vehicle without the need for separate equipment.
This is especially helpful in the event of roadside emergencies. It’s easy to use and reduces setup time.
It’s also one of the most stable options for lifting trucks and Jeeps.
4. E-HEELP Electric Car Jack Kit
- Type: Electric scissor jack
- Lifting range: 4.7″ to 17.7″
- Capacity: 5 tons
For anyone who hates cranking by hand, this jack is a dream. Just plug it into your 12V outlet, press a button, and let it do the work.
The E-HEELP kit includes a jack, impact wrench, gloves, and more, packed in a compact case.
It’s perfect for roadside repairs. But it’s slower than hydraulic jacks and shouldn’t replace a floor jack for garage use.
5. Pro-Lift F-767 Grey Low Profile Floor Jack
- Type: Floor jack
- Lifting range: 3.5″ to 14″
- Capacity: 2 tons
This affordable jack is ideal for compact and mid-sized cars. It’s lightweight, easy to move, and quick to lift.
It’s not built for heavy-duty trucks. But for smaller vehicles, it offers great value. The low entry height is perfect for sports cars or modified rides.
Features to Look For
Choosing the best car jack depends on more than type. Here’s what else to consider:
- Lifting capacity: Always exceed your vehicle’s curb weight.
- Minimum height: The lower, the better for sports cars.
- Maximum height: The higher, the better for SUVs and trucks.
- Build material: Steel is stronger, aluminum is lighter.
- Portability: Consider how often you’ll move it.
- Safety features: Look for overload protection and stable bases.
Compare specs carefully before buying.
Safety Tips for Using a Car Jack
Even the best jack can be dangerous if used incorrectly. Here are key safety tips:
- Always use on flat, solid ground.
- Never work under a car supported only by a jack. Use jack stands.
- Engage the parking brake and block the wheels.
- Read the manual. Follow weight limits and instructions.
- Check your jack regularly for leaks or damage.
Stay cautious and always use proper gear.
Best Jack for Emergency Kits
If you need a jack for roadside emergencies, choose one that is compact, simple, and fast.
The E-HEELP Electric Car Jack Kit is great for this. It saves effort, fits in your trunk, and includes everything you need in one case.
Alternatively, a basic bottle jack and compact jack stand combo works well too—remember to keep gloves and a flashlight handy.
Best Jack for Garage Use
In a garage setting, you want speed, lift range, and stability. Floor jacks, such as the Arcan XL20 or Pro-Lift F-767, are excellent choices. Pair them with solid jack stands and you’re set for brake jobs, oil changes, and tire rotations.
They’re heavier, but the performance is worth it.
Final Thoughts
The best car jack isn’t just about lifting—it’s about doing the job safely and confidently. Whether you’re on the side of the road or in your driveway, having the right jack makes all the difference.
From electric jacks to heavy-duty bottle models, there’s an option for every vehicle and budget.
So take the time to choose wisely. Your safety—and your car—depend on it.
