Car jacks are some of the most important automotive tools out there, aside from ramps. They’re not particularly sophisticated, but they can be a lifesaver if you’re stuck on the roadside with a flat tyre. So, if you’re in the market to buy the best car jack for your car, you’ve come to the right place.
When choosing a car jack, you should consider your vehicle’s height and weight. The car jack must be short enough to fit under the vehicle and strong enough to carry your car’s weight and raise it high enough to allow you to work underneath. Also, consider where you’ll use the jack. Roadside jacks are compact but unstable. Garage type jacks are big and heavy.
In this article, we’re going to explore the basics of car jacks, including the factors to consider when shopping for the best car jack for your vehicle.
Why Is a Car Jack Called a Jack?
To start things off, let’s address the elephant in the room. Why on earth is it called a ‘jack’ in the first place?
As you might imagine, car jacks have been around for a very long time, but the term ‘jack’ has been around even longer. In the 16th century, things or devices used to replace human labour were called jack. In this case, a car jack was an equipment used to lift an automobile to save on the cost of human labour to do that job.
Are Car Jacks Universal?
No, car jacks are not universal, and there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution for what car jacks do.
For starters, car jacks come in different shapes and sizes, all of which fall into different categories based on their operating mechanisms. Each of the types applies to different vehicles and situations.
For instance, some car jacks are best suited for light vehicles in roadside emergencies, while others are designed for heavy-duty usage indoors.
To understand this better, let’s take a closer look at the different jack mechanisms available.
Different Types of Car Jack Mechanisms
The three carjack mechanisms you must know about are the jackscrew, hydraulics, and pneumatics. Here are the primary differences between each of those mechanisms:
- Jackscrew: This is the most basic mechanism used in simple carjacks. It works by turning a large threaded screw inside the jack, which pushes the car's weight upward. The user turns the screw, and the screw pushes the car's weight upwards.
For that reason, car jacks using this mechanism are sometimes called ‘screw jacks’ instead.
If your car came with a car jack in its emergency kit, it is likely the type that uses a jackscrew mechanism.
- Hydraulic Car Jack: A hydraulic car jack is also very common for both domestic and professional use. This mechanism works by employing fluids to move parts that will lift the vehicle.
When shopping for the best car jack lift, you are most likely going to purchase one that uses a hydraulic mechanism.
- Pneumatic Car Jack: Pneumatics and hydraulics are often confused with one another. While hydraulic car jacks use fluids to move different parts, pneumatics do the same with pressurised gases. You’ll often find this type of jack used in professional settings in the form of an electric car jack.
How Do I Choose the Best Car Jack for My Car?
Now that you know what type of car jack mechanisms are available, let's look at what to consider as you shop for the best car jack.
Vehicle Height
Firstly, all vehicles stand at a different height off the ground. Some are higher, while others are lower. That’s why you must find a car jack that fits under your car and capable of lifting it high enough for you to work underneath.
Remember: it’s not enough that the car jack can reach your car’s underside. It must also be able to lift your car high enough to be helpful.
Vehicle Weight
Next, you will also need to take into consideration the weight of the vehicle. All car jacks are rated to carry a specific weight, so you must choose one to handle your vehicle.
If you're driving a light vehicle like a sedan, you won't have to worry at all. However, larger vehicles like SUVs and trucks certainly need a car jack to safely lift and sustain all that weight.
Your Purpose
Aside from weight and height, you'll also need to consider the intended purpose of the car jack. For example, are you keeping the car jack in your car for roadside emergencies? Or are you perhaps looking to place it in your garage or workshop as you work on your project car?
Choosing a Car Jack Based on Intended Use
You’ll see why it’s crucial to ask these questions
For Roadside Emergencies
Suggestion: Buy a Scissor Jack
If you’re looking for a car jack to change a flat tyre on the roadside, then you’ll want something like a scissor jack. It is a very low-profile car jack that uses a jackscrew mechanism, and it’s easy to store in the boot of your car or under your seat.
While this compact car jack is suitable for short-term use in emergencies, a scissor jack is not the kind of equipment you’ll want to use in your garage for long-term repairs. In addition, this type of car jack does not provide enough stability for extended use and turning the screw just to move the car up or down as needed can be exhausting.
A scissor jack is more practical than a bottle jack or floor jack (explained later). In these situations, a bottle jack is unstable to use on the roadside and might fall over. On the other hand, a floor jack is heavy and takes up too much space to keep in your trunk.
For Garages or Workshops
Suggestion: Buy a Bottle Jack or Floor Jack
Bottle jacks and floor jacks both rely on hydraulic mechanisms to lift your car. They're suited for use in a garage or workshop because they make it very easy to raise and lower your car whenever you need to.
Of course, they’re not suitable for roadside use most of the time because they’re too big and heavy. Plus, bottle jacks are taller and less stable when you place them on the ground next to a road.
Other Considerations
No matter what type of car jack you choose, you should keep in mind these important considerations:
Broad Base: Always choose a car jack with a broader base. With all that weight resting on the jack, a wider base reduces the chance of it falling over and dropping the vehicle.
Handle Size and Comfort: You’ll be using your hands and a lot of physical power to operate the jack. So, make sure they have a more oversized handle that’s easy and comfortable to grip. Again, this small detail will go a very long way.
Car Jack Stands and Wheel Chocks: Car jacks are not meant to be used by themselves. You will need reliable car jack stands and wheel chocks as well. Once the car is lifted with a jack, you'll place the jack stands to prevent the car from falling. Likewise, chocking the wheels will ensure that the vehicle doesn't roll even an inch, which could spell trouble for you as you work underneath the car.
To learn more about car jacks and other auto accessories, check out the blog at Carpart.com.au.
By Ray Hasbollah