Performing oil changes at home saves money and provides peace of mind, but one question always comes up: how do you safely raise your vehicle? While jacks and jack stands are one option, many DIY mechanics and professionals agree that ramps for changing oil in cars are safer, faster, and more convenient. This guide will explain why car ramps are the best choice for oil changes, how to pick the right ones for your vehicle, and the features that matter most when choosing the best oil change ramps.
For our dedicated breakdown of the best products available, check out the original guide here: The Ultimate Guide to Car Ramps for Oil Change.
Why Use Ramps for Oil Changes?
Car ramps are designed to elevate your vehicle evenly and securely, providing plenty of clearance for oil changes and other underbody maintenance. Compared to floor jacks and stands, ramps offer:
- Stability: Less risk of tipping or shifting compared to jacks.
- Speed: Drive-on design makes setup much faster.
- Convenience: Perfect for quick DIY oil changes in a driveway or garage.
- Durability: Heavy-duty ramps can last for years with minimal maintenance.
Types of Car Ramps for Oil Changes
Plastic Car Ramps
Lightweight and affordable, plastic ramps are popular for small to mid-size vehicles. Many modern plastic ramps are reinforced and can support up to 8,000 lbs.
Steel Car Ramps
Stronger and more durable than plastic, steel ramps are great for heavier trucks and SUVs. However, they tend to be bulkier and heavier to move.
Aluminum Car Ramps
A balance of strength and weight, aluminum ramps are corrosion-resistant and portable, making them an excellent long-term investment.
Low Profile Car Ramps
Designed for sports cars and lowered vehicles, low profile ramps feature gradual inclines that prevent scraping bumpers and splitters during oil changes.
Key Features to Look For
- Weight Capacity: Always choose ramps that exceed your vehicle’s curb weight.
- Width and Clearance: Ensure ramps fit your tire width and provide enough clearance underneath.
- Anti-Slip Surface: Look for textured surfaces or rubber pads for added safety.
- Stackable or Split Design: Some ramps separate for easy storage or for positioning jacks in between.
- Gradual Slope: Especially important for lowered cars to prevent damage.
Ramps vs Jacks for Oil Changes
Many ask whether they should use jacks or ramps for oil changes. While jacks and stands provide full wheel-off access, ramps are faster, more stable, and often safer for simple underbody maintenance like oil changes. For most DIY mechanics, ramps are the superior option unless major suspension work is needed.
How to Safely Use Car Ramps
- Park on a flat, solid surface.
- Place the ramps in front of your drive wheels.
- Slowly drive forward until the wheels are centered on the ramps.
- Engage the parking brake and place wheel chocks behind the rear tires.
- Always double-check stability before getting under the car.
Best Scenarios for Using Oil Change Ramps
- DIY Oil Changes: Quick, repeatable setup for regular maintenance.
- Garage Use: Compact ramps are easy to store between uses.
- Track or Motorsports: Split ramps allow both oil service and easy access to underbody components at the track.
- Trucks and SUVs: Heavy-duty ramps provide reliable elevation for larger vehicles.
FAQs: Ramps for Changing Oil in Car
Are ramps safe for oil changes?
Yes. When used on level ground with chocks, ramps are one of the safest ways to elevate your car for oil changes.
Do low cars need special ramps?
Yes. Sports cars and lowered vehicles require low-profile ramps with gradual slopes to prevent bumper damage.
Can ramps replace a lift?
Not entirely. Ramps are excellent for oil changes and simple maintenance but don’t provide full access for suspension work where wheels need removal.
Conclusion: Why Ramps Are the Best Choice for DIY Oil Changes
When it comes to ramps for changing oil in cars, the benefits are clear: they’re safe, fast, and easy to use. From plastic and steel to aluminum and low-profile designs, there’s a set of oil change ramps for every vehicle type. If you want reliable, repeatable maintenance without the hassle of jacks and stands, investing in quality car ramps is the way to go.
For the most trusted options available today, check out our full breakdown here: The Ultimate Guide to Car Ramps for Oil Change.
