Need a safe, fast way to change your oil at home? Whether you're wrenching on a slammed sports car or maintaining a full-size truck, having the right set of ramps can make oil changes faster, safer, and far less messy. In this guide, we’ll cover the best ramps for changing oil in your car across all budgets and vehicle types in 2025.
This is a supplement to our Ultimate Oil Change Ramp Guide—helping you find the exact ramp setup that fits your car and your workflow.
Why Car Ramps Are a Must for DIY Oil Changes
Jack stands can be slow. Lifts are expensive. Floor jacks are risky if not supported correctly. Car ramps offer a stable, repeatable, and quick lift—perfect for oil drains, filter swaps, and basic underbody checks.
Top Benefits:
- ✔️ Quick to set up
- ✔️ Lower chance of vehicle shifting
- ✔️ Wide tire support & anti-slip base
- ✔️ Great for garages with low ceilings
Top Ramp Features to Look For
Here are the critical features to prioritize when choosing car ramps for oil changes:
- Weight Capacity: Always buy ramps that exceed your vehicle’s curb weight by 25–30%
- Ramp Angle: Low-profile ramps (8–11° approach) are essential for lowered cars
- Material: High-strength plastic or reinforced steel for stability and corrosion resistance
- Surface Texture: Treaded or grooved surface prevents slippage during ascent
- Stop Blocks: Built-in tire stops ensure safe positioning every time
Best Ramps for Changing Oil by Vehicle Type
🏎️ Sports Cars & Low Clearance Vehicles
- Race Ramps 56” or 67”: Lightweight, high-grip, ideal for lowered cars and front lips
- RhinoGear RhinoRamps Low-Profile: Affordable and accessible for slightly lowered rides
🚗 Sedans, Coupes, Hatchbacks
- MaxxHaul Heavy Duty Plastic Ramps: Rated for up to 16,000 lbs, great general-purpose use
- FloTool 11909ABMI: Versatile and compact design with integrated stop blocks
🛻 Trucks & SUVs
- RhinoRamps MAX: 16,000 lbs capacity with extra height and strength for heavy-duty vehicles
- Pyle Car Service Ramp Set: Steel construction ideal for lifted vehicles or off-roaders
How to Safely Use Car Ramps
- Check ramp placement on a flat, clean surface
- Slowly drive onto the ramps, maintaining a straight line
- Stop gently when the tires reach the end blocks
- Engage the parking brake and add wheel chocks behind the rear tires
- Confirm car is stable before going underneath
Common Oil Change Ramp Mistakes
- ❌ Using ramps on uneven or slippery surfaces
- ❌ Skipping wheel chocks on the opposite end
- ❌ Overloading ramps past rated weight
- ❌ Using ramps on very steep approach angles without support
FAQ: Ramps for Oil Changes
Can I use ramps for oil changes on a lowered car?
Yes—look for low-profile ramps with gradual inclines like Race Ramps or RhinoGear’s lowered variants.
Are ramps safer than jacks?
In most cases, yes. Ramps provide full tire contact and distribute weight more evenly than jack stands.
Do I need a jack if I use ramps?
No, but having a jack on hand can help fine-tune access or support more complex maintenance jobs.
Where can I get high-quality car ramps?
You can explore our full ramp recommendations in this in-depth ramp guide.
Final Verdict: Choose Ramps That Match Your Car & Setup
Investing in the right car ramps for oil changes is one of the smartest moves for home mechanics. Whether you’re rolling under a Z, daily driver, or full-size truck, there’s a safe, durable ramp set that fits your needs—and makes every oil change faster and cleaner.
