One of the most common DIY car maintenance tasks is changing your own oil. While many enthusiasts debate between using jack stands and ramps, the reality is that ramps for changing oil in a car are often the safest, fastest, and easiest option—especially for beginners or those working with limited space. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about car ramps, including why they matter, the best options for different vehicles, and how they compare to other lifting tools.
>> Get your SLR Ramps here <<
Why Use Ramps for Oil Changes?
Ramps are a go-to solution for at-home oil changes because they provide stability and simplicity. Unlike jacks or jack stands, ramps allow you to simply drive onto them, making the process quicker and safer. Benefits include:
- Safety: A wide base prevents tipping and keeps your car stable.
- Ease of Use: Drive-on design saves time compared to jacking each corner.
- Low Profile Options: Perfect for lowered cars or performance vehicles that traditional ramps can’t accommodate.
- Durability: High-quality ramps can support thousands of pounds without failure.
Low Profile Car Ramps for Sports Cars
If you own a lowered car like a BMW, Nissan 350Z, or Corvette, you know that clearance is everything. Standard ramps often cause scraping or won’t fit at all. Low-profile oil change ramps solve this problem with extended lengths and shallow approach angles.
For track and drift cars, low-profile ramps are especially valuable because they prevent damage to aftermarket lips, splitters, or side skirts.
Plastic vs. Steel Ramps: Which is Better?
When shopping for ramps, you’ll see both heavy-duty plastic and steel options. Each has pros and cons:
- Plastic Ramps: Lightweight, easier to move, resistant to rust, and often feature molded grips for tires.
- Steel Ramps: Very durable, high weight capacity, but heavier and prone to rust if not coated properly.
For most DIY oil changes, modern heavy-duty plastic ramps are more than enough to get the job done safely.
How Do Ramps Compare to Jack Stands?
A common debate in the car community is whether ramps or jack stands are better. Both have their place:
- Ramps: Safer and faster for oil changes, transmission fluid swaps, or exhaust work.
- Jack Stands: Better for suspension jobs, tire changes, or when wheels need to come off.
For oil changes specifically, ramps almost always win for convenience and safety.
Best Ramps for DIY Oil Changes in 2025
If you’re looking for the best ramps available today, here are the key things to consider:
- Weight Rating: Ensure the ramps can support your vehicle’s curb weight plus a margin of safety.
- Length and Angle: Lower cars need longer ramps with shallower approach angles.
- Surface Grip: Look for non-slip designs that prevent tires from rolling back.
- Portability: Split ramps or lightweight designs make storage and transport easier.
At SLRspeed, we offer low profile race ramps specifically designed for lowered and performance cars. These ramps combine safety, style, and ease of use for all types of enthusiasts.
Step-by-Step: How to Use Ramps for an Oil Change
Here’s a simple checklist for using ramps safely:
- Position ramps on a flat, solid surface.
- Align your car’s tires with the ramps and drive up slowly.
- Once the car is in position, apply the parking brake and place wheel chocks behind the rear tires.
- Check stability before sliding under the car.
- Perform your oil change with confidence.
Safety Tips for Oil Change Ramps
While ramps are safer than many alternatives, always follow these safety tips:
- Never exceed the ramp’s rated weight capacity.
- Use on level ground to prevent sliding.
- Double-check tire alignment before driving up.
- Combine ramps with wheel chocks for maximum stability.
Conclusion
Investing in quality ramps for changing oil in your car is one of the best decisions you can make as a DIY car owner. They provide a safe, reliable, and efficient way to access your vehicle’s underside without the hassle of jacks or stands. Whether you drive a lowered sports car or a daily commuter, ramps simplify maintenance while keeping you safe. For the best options on the market, explore the selection of oil change ramps at SLRspeed today.
