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How to Choose the Right Car Ramps for Oil Changes: A Guide for Low Cars, Daily Drivers & DIY Garages

How to Choose the Right Car Ramps for Oil Changes: A Guide for Low Cars, Daily Drivers & DIY Garages

Doing your own oil change saves money, gives you control over quality, and can even be kind of fun — until you realize your car is too low to get up standard ramps. If you've ever struggled with jacks or crushed plastic ramps under a lowered car, this guide is for you.

We'll break down exactly what to look for in a set of car ramps for oil changes, including options that actually work with lowered cars, sports cars, and daily drivers. Plus, we’ll show you the ramps SLR drivers actually trust.

Why You Should Use Car Ramps Instead of Jack Stands

  • Speed: Roll up, change oil, roll off. No jacking or wheel removal.
  • Safety: Wide bases reduce the risk of failure or tipping.
  • Garage-Friendly: Perfect for tight driveways or garages with low ceiling clearance.

Plus, modern ramps like our split-style Race Ramps work with lowered chassis without scraping.

Biggest Issue: Normal Ramps Don't Work on Low Cars

Traditional ramps have steep angles and tall break-over points — terrible for lowered vehicles. Cars with coilovers, lip kits, or factory sport suspensions often can’t even get halfway up before hitting something expensive.

What to Look For in the Best Oil Change Ramps

  • Low approach angle: Ramps with an 8–10° incline are ideal.
  • Split design: Lets you remove the ramp section after the car is in place, giving you better access.
  • Non-slip material: Prevents sliding on concrete or epoxy garage floors.
  • Lightweight and stackable: Easier to store in a tight space than steel ramps.
  • Weight rated: At least 1,500 lbs per ramp (3,000 lbs+ total).

Top Pick: SLR Low Profile Race Ramps

These ramps were developed with actual drift and grip teams. Unlike basic auto parts store ramps, they:

  • Handle slammed cars with ease
  • Break apart to improve access underneath
  • Don't flex, crack, or shift while in use
  • Look professional in any garage or paddock

They’re a favorite among teams who need to jack cars on the road or change fluids between sessions. They're also perfect for home mechanics who want something they can trust — and reuse for years.

Compare: Race Ramps vs Plastic or Steel Ramps

Feature Plastic Ramps Steel Ramps SLR Race Ramps
Low Car Clearance
Split/Modular Design
Non-slip Surface
Storage Convenience

Tips for Using Car Ramps Safely

  • Always check ramp alignment before driving up
  • Use on flat, clean, dry surfaces
  • Have a second person spot you for extra low cars
  • Engage the parking brake once positioned

And always double-check that your oil drain plug and filter are accessible once the car is up. Some ramps are too steep and block access — not an issue with our split design.

Conclusion: Make Oil Changes Easy Again

If you’re serious about doing your own oil changes — especially on lowered cars — stop fighting junk ramps. Our SLR Low Profile Race Ramps are designed to save time, preserve safety, and protect your car's front bumper.

Trust what pro drivers use — and make your garage workflow smooth, safe, and effective.

See the full ramp guide →

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