If you're like most people, your garage is your go-to spot for parking your car. But it can be more than that with a two-post car lift. A car lift can make your garage more versatile, giving you space to work on your car, carry out thorough underside inspections, clean, or do general repairs.
Two-post car lifts are the best option for people with a home garage as they don't take up too much space. This type of car lift is a great tool that'll help you maintain your vehicles and help increase their lifespan, enhance their performance, and reduce maintenance costs in the long term.
So, whether you are a professional or a hobby mechanic, or just an enthusiastic car owner having a home garage car lift will undoubtedly come in handy when servicing and maintaining your cars.
That said, it is important to be informed about all of your options before you decide which 2 post car lifts will work best for you and your needs. In this article, we will go over the best two post-car lifts for your home garage and some of the most essential features that people look for when choosing a car lift so that you can find one that suits your specific needs.
Related: How To Position A Truck On A 2 Post Car Lift
The following list includes the top 10 best two post car lifts for home garages in 2022 based on quality, safety, and price:
9 Of The Best Two Post Car Lifts On The Market
Editor's Pick
BendPak XPR-10S 2-Post Car Lift 10,000 Lb. Capacity
The BendPak XPR-10S two-post car lift is perfect for home and commercial use. This industrial-strength car lift offers exceptional direct-drive lifting performance, cutting-edge technology, top of the line materials, and a 10,000 lb. lifting capacity.
If you're looking for an exceptional car lift that will offer you years of reliable service, the XPR-10S is a good choice.
"a design that's ahead of its time"
With its precision direct-drive system, the XPR-10S is capable of handling heavy trucks with ease. Plus, the innovative design means that it's ahead of its time - so you can be sure that you're getting the very best in terms of performance and durability.
If you're looking for uncompromising quality and lifting performance, look no further than the BendPak XPR-10S two-post lift.
RELATED: Where Are Bendpak Lifts Made?
Features & Specs
- Easy to use and built to safety standards. Meets and surpasses OSHA/ALI/ETL requirements.
- Customizable for your specific lifting needs
- Highly sophisticated design with simple maintenance
- Best value among competing brands with powerful lift capacity.
- Features an adjustable top beam to accommodate wide or narrow installation setups
- Double-telescoping screw pads with gouge & tear-resistant polyurethane pads
Great Value
Tuxedo TP9KACX Asymmetric Two Post Vehicle Lift (9,000 lbs.)
With 9000lbs capacity, the Tuxedo Asymmetric car lift is perfect for home garages. It has a unique design that makes it easy to use, with an asymmetric arm configuration that provides more clearance under the vehicle. It also comes with low profile drop-in lift pads that make it easy to change height settings.
The Tuxedo 9,000 lb two post clear floor lift combines a one-piece column with uprights and reliable chain drive cylinders that make it the perfect service lift for most standard passenger vehicles, light-duty trucks and light SUVs. The lift is also equipped with a full-featured control panel, dual point carriage lock releases, and emergency overhead safety.
"Drop-in adjustable swivel pads with height adapters."
The asymmetric arm configuration provides a clear working space under the vehicle and greater access to hard-to-fit areas vehicles. The uprights can be positioned at an angle from side to side, depending upon your needs.
The automatic arm restraints and durable powder-coat finish provide an economically priced lift with great value and all the necessary lift features!
Features & Specs
- Reaches maximum height in just 50 seconds.
- Single piece column construction.
- Overhead shutoff killswitch to protect the vehicle's roof
- Rubber door guard protection to protect the car against nicks and dings
- Slightly reduced width compared to most lift models –takes up less floor space.
- Internal hose routing designed to protect the pressure hoses from damage
Best Portable Car Lift
MaxJax M6K Portable Two-Post Garage Car Lift 6,000 Lb Capacity
The MaxJax M6K is a heavy-duty portable two-post car lift that easily accommodates most sedans and sports cars. It uses low-pressure direct-drive cylinders (HVLP) that helps eliminate the need for using lifting chains or screw mechanisms. At the same time, the rugged safety lock bars and arm restraints automatically engage each time the lift is raised, making it safe and reliable –capable of holding three times the rated lifting capacity!
"Quick, Easy Setup"
What's more, the M6K MaxJax portable car lift uses threaded concrete anchors and quick-connect hydraulic couplers that make it easy to transport and set up in minutes – making it the perfect choice for home mechanics who need a car lift that is both portable and reliable.
A world-class customer service team also backs the M6K Majmax portable car lifts, so you can be sure that you're getting the best in terms of quality and customer service.
Features & Specs
- It's easy to use and install on the go - can be set up by one person in minutes
- Pneumatic low-pressure cylinders for a safe and smooth lift
- Telescoping screw pads with gouge & tear-resistant polyurethane pads
- 6000 lb. lifting capacity - perfect for most sedans and sports cars
- Powder-coated finish for rust protection
- Solid steel construction for durability
- Equalized lifting that guarantees smooth and even lifts every time.
- Detailed installation, maintenance, and safety instructions are included.
Best Heavy-Duty Model
BendPak Heavy Duty XPR Two Post Lift, 18, 000 Lb Capacity
The BendPak Heavy Duty XPR two-post car lift is perfect for home and commercial garages that need a heavy-duty car lift with a high lifting capacity. With its 18,000 lb. lifting capacity, this industrial-strength car lift can handle most trucks, vans and SUVs with ease (even those with running boards or auxiliary fuel tanks. ).
Like most BendPak two-post car lifts, it has exceptional clear floor clearance, exceptional direct-drive lifting performance, super-duty maximum capacity, and a low-maintenance design that won't let you down.
The low-pressure dual HVLP direct-drive guarantees minimal to zero leakage, offers better reliability and provides smoother operation. For commercial-grade two post car lifts, the direct-drive technology is preferred as it has fewer moving parts compared to a chain over roller cylinder configuration.
"16-Piece Adapter Set / Standard."
..which include four 3" stackable adapters, four 6" stackable adapters, four 6" stackable adapters and four polyurethane contact pads.
If you're looking for an exceptional car lift for your trucks or a commercial garage that will offer years of reliable service, the BendPak XPR-18CL-192 is an excellent option.
Features & Specs
- It is suited for shops with ceilings higher than 16.
- HVLP direct-drive cylinders reduce maintenance costs throughout the life of your lift.
- Excellent overhead clearance that makes car servicing easy.
- Low-profile, dropped-end frame contact pads.
- Lowered arm tube supports for better clearance.
- Automatic arm restraints for easy positioning.
- Maintenance-free UHMW (ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene) load bearings.
- Auto shutoff feature activates if the vehicle comes in contact with an overhead structure.
- "Dead man" style Single-point safety release operation controls.
Best Symmetrical & asymmetrical combo lift
APlusLift Two-Post Overhead Auto Car Lift 10,000 lbs
The Aplus HW-10KOH-A car lift is among the best 2-post car lifts. With durability and quality in mind, Aplus has upgraded and equipped this lift with a heavy-duty steel frame construction.
The upgrades done to the Aplus lift include:
- Column Steel upgraded to 13/64" from 11/64"
- Carriage and Arm Steel upgraded to 15/64" from 3/16"
- Carriage yoke upgraded to 9/16" from 15/64"
Aside from strength, the frame is powder-coated to give it anti-rusting properties preventing corrosion, rusting and regular wear & tear, guaranteeing long uninterrupted service & durability.
The dual motors provide the ability to hoist vehicles from its low profile lifting base and up to a height of 6'9″, which is high enough to provide you with ample space to carry out your maintenance or repairs.
Another significant attribute of this car lift is its safety and stability features. The whole structure is robot-welded, guaranteeing a sound lift with no faults, while the dual-safety auto-lock system ensures safe operation by locking the arms in place when raised.
Features & Specs
- Symmetrical & asymmetrical combo arm assembly with screw-in pads!
- Heavy-duty steel lifting carriage
- Auto-lock safety system
- CE approved
- Robot-welded steel structure
- Dual hydraulic cylinders
- Door guards protection rubber
- Manual lowering operation
- 220V 3HP motor
Triumph NT-9FP Two-Post Auto Lift, 9000 lbs Capacity
Triumph is a notable brand name in the auto lift manufacturing scene, and Triumph NT-9FP car lift is an example of their quality product.
Unlike most two-post car lifts, The Triumph two post auto lift lacks an upper beam. While this might be a slight disadvantage as your vehicle doesn't have extra top protection, it allows for a maximum lift of 72″. This decent election height combined with a lifting capacity of 9,000 lbs and 96" width between the posts allows you to efficiently work on the underside of any sedan and small to medium minivans, light-duty trucks or SUVs.
Features & Specs
- A set of truck adapters & floor adapters
- 72" lifting height, 102" drive-through width
- Asymmetrical lift configuration
- 2×2 and 2×3 stage arms
- 220V single phase motor
Best Symmetrical lift
Dannmar D2-12C Symmetric Clearfloor Heavy-Duty 12,000 Capacity
Convenient is the right term to use to describe the Dannmar heavy-duty vehicle lift. It has a unique dual-width asymmetric design that can lift a variety of different-sized vehicles with ease. The Dannmar D-12C is perfect for home garages, and it has a lifting capacity of 12,000 pounds. This powerful automotive lift will quickly raise just about any truck, SUV, minivan or regular passenger car.
With a closed top design, the D2-12C is Dannmar's provides adequate floor convenience. It allows and creates space for uninterrupted working space, making it easy to roll floor jacks, tool boxes, and other equipment underneath the elevated vehicle. This reduces the chances of mistakingly banging through a floor-mounted hydraulic line panel.
"reliable, safe & durable."
This Dannmar's is loaded with a ton of useful features that make car lifting a breeze. The triple telescopic arm sets combined with the three-stage front and three-stage rear arms allow for a greater maximum reach with minimum retraction.
The extended height columns increase overhead clearance, while the adjustable top beam is designed to accommodate wide or narrow installation setups. The 30 degrees rotated column provides ample room for door opening clearance if you have to access the car's interior.
Features & Specs
- Overhead safety bar that prevents the vehicle's roof from getting damaged.
- direct drive hydraulic cylinders
- Dual-synchronized equalization system and Heavy-duty 1/2" aircraft-quality equalizer for stable lifting.
- The single point lock release allows for safe operation.
- Symmetrically or asymmetrically combo
- Robust lift posts guarantee both safety & reliability
- Automatic arm restraints and safety locks in each column spaced every 3.".
- Triple-telescoping arms provide an increased range.
- Durable rubber lift pads with stackable adapters.
- expandable top beam accommodating both wide & narrow drive through settings
- Good for small to midsize vehicles such as SUVs, small trucks, vans, and sedans.
If most of your clients have 1-ton diesel vehicles (or larger) with a 4x4 wheel drive system and extra equipment, you should consider the Dannmar's two-post D2-15C below.
Best 2 post lift for diesel trucks
Dannmar D2-15C Symmetric Clearfloor Heavy-Duty 15,000 Capacity
The Dannmar DMS-15C is a versatile option for professional mechanics and body shops.
With the Dannmar D2-15C-Series, you get a heavy-duty two-post car lift that can handle up to 15,000 pounds. That's more than enough for the average vehicle, and it makes this one of the most versatile lifts on the market.
The industrial-grade free-flow, high-pressure 3/8" hydraulic cylinders and telescopic arms are designed to lift up to 15,000 lbs. with ease safely. This makes the Dannmar DMS-15C perfect for use in a busy shop or garage, and it can easily accommodate most heavy-duty vehicles.
Safety is the number one priority when using automotive lifts. The Dannmar DMS 15C is equipped with a two-point manual release system for safe operation. It also has an automatic arm restraint (AAR) system that utilizes a single-point safety release. This allows you to operate the lift with ease, knowing that your vehicle is safe and secure.
"extended height columns"
The columns provide extra overhead clearance, while the adjustable top beam allows for both wide or narrow installation setups to fit most garages. The symmetrical design of the automotive lift means that it can be used for either right- or left-handed vehicles, and it's perfect for small to midsize cars, trucks, vans, and SUVs.
The Dannmar DMS-15C lift is also equipped with a heavy-duty telescopic arm system that gives you an expanded range of reach to get your car high enough off the ground so as not to risk damage from floor jacks or other equipment while working underneath it. The free flow hydraulic cylinders are designed for high performance and reliability, making this lift a great choice for any professional mechanic or body shop.
Features & Specs
- The clear floor arrangement for an unobstructed working space
- Well suited for heavy-duty lifting.
- Self-lubricating polyethylene bearings
- Wide structure design that allows for an easy drive in even for trucks with towing mirrors
- Multi-piece adapter set & drop-in contact pads
- Durable, rubber lift pads with stackable adapters
- High-low pump and integrated AC power unit.
Best 2 post car lift with floor plate
TUXEDO TP12KFX 2-Post Lift w/Floor Plate (12,000 lbs. Capacity)
The Tuxedo two post floor plate lift is a 12,000 lb. capacity two-post lift that includes a floor plate to make it easier to work on the underside of your vehicle. This lift can handle most cars and light trucks without any problems, making it an ideal choice for home garages or small repair shops.
It has a maximum lift height of 76.5″ and an extended overall height of 121.5″, making it ideal for adequately lifting most vehicles. While it's pretty huge, it is relatively easy to install and use. It only requires two people to set it up within just a few hours.
The wide base plates provide extra stability adding to the safety when you are doing your car maintenance, even on heavy vehicles –it gives you a peace of mind you get knowing your vehicle isn't going anywhere during service.
- Outstanding lifting capacity 12,000 lbs ideal for heavy-duty trucks
- Robust & durable steel construction with a powdered finish
- Easy to install and use
- Chain drive cylinders
- Rubber door guards and height adapters included
- Symmetric arms and three stages front arms
- high-quality hydraulic system
Factors to Consider When Buying a 2-Post Lift
A 2-post vehicle lift is an essential tool for any garage that needs to work on multiple types of vehicles. There are many factors to consider before buying, including the type of vehicle you want to use it with and how much weight it can handle. Here are some things you should think about when deciding which car lift is suitable for your garage.
User-Friendliness
The most important considerations when choosing a car lift are the user-friendliness of the machine and its safety features. Are all components easy to use, or do they require special training? Is it easy to load your vehicle onto the platform, and is there room for you to move around as needed while working on it? If not, how easily can you modify the machine to make it easier?
The more user-friendly a car lift is, the safer and more comfortable you will be while using it. Always ask yourself what would happen if something went wrong during the use of your new equipment. If there are no safety features on a particular model in question, consider installing or getting a different model.
Size and Weight Capacity
The size of the platform is important for many reasons. If you have a very large vehicle, it needs to be able to handle that weight safely. There are different ways manufacturers do this, including designing their machines with more comprehensive platforms or adding extra supports if needed. This also applies in reverse; some lifts can only handle vehicles up to a certain weight, such as 2000 pounds.
If you have more than one type of vehicle with which you want to use the lift, make sure the model you choose can accommodate both cars. Buying a separate car lift for each type of car will be expensive and unnecessary if one machine can do the job.
If you are planning on working with both SUVs and sedans, look for a car lift that can handle the weight of an SUV but has a smaller footprint. This will make it easier to get your vehicle into place without taking up too much room in your garage or causing issues with other equipment nearby.
Pricing
Of course, the price is also something you should consider when choosing the best car lift. However, it should not be your only consideration. It's better to spend more money on something that will last for years than buy inexpensive equipment and have to replace it in a few months because of poor quality or design flaws.
Purchasing from an established manufacturer like BendPak, Dannmar, or Maxjax can save you headaches down the road. Not only will they have a good reputation, but they will also offer customer service in case you need help with your machine.
When comparing prices, be sure to ask about any shipping or installation fees that may apply. Some companies include these charges in the lift price, while others do not. It's important to know what you're getting into before making a purchase.
Installation, Maintenance And Space
Most car lifts can be installed by two people in less than a day. However, this will vary depending on the machine and where you have it placed. If you have to hire someone for installation or repair work, consider how much time that person will need along with any other costs involved, before making your decision.
If possible, try out several different car lifts in person before making your purchase. This will help you get a feel for the machine and see how much space it takes up. You don't want to buy something that doesn't fit in your garage or is challenging to move around (if you are looking for something portable)
Durability
Durability is another important factor to consider when purchasing a car lift. How long will the machine last with regular use? Are there any parts that are likely to wear down quickly or require replacement often?
Look for a car lift that comes with a warranty, either from the manufacturer or the retailer you purchase it from. This can give you some peace of mind and help you avoid costly repairs later on. You should check on the lift's structure –the more robust the steel, the better.
You can also check for other things like robot welding and powder coating, among others.
Warranty
Always check the warranty before buying a car lift. A good warranty will cover both parts and labour in case something goes wrong with your machine. It is also important to find out what is not covered by the warranty, so you are not surprised down the road.
Most manufacturers usually provide a base level of coverage for defects, but this may not be enough if something malfunctions during normal use within that timeframe.
Company Reputation & Customer Support
When looking at car lifts, it is important to consider the company's reputation. Do they have a good track record? Are their products reliable? Make sure the company you buy from has a good reputation and offers customer support in case of problems with your machine.
If something doesn't work when your car is stuck midway in the lift, you want to know you can contact a company that will help you out. A good car lift manufacturer should be willing and able to provide support for its products, including installation, repair or replacement if something goes wrong.
Quality Certification
Some car lifts manufacturers take their products beyond just meeting the minimum requirements for safety. They also offer certifications related to quality, efficiency and performance that make them stand out from other brands on the market.
These accreditations signify better design procedures or higher-quality parts that will last longer. It's a good sign that the manufacturer is invested in building a quality product.
Verdict
The right car lift for your garage is not always easy to find. That's because car lifts are complex machines that require careful consideration before purchase, especially if you have a specific use for them in mind. Not all 2-post vehicle lifts can handle the weight of an SUV or large pickup truck, and some only work with certain types of vehicles on their frame. It is important to consider these factors first so you can avoid being stuck with a machine that cannot perform as needed.
When you consider all of the important pre-buy factors, it's easy to see that there is no "one size fits all" solution when it comes to choosing the best car lift for your needs. Take the time to figure out what you need and what will work best in your garage before making a purchase. With so many different models on the market, you are sure to find one that works perfectly for your needs.
Two Post Lifts; FAQ's
Where should a 2 post lift be placed?
Ideally, a two-post lift should be placed in an open area with plenty of space around it so the vehicle can be easily lifted and lowered. It should also have plenty of room to drive into, at least 13 feet away from the door, so the car doesn't stick out of the door when you have it elevated. Avoid placing the lift near any walls or obstacles that could interfere with its operation.
How thick should concrete be for a 2-post lift?
Concrete should be at least four inches thick of reinforced concrete slab for a two-post lift. Anything less can result in the posts wobbling and eventually sinking into the ground.
Read more about the concrete thickness for car lifts here.
What's better, 2 or 4 post lift?
This depends on several factors, including the size and type of vehicle you want to lift, how big your garage is, and whether or not the two-post lift has sufficient clearance. A four-post lift is better for larger vehicles and heavier loads, while a two-post lift is more compact and can be used in smaller garages.
Also, four post lifts require more space compared to a two-post lift, but they are more beginner-friendly. It's much easier to load and position a vehicle on a four post compared to a 2-post lift.
See our article on the best 4 post car lifts.
Can you put a car lift in your driveway?
Most lifts are designed to be used indoors as they are not well suited for outdoor use. When lifts are exposed to temperatures and weather elements, the wear and tear on the machine increases.
There is also a factor of municipality laws. It's important to check with your municipality first to make sure it's legal. You may also need a permit and/or insurance if you decide to go this route. It's always best to consult with a professional installer before installing the lift outdoors.
Can you store a car under a two-post lift?
It is not advisable to store a vehicle under a two-post lift. First, your car suspension is not built to be hanging for extended periods (although you can use wheel adapters :)). Secondly, in case of any damage, your warranty will be void should anything go wrong.
Are portable lifts safe?
Yes, portable lifts are very safe when used correctly. They are designed to comply with all industry standards and requirements. You can also use additional safety straps or chains if you want extra assurance that it will not move while in use.
