An automotive floor jack uses hydraulics to raise and lower heavy vehicles, usually personal cars and trucks. This type of floor jack is placed flat on the ground during use. Every automotive floor jack is rated for different weights, generally ranging from two to twenty tons. The hydraulic lift system can be used to easily lift heavy vehicles simply by pumping the long arm extending from the jack’s body. In this way, the automotive floor jack allows the mechanic to change tires or to remove the tires in order to check brake systems, examine undercarriage damage, or check exhaust pipes, among other applications.
An automotive floor jack is not used as often as a hydraulic lift when it comes to car repair shops. For quick tire changes and undercarriage checks, however, a floor jack is the best tool. In addition, the floor jack is commonly used in racing to lift each side of the car and to change the tires out quickly.