If you’re like me, you love working on your car at home. I’ve spent countless hours under my cars—changing oil, brakes, or suspension parts.
At first, I worried about safety, especially with lowered cars. You know, the ones that sit a bit closer to the ground.
When I got my first QuickJack, I asked myself the same question everyone does: “Are QuickJacks safe for lowered cars in home garages?” After weeks of using them and testing different setups, I have some real insights to share. Let me walk you through what I learned.
Understanding QuickJacks
QuickJacks are portable car lifts. They are hydraulic and let you lift a car quickly and evenly.
Unlike floor jacks, which lift from one point at a time, QuickJacks raise the car from both sides simultaneously. This means less wobble and more stability.
They come in different models like the QuickJack 3500 vs 5000, depending on your car’s weight and garage size. The 3500 handles lighter cars, while the 5000 can lift heavier vehicles safely.
Why Lowered Cars Are Tricky
Lowered cars look cool, but they pose unique challenges. The main issue is the reduced ground clearance.
Most jacks need a little space under the chassis to fit safely. If your car is very low, you might scrape or even damage the frame.
This is why many people hesitate before using a QuickJack.
But the truth is, with the right model and setup, QuickJacks can lift lowered cars safely—sometimes even safer than traditional jack stands.
Safety Features That Matter
QuickJacks come with built-in safety locks. These locks prevent the lift from dropping suddenly. There are also pads and adapters that adjust to different car heights.
I always check two things before lifting:
That the lift pads make solid contact with the car’s jacking points.
That the surface under the lift is level and firm.
When both conditions are met, QuickJacks are extremely safe—even for cars that barely clear the driveway.
Comparing QuickJacks with Traditional Jack Stands
I used jack stands for years. They work, but they are not always easy with lowered cars. Sometimes you need extra ramps or blocks to get the stands under the car.
It’s tricky and can feel unstable.
QuickJacks remove that struggle. They lift both sides at once, and you don’t have to crawl under the car to adjust the stands.
Plus, there’s less chance of tipping if you follow the instructions.
Choosing the Right QuickJack for a Lowered Car
Not all QuickJacks are equal. For lowered cars, you need a model with:
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Low-profile lifting arms
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Adjustable lifting pads
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Enough weight capacity for your vehicle
For example, the QuickJack BL-5000SLX is perfect for low cars like sports or performance vehicles. It fits under the car without scraping and can lift safely even on a concrete garage floor.
Tips for Lifting a Lowered Car
I follow these tips every time I use my QuickJack:
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Park on a flat, solid surface. Never on gravel or uneven concrete.
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Measure the jacking points before lifting. Make sure the pads touch the reinforced spots under the car.
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Lift slowly and watch the car as it rises. Stop if you see any shifting.
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Use wheel chocks for extra safety.
These simple steps make the lift safer and reduce any risk of damaging your car.
Common Concerns
Many people worry about QuickJacks slipping or hydraulic failure. From my experience:
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Hydraulic systems are very reliable when maintained. I check mine for leaks and fluid levels regularly.
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Slippage is rare if the pads are aligned correctly with the car’s jacking points.
Lowered cars may need a little patience. I sometimes need to roll the lift slightly back and forth to find the perfect fit. But once it’s positioned, the car is solid.
Advantages Over Floor Jacks
Floor jacks can lift a lowered car, but they have limits. They lift only one point at a time. It’s easy to tilt the car accidentally.
QuickJacks lift both sides evenly, reducing stress on the frame. They save time, too. What takes 10–15 minutes with a floor jack and stands takes 2–3 minutes with a QuickJack.
Are QuickJacks Worth the Investment?
Some might say, “Why spend $1,200–$1,500 on a lift when stands cost $50?” Here’s my take:
If you work on cars frequently, the time saved, reduced risk of damage, and peace of mind are worth every dollar. Plus, portable lifts like QuickJack let you handle lowered cars safely—something traditional jacks struggle with.
I still keep jack stands as a backup, but my QuickJack is my daily tool.
Maintenance for Safety
QuickJacks need care to stay safe:
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Keep hydraulic fluid at recommended levels
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Inspect hoses and fittings regularly
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Clean the lift after use to prevent dirt buildup
I treat my QuickJack like a part of my garage family. A well-maintained lift lasts years and keeps my lowered car safe.
FAQ
Q: Are QuickJacks safe for home garages?
Yes. When used on a flat, firm surface and with proper alignment, QuickJacks are extremely safe for lifting cars at home.
Q: Can I lift any lowered car with a QuickJack?
Most lowered cars fit, but you need to check ground clearance and choose a low-profile model. Models like the BL-5000SLX work best for sports and performance vehicles.
Q: How do QuickJacks work?
They use hydraulic cylinders powered by a pump. You slide the frames under the car and press a button to lift both sides evenly.
Q: Do I still need jack stands with a QuickJack?
It’s wise to keep jack stands as a backup. QuickJacks are reliable, but extra safety is always smart.
Q: Can I use QuickJacks on uneven concrete?
No. Always use a flat, solid surface. Uneven ground can reduce stability and increase risk.
My Personal Verdict
After years of using both jack stands and QuickJacks, here’s what I feel:
QuickJacks are safe, fast, and reliable for lowered cars. They reduce the risk of tipping and make garage work easier.
Traditional stands are fine for occasional jobs, but for regular maintenance or modifications, QuickJacks are worth the investment.